Kotor Cathedral
Montenegro·Kotor·Kotor
The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in Kotor, Montenegro, is a significant Roman Catholic cathedral and the seat of the Diocese of Kotor. Built on the site of an earlier church, it was consecrated in 1166 and is dedicated to Saint Tryphon, the patron saint and protector of the city, whose relics were brought from Constantinople. The cathedral is one of the largest and most ornate buildings in Kotor, showcasing Romanesque architecture and housing a valuable treasury.
Key Facts
- ›Consecrated on June 19, 1166.
- ›Dedicated to Saint Tryphon, the patron saint of Kotor.
- ›Houses frescoes from the 14th century and a stone ornament depicting the life of Saint Tryphon.
- ›Suffered significant damage from the 1667 Dubrovnik earthquake and the 1979 Montenegro earthquake, requiring extensive restoration.
- ›Contains a treasury with valuable artifacts, including a silver hand and cross.
Romanesque
Saint Tryphon
Remains of Saint Tryphon
About Kotor Cathedral
Cathedral of Saint Tryphon
The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, located in the historic city of Kotor, Montenegro, stands as a prominent Roman Catholic cathedral and serves as the episcopal see for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kotor. This diocese encompasses the entirety of the Bay of Kotor and the Municipality of Budva. The cathedral's construction was initiated on the site of an earlier church, which had been established in 809 to house the relics of Saint Tryphon, brought from Constantinople. The current structure was consecrated on June 19, 1166.
History and Architecture
Considered one of the largest and most ornate buildings in Kotor, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon is primarily recognized for its Romanesque architecture. It has endured significant damage throughout its history, notably from the 1667 Dubrovnik earthquake and the devastating 1979 Montenegro earthquake. While initial rebuilding efforts after the 1667 quake were hampered by insufficient funds, extensive and careful restoration of its interior was undertaken following the 1979 tremors, with a major renovation blessing in 2000. The cathedral predates many famous churches and cathedrals across Europe and is noted for its rich collection of artifacts.
Treasury and Significance
The interior of the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon is adorned with frescoes dating back to the 14th century. Above the main altar, a stone ornament vividly depicts the life of Saint Tryphon, complemented by reliefs of saints rendered in gold and silver. The cathedral's treasury contains a valuable collection of art objects, including a silver hand and a cross embellished with intricate ornaments and figures. Formerly serving as the City Hall, the cathedral is now Kotor's most recognized tourist attraction and a potent symbol of the city, with Saint Tryphon himself depicted in Kotor's coat of arms alongside a lion and Mount San Giovanni.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full name of the cathedral in Kotor?
The full name of the cathedral is the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. It is also known locally as Katedrala Svetog Tripuna.
When was the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon consecrated?
The cathedral was consecrated on June 19, 1166. This date marks a significant milestone in its long history.
What is the significance of Saint Tryphon to the cathedral and city?
Saint Tryphon is the patron and protector of the city of Kotor. The cathedral was built in his honor on the site where his remains were kept after being brought from Constantinople.
Has the cathedral undergone renovations?
Yes, the cathedral has undergone significant renovations. It was rebuilt after being damaged by the 1667 Dubrovnik earthquake and was extensively restored after the 1979 Montenegro earthquake, with a major renovation completed in 2000.
What notable features or relics are found inside the cathedral?
Inside, the cathedral features frescoes from the 14th century, a stone ornament depicting the life of Saint Tryphon above the main altar, and a relief of saints in gold and silver. It also possesses a treasury with valuable art objects.