Fact 1: The Smallest Military Force
Despite boasting an impressive coastline, a rugged mountain range, and a rich history, Montenegro has one of the smallest standing armies in the world, consisting of less than 2,000 active duty personnel. However, this miniature military still participates in NATO-led peacekeeping missions across the globe, evidencing the big heart of this small nation.
Fact 2: World's Second Largest Migratory Bird Habitat
Montenegro’s Lake Skadar is the largest lake in Southern Europe and is the second largest habitat in the world for migratory birds, with over 270 different species calling it home at various times throughout the year. This makes for a spectacular natural display and a birdwatcher's haven.
Fact 3: Land of Literally 'Black Mountain'
The name 'Montenegro' translates to 'Black Mountain'. The nation’s moniker comes from its dark, imposing, and dense forests that cover the terrain evoking images of the country’s majestic and dramatic mountain ranges.
Fact 4: Home to Europe's Deepest Canyon
Montenegro is home to Tara River Canyon, which is the deepest canyon in Europe with a depth of 1300 meters. Offering breath-taking views and adrenaline-pumping activities like white-water rafting, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Fact 5: A Country Without Military Service
Montenegro eliminated compulsory military service in 2006. This was part of the country's strategy to transform its military to meet the standards of NATO, which it joined in 2017.
Fact 6: Textbook Example of Mediterranean Climate
Montenegro is an illustrative example of the Mediterranean climate at its finest. This means it experiences hot, dry Summers and mild, rainy Winters, providing the perfect climate for growing grapes and olives – two of the country’s primary agricultural products.
Fact 7: The Youngest Country in Europe
Montenegro is Europe's youngest country, having declared independence from its union with Serbia on 3rd June 2006. Despite its youthful status, the nation's territory has a rich history dating back thousands of years.
Fact 8: Concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Despite its small size, Montenegro has two UNESCO World Heritage sites: The Bay of Kotor, renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and well-preserved Medieval layout, and Durmitor National Park, featuring majestic limestone peaks, glacial lakes, and 18km-long Tara River Canyon.
Fact 9: A Country of Religious Diversity
In Montenegro, the population practices a variety of religions. While the dominant religion is Eastern Orthodox, considerable portions of the population follow Islam, Catholic Christianity, and Atheism. This acceptance of religious diversity is a testament to the nation's historical influence and tolerance.
Fact 10: The Land of Five National Parks
Despite its small size, Montenegro features five national parks. Biogradska Gora is one of the oldest and largest unspoiled forests in Europe, while Lovćen, Durmitor, Skadar Lake, and Prokletije boast stunning landscapes of mountains, lakes, and forests.
Fact 11: Montenegro's Wallet-friendly Currency
Montenegro does not have its own currency. Instead, it uses the Euro, despite not being a member of the Eurozone. This decision was taken to stabilize the economy and attract investment, which has led to a steady increase in tourism.
Fact 12: Home to European Wild Beauty
Montenegro has often been described as the 'Pearl of the Mediterranean'. This is due to its unique blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, stunning nature, and providing some of the most breathtaking views in all of Europe.
Fact 13: Tourists Outnumber Locals
Montenegro has a unique distinction of hosting more tourists each year than its total population. In 2016, Montenegro counted a whopping 1.8 million tourists, nearly triple its population of roughly 620,000
Fact 14: Venetian Influence on Montenegro's Coastline
The beautiful Venetian fortifications on the adriatic coastline of Montenegro are a testament to its historic ties with the Venetian Republic. The cities of Budva, Herceg Novi, and Kotor exhibit distinctive Venetian architecture, giving you the feeling of walking back in time.
Fact 15: A Tiny Country with a Rich Biodiversity
Montenegro hosts a diverse range of flora and fauna. From brown bears and wolves tucked away in its northern mountains to the jewel-like Adriatic chromis fish that dwell in the depths of Adriatic sea; biodiversity in Montenegro is something to behold.
Fact 16: Land of Thousand Wineries
The land is blessed with fertile soil and a perfect climate for winemaking. With over a thousand registered vineyards, wine has become one of the significant agricultural outputs in Montenegro. There’s even a day devoted to wine, every 13th day of July!
Fact 17: The World's First Ecological State
In 1991, Montenegro was designated as the world's first ecological state. The constitution includes specifics about protecting nature and the environmental rights of the citizens. This showcases the country's dedication to preserving its pristine landscapes and vibrant biodiversity.
Fact 18: A Statue Honoring a Pop Icon
In the town of Podgorica, there is a statue dedicated to the late singer-songwriter Sergej Ćetković, who represented Montenegro in the 2014 Eurovision Song Contest. A testament to the importance of music and culture in Montenegrin society.
Fact 19: Ethnomusicology Lovers Rejoice
Montenegro boasts a unique traditional music culture. Its "gusle", a single-stringed instrument, is at the heart of national folklore. A guslar, or gusle player, often narrates stories of heroes and battles in his songs.
Fact 20: Montenegro – A Cat-Loving Nation
The town of Kotor in Montenegro is known for its large population of stray cats. The locals believe that these felines bring good luck and there is even a cat museum dedicated to celebrating these much-loved animals.