Montenegro is a special state on the Balkan Peninsula. It has been under the protectorate of other countries several times, which has affected the mentality of the locals. In particular, the official religion of Montenegro coexists peacefully with other denominations, there is religious tolerance. This was achieved by tolerance of other religions, while preserving their own traditions.
Content
Religious features
The predominant number of citizens of the country are believers. This is evidenced by the numerous temples, churches and their visits by locals. But Montenegrins never imposed their religion on others, did not violate the rights of other believers. Orthodoxy is now the official religion in the country. But with him the world coexists Catholic, Islamic and Jewish denominations, which profess other national groups.
Country features:
- About 62,000 people live here. Only 44% consider themselves Montenegrins. The rest are Serbs, Croats, Albanians, Turks.
- The official language is Montenegrin. But it is actually one of the dialects of Serbian.
- Black’s main religion is Orthodox Christianity.
The European policy of government and the state is to separate religions from worldly life. Leaders of religious communities cannot influence foreign and domestic policy. Extremism and human rights violations are severely suppressed. At the legislative level, the state provides material support to all communities, which is supported by the people of the country.
Major religions
Historically, most Montenegrins do not choose their own religion, but their parents do. Therefore, most of the population is Orthodox. But their view of religion differs from the traditional one, which is typical of the Balkan Peninsula. Other religions in Montenegro affect the main, the opposite process can be seen. It is considered normal in the state for Christian and Muslim neighbors to coexist and be friends peacefully.
Orthodoxy
About 70% of the local population adheres to the Orthodox religion. Therefore, it is unofficially recognized as the main religion of Montenegro. Orthodoxy unites many groups of nationalities. However, there are features that have arisen because of the history of the country. Information about them is important for vacationers and independent travelers.
Most of the population belongs to the Serbian Orthodox Diocese. It is recognized by other denominations and is considered canonical. Its traditions are closest to the classical Byzantine. There are small differences, but they do not affect religious rites.
The second branch is the Montenegrin Orthodox Church. It is based on Byzantine, but there are significant differences – services are conducted in Montenegrin, there are saints. Her flock is a little less canonical. Because of these differences, the country has never been at odds over which religion is Montenegro’s main religion.
Orthodox sights:
- Ostrog Monastery. It is cut by hand in the depths of the rock. The most famous Orthodox landmark of the state.
- Morača Monastery . Located in the mountains, is calm and peaceful.
- Cetinje Monastery. It is the second most popular in the country. Here is the right hand of John the Baptist.
Similar places of worship in the Orthodox faith in Montenegro are located throughout the country. Most offer free visits.
Catholicism
About 4% of Montenegrins hold Catholic views. In most cases, they are Serbs, Croats and Albanians. About 20% of them are indigenous Montenegrins. Therefore, this religion is supported at the state level in Montenegro. The parishioners do not influence domestic politics, but lead an active social life.
Catholic sights of Montenegro:
- St. Tryphon’s Cathedral. Located in Kotor , was built in 1166.
- Church of the Annunciation. Located in Tivat , built in the 17th century.
- Church of Our Lady in Perast .
- Church of the Holy Mother « in punta »in Budva .
These shrines, revered by the parishioners, are in good condition. They work, the admission of outsiders is possible while maintaining the appearance.
Islam
Islam is the second most important religion in Montenegro. 20% of the country’s population adheres to this religion. The peculiarity is tolerance for other beliefs, the flock is not aggressive, as in other states. That is why Muslims and Christians live in peace in this country. Conflicts or other signs of aggression are not observed.
Features of Islam in Montenegro:
- The main adherents are Serbs and Albanians, but about 20% are indigenous Montenegrins.
- There are mosques in all major cities of the state.
- People of different faiths congratulate each other on their religious holidays.
Muslims have played a significant role in the country’s self-determination. They are against unification with Orthodox Serbia. But this does not mean a split in statehood.
Judaism
The number of Jews in Montenegro is small, but their communities are strong, each with support. However, this religion has not yet been recognized as official in Montenegro. Several bills have been prepared, but it is unknown when they will be adopted. Traditionally, this religion is closed, the admission of non-believers to synagogues is limited.