St. John Church Budva
Historic Catholic church in Budva's Old Town, featuring a landmark bell tower and a striking modern mosaic altar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St. John Church Budva
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Catholic church in Budva's Old Town, featuring a landmark bell tower and a striking modern mosaic altar.
"A beautiful medieval church in the center of Budva old town, well worth a visit. Free entry!"
Free Entry! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy the beauty of St. John Church without any admission fee. A truly accessible historical site.
Photography Friendly :camera_with_flash:
Feel free to capture the church's interior and exterior. Respectful photography is welcomed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Bell Tower
Budva Old Town
Dominating the skyline, this 1867 tower offers panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the historic town.
Striking Glass Mosaic Altar
Inside the Church
A unique, modern 1970s glass mosaic altar provides a striking contrast to traditional church art.
Madonna of Budva Icon
Side Chapel
Venerated by both Catholic and Orthodox communities, this 12th-century icon is a significant religious artifact.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to St. John Church
Navigating Budva's Old Town
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy the beauty of St. John Church without any admission fee. A truly accessible historical site.
Photography Friendly :camera_with_flash:
Feel free to capture the church's interior and exterior. Respectful photography is welcomed.
Budva itinerary Suggestions July 16th.
Explore the Old Town :world_map:
The church is a gateway to Budva's charming Old Town. Wander its alleys after your visit.
Consider the Neighboring Church :church:
Many visitors find the Orthodox Church next door equally, if not more, visually stunning.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy the beauty of St. John Church without any admission fee. A truly accessible historical site.
Photography Friendly :camera_with_flash:
Feel free to capture the church's interior and exterior. Respectful photography is welcomed.
Explore the Old Town :world_map:
The church is a gateway to Budva's charming Old Town. Wander its alleys after your visit.
Consider the Neighboring Church :church:
Many visitors find the Orthodox Church next door equally, if not more, visually stunning.
Check Bell Tower Access :bell:
The bell tower offers great views, but check its specific opening hours before planning your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St. John Church for its free entry, historical significance, and the unique glass mosaic altar. The bell tower offers stunning views, and its central location in Budva's Old Town makes it easily accessible. Some note that the neighboring Orthodox Church is considered more visually impressive by many.
"Originally built during the 7th Century it served as a Cathedral until 1828 when the Diocese of Budva was abolished. Some reconstruction took place after the earthquake of 1667. The high tower was erected in 1867 and is the dominant feature of the old town. Church houses a very modern looking altar, a mural glass mosaic created in the 1970s."
Miles Macdonald
"Beautiful Medieval Church in the centre of Budva old town. Well worth a visit. Free entry."
Tim Husain
"Church of Saint John the Baptists is Budva's largest church built around the 12th century serving as a Catholic cathedral until 1828. Parts of it possibly date from as early as the 9th century, and the last earthquake revealed the foundations of an early Christian basilica beside it. A side chapel houses the Madonna of Budva – a 12th-century icon venerated by Catholic and Orthodox Budvans alike."
Kirk Belmont
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. John Church is located in the heart of Budva's Old Town. If you're arriving by car, be aware that parking within the Old Town is restricted. It's best to park in designated lots outside the walls and walk in. Taxis are also readily available to drop you near the Old Town entrance.
Yes, Budva's Old Town is very walkable. The streets are narrow and charming, making it a pleasant experience to stroll to St. John Church. Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be uneven.
There are several paid parking lots surrounding Budva's Old Town. These are the most convenient options for visitors arriving by car. From there, it's a short walk into the historic center where the church is located.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to St. John Church is completely free. You can visit and admire its architecture and interior without any cost.
The church is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's advisable to check locally or visit during daylight hours for the best experience. The bell tower may have separate, more limited hours.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside St. John Church. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of worshippers and the sacred nature of the site.
Information regarding an entrance fee for the bell tower is not consistently available, and it may be free or have a small charge. It's best to inquire on-site about access and any associated costs.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
The church features a striking, modern glass mosaic altar created in the 1970s, which is quite unique compared to traditional church art. It also houses the venerated 12th-century Madonna of Budva icon in a side chapel.
The bell tower, erected in 1867, offers commanding views over Budva's Old Town, the surrounding coastline, and the Adriatic Sea. It's a popular spot for photographers.
While it historically served as a cathedral, it is now a significant historical and religious site. It's still a place where services may be held, and it's revered by locals.
Originally built around the 12th century, it served as a Catholic cathedral until 1828. Parts may date back to the 9th century, and foundations of an early Christian basilica were discovered nearby. It underwent reconstruction after a 1667 earthquake.
St. John Church is Catholic, while the neighboring church is Orthodox. Many visitors note that the Orthodox Church is often considered more visually ornate and beautiful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage them to spot boats from the tower or look for interesting architectural details. The Old Town's narrow streets are also fun to explore, and the church's free entry means you can pop in without worrying about costs. Remember to keep voices low inside the church out of respect.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside, the modern glass mosaic altar provides a unique subject, contrasting with the ancient stone. Don't miss the chance to photograph the Madonna of Budva icon and the church's exterior, which looks particularly striking when illuminated at night. The surrounding Old Town alleys also offer charming backdrops.
⛪ Religious & History Buffs
Pay special attention to the Madonna of Budva icon, a revered artifact shared by both Catholic and Orthodox traditions, and the unique 1970s glass mosaic altar. The church's historical context within Budva's development is a compelling narrative for any history enthusiast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance and History
Recent discoveries, such as the foundations of an early Christian basilica found beside it, further underscore its deep historical roots. This layering of history makes St. John Church a fascinating site for those interested in medieval architecture and religious heritage. The church itself, while not overly ornate, possesses a quiet dignity and historical weight that draws visitors in.
Artistic Highlights: Mosaic and Icon
Adding to its spiritual and artistic significance is the Madonna of Budva icon, housed in a side chapel. This 12th-century icon is deeply venerated by both the Catholic and Orthodox communities in Budva, symbolizing a shared heritage and devotion. Its presence highlights the church's role as a place of spiritual importance for diverse groups within the city.
Experiencing the Bell Tower Views
Visitors often describe the climb as rewarding, with the expansive scenery providing a memorable perspective of the coastal city. While the tower itself is a historical structure, its primary draw is the sweeping landscape it unveils. Be sure to check the tower's specific opening hours, as they can differ from the church's main visiting times, to make the most of your experience.
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