On March 8, 2025, our group Starlight embarked on an exciting walk through the picturesque city of Ulcinj, located in southern Montenegro. We visited the city’s famous beaches, enjoyed the local landscapes, and immersed ourselves in the rich history of this ancient place.
Beaches of Ulcinj
Ulcinj is famous for its diverse beaches, each of which has its own unique features and charm.
Mala Plaža (Small Beach)
Located in the city center, Mala Plaža stretches 360 meters and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Covered with soft sand, it has a gentle slope into the sea, making it an ideal destination for families with children. The water here has a stunning blue-green shade, and along the beach, there are numerous cafés and restaurants where visitors can enjoy local cuisine.
Ženska Plaža (Women’s Beach)
In a secluded bay between the Albatros and Galeb hotels, Women’s Beach is known for its healing properties. Sulfur springs flow from beneath the rocks, and the water, in combination with the sea, is believed to help in the treatment of female infertility. The beach is surrounded by a dense pine forest, creating a special atmosphere of privacy and tranquility.
Albatros Hotel Beaches
Near the Albatros Hotel, several small beaches are surrounded by pine forests. These rocky beaches are known for their clear, transparent waters and picturesque views. They are perfect for those looking for a quiet place to relax away from the city buzz.
One of the most interesting features of the beaches near Albatros Hotel is the nudist beach, which is considered one of the most famous on the southern Montenegrin coast. It is located in a small, secluded bay, surrounded by pine trees, providing natural shade and a pleasant pine aroma.
Velika Plaža (Great Beach)
Velika Plaža is the longest beach on the Adriatic coast, stretching about 13 kilometers with a width of up to 60 meters. Covered in fine dark sand, it is considered one of the best beaches for kitesurfing and windsurfing, thanks to constant winds and shallow waters. The developed infrastructure includes bars, restaurants, and water sports centers.
Historical Background of Ulcinj and the Old Town
Ulcinj is one of the oldest cities on the Adriatic coast, with a history spanning more than two thousand years. It was founded in the 5th century BC by Colchian settlers and was originally called Colchinium. The city has witnessed numerous civilizations and cultural transformations.
In the 3rd century BC, Apollonius of Rhodes mentioned the city in his works. In 163 BC, it was conquered by the Romans and renamed Olcinium. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the city became part of the Byzantine Empire. During the Middle Ages, Ulcinj was known as a “pirate stronghold” and the “slave trade capital” of the Adriatic Sea.
The Old Town of Ulcinj is a medieval fortress, located on a rocky peninsula and surrounded by massive walls. Its narrow streets reflect a blend of different historical periods, from antiquity to the Ottoman era. Some of the main landmarks include:
- The Balšić Tower,
- The former Catholic Cathedral of the Virgin Mary,
- The Archaeological and Ethnographic Museums, located in Kalaja Castle.
Modern Ulcinj: A City of Contrasts and Opportunities
Today, Ulcinj is a rapidly developing tourist hub in Montenegro, combining ancient history, Eastern influences, and modern resort amenities. With its unique location, mild climate, and expansive beaches, the city attracts thousands of tourists each year.
Economy and Tourism
Tourism is the driving force of Ulcinj’s economy. The city is expanding its hotel infrastructure, offering both luxury resorts and cozy family-run guesthouses. Recently, eco-resorts and glamping sites have become increasingly popular, drawing nature lovers and sustainable tourism enthusiasts.
Ulcinj is also known as a center for kitesurfing and windsurfing in Montenegro. Velika Plaža is particularly famous for its ideal wind conditions and shallow waters, making it a top destination for water sports enthusiasts.
Cultural Diversity and Traditions
Ulcinj is distinguished by its multicultural atmosphere. Over the centuries, it has been shaped by Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences. Today, the city is home to a mix of mosques, Catholic churches, and Orthodox temples, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.
Ulcinj’s cuisine also showcases its diverse influences, blending Balkan, Mediterranean, and Eastern flavors. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, local cheeses, and traditional
Political Landscape
Ulcinj serves as the administrative center of the Ulcinj Municipality. Politically, the city and region are characterized by stability and active civic engagement. Due to a significant Albanian population, local politics include parties and organizations that represent Albanian community interests, ensuring the recognition of cultural and social diversity in the region.
Population and Mentality
As of the 2019 census, the population of Ulcinj Municipality was 20,290 people. The ethnic composition is diverse:
- Albanians: ~70% of the population
- Montenegrins: ~12%
- Serbs: ~7.5%
The religious distribution is as follows:
- Islam: ~80%
- Orthodox Christianity: ~10%
- Catholicism: ~10%
The centuries-long coexistence of different ethnic and religious groups has shaped a unique mentality in Ulcinj, characterized by:
- Tolerance and respect for different cultures and traditions.
- Hospitality, as the locals are known for their warmth and openness to visitors.
- Strong family and community ties, emphasizing the importance of family values and collective support.
Ulcinj’s rich cultural heritage, influenced by various civilizations, is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions, making it one of the most unique places on the Adriatic coast.
Our journey through Ulcinj allowed us to experience not only its beautiful beaches but also to immerse ourselves in the deep history of this remarkable city, where cultures and traditions from different nations intertwine.
