Manastir Ostrog · Montenegro
Ostrog Monastery
A white monastery built straight into a vertical cliff, and Montenegro's most visited pilgrimage site.
Ostrog Monastery clings to the rock face of Ostroška Greda, high above the valley between Podgorica and Nikšić. Its gleaming white walls seem to grow out of the cliff itself, and the oldest churches are cut into caves in the rock.
It was founded in the early 17th century by Vasilije Jovanović, Metropolitan of Herzegovina, better known as St Basil of Ostrog. He died here in 1671, and his relics lie in the cave church of the Presentation in the Upper Monastery. The monastery took on its present look in 1923–1926, after a fire.
Ostrog is a place of pilgrimage for Orthodox, Catholic and Muslim visitors alike, and draws around a million people a year. Below the cliff, the Lower Monastery with its Church of the Holy Trinity, built in 1824, is where the walk up to the Upper Monastery begins.
Plan your visit
Photo: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 3.0 Visiting & dress code
Opening hours, free entry, what to wear, the relics of St Basil and the walk between the Lower and Upper Monastery.
Photo: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 3.0 Getting there
Driving times from Podgorica, Nikšić, Budva and Kotor, parking, the shuttle up the hill and public transport.
Photo: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 3.0 Day trips
Tours from Kotor, Budva and Podgorica that include Ostrog, from a half day to a full day with Durmitor and Tara Canyon.
Common questions
Is Ostrog Monastery free to visit?
Yes. Entry is free. Many visitors leave a donation or buy a candle. See visiting & dress code.
What should I wear?
Cover your shoulders and knees: long trousers or a long skirt, and a top with sleeves. Women may cover their hair. Wraps are usually available near the entrance to the Upper Monastery.
How long does a visit take?
Allow about two hours at the monastery, including the walk or shuttle between the Lower and Upper Monastery and time in the cave churches.
Can I visit from Kotor or Budva?
Yes, easily on a day trip with transfers, or by car in around one and a quarter hours from Budva. See day trips and getting there.