Template:POTD/2020-06-05
Perast is an old town on the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. It is situated a few kilometres northwest of Kotor and is noted for its proximity to the islets of Saint George and Our Lady of the Rocks. Its history dates back to at least 1336, when it was the site of a small fishing village with a shipyard, but over time it became an important maritime centre. It prospered in the 16th century, when it was loyal to the Venetians at a time when the Republic of Venice and the Ottoman Empire were struggling for supremacy in the area. The wealthy merchants and sea captains built themselves grand palaces, mostly in the Baroque style, and there was a renowned naval college. Nowadays, the town relies on tourism for its income, and the number of residents has dwindled; it had a population of 274 at the last census.Photograph credit: Marcin Konsek