Perast, in Montenegro, may seem like a quiet coastal village today, but its history tells a story of remarkable courage, naval strength, and strategic importance. Positioned at a key point for monitoring access to the Bay of Kotor, Perast stood for centuries as a bastion against Ottoman attacks.
The Town the Ottomans Never Conquered
Unlike nearby towns such as Herceg Novi, which spent long periods under Ottoman rule, Perast managed to preserve its freedom. Thanks to a strong alliance with the Venetian Republic and the bravery of its local people, this small town never fell. The people of Perast were known for their role in defending the bay from naval invasions, standing as the first line of protection on the water.
The Perast Naval School: One of the Oldest in the Adriatic
In 1698, the famous Naval School of Perast was founded. It produced many skilled captains and seafarers, some of whom sailed across the entire Mediterranean and beyond. The school was so highly regarded that students came from other parts of the Adriatic to study there.
Honorary Guardians of the Flag of St. Mark
Recognizing Perast’s importance, the Venetian Republic granted it the honor of guarding the flag of St. Mark – a powerful symbol of trust and recognition. This privilege further solidified Perast’s role as a strategic and naval ally of Venice.
