Montenegro History, Language and Culture

Montenegro's history is a rich tapestry woven with tales of resilience and independence. Its name, meaning "Black Mountain," was first recorded in the 15th century, but the region's story stretches back to ancient times when it was inhabited by Illyrian tribes. The area later became part of the Roman Empire, followed by Byzantine and Slavic rule.

During the medieval period, Montenegro emerged as the principality of Zeta, gradually gaining autonomy from the Byzantine Empire. By the late 15th century, as much of the Balkans fell under Ottoman rule, Montenegro maintained a unique status, governed by prince-bishops (vladikas) who led both the church and state, preserving its independence through a mix of diplomacy and fierce resistance.

In 1878, the Berlin Congress formally recognised Montenegro as an independent nation, one of the few Balkan states to avoid Ottoman occupation. Following World War I, Montenegro was controversially absorbed into the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, later becoming part of socialist Yugoslavia after World War II.

Montenegro remained in a federation with Serbia until 2006, when it held a historic referendum, peacefully re-establishing its status as an independent nation. In 2017, Montenegro joined NATO, and it continues to progress toward European Union membership. Throughout its history, Montenegro has balanced its mountainous traditions with an openness to the world, creating a unique cultural and historical identity.

Did you know?

• Montenegro uses the Euro (€) as its official currency, despite not being a member of the Eurozone or the European Union. It has no formal agreement with the European Central Bank and does not mint its own Euro coins or print banknotes.

• Brad Pitt's first leading role was in the 1988 film "The Dark Side of the Sun", which was filmed in Montenegro, particularly around Kotor and Ulcinj. The film's release was delayed until 1997 due to the Yugoslav Wars.

• Near the coastal town of Bar, Montenegro is home to one of the oldest olive trees in the world. The Stara Maslina (Old Olive Tree) is estimated to be over 2,000 years old and still produces olives today.