The walls on the outside may seem imposing, but the Old Town and people of Dubrovnik are resilient and welcoming. The pride of the Old Town is apparent in the lovingly restored buildings and monuments. The work continues today as we saw workmen on rooftops and statues and buildings surrounded with scaffolding. Our explorations took us through a myriad of narrow alleyways, up polished limestone steps, around the perimeter wall and, finally, to a shady table with a cold beverage. The photos accompanying this paragraph display the diversity of experiences from our day spent in Dubrovnik.
9/20/2024
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Sea Cloud
Kotorfjord, Montenegro
Sailing into Kotor, Montenegro is a breathtaking experience. As the ship glides through the narrow fjord-like Bay of Kotor, the towering mountains embrace the crystal-clear waters, creating a majestic natural amphitheater. The medieval town of Kotor slowly emerges, its ancient stone walls and red-tiled roofs a striking contrast against the lush green mountainsides. The air is filled with the scent of saltwater and pine trees, as the ship docks in the charming harbor. A short boat ride from Kotor leads to Gospa od Škrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks), a tiny, man-made island steeped in legend. The island, crowned by a beautiful Catholic church, is said to have been created by sailors who laid stones in the water to honor an icon of the Virgin Mary. The church’s interior dazzles with intricate paintings and silver votive plaques, each one a token of gratitude for answered prayers. Surrounding the island is the calm, sapphire sea, reflecting the sun’s rays and the grandeur of the surrounding mountains. Visiting Gospa od Škrpjela offers a serene, spiritual pause, enhancing the timeless beauty of Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor.
