Language 💬
Montenegro has a rich and diverse cultural heritage shaped by its history, geography, and a mix of influences from neighboring regions. Montenegrin culture is a unique blend of influences, and its diverse heritage is reflected in its art, music, cuisine, and traditions.
Before we go into the useful phrases, let us explain the broader context of languages in the region. During the last century and time of a bigger country called Yugoslavia, the official language was Serbo-Croatian, and around 25 million people spoke it. However, since the breakup (and it was bad, much worse than Angelina’s and Brad’s) “new” languages are formed. What’s important- all of us in Bosnia, Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro can speak and understand each other (less with people from Macedonia and Slovenia, but still manageable), what’s less important- they are called differently now.
The official language is Montenegrin, however, we prefer to call it the local language, as discussion if it’s Montenegrin or Serbian, is still warm. It is written in both the Latin and Cyrillic scripts.
Useful phrases 🇲🇪
Zdravo - Hello
Dobro jutro - Good morning
Dobar dan - Good afternoon
Dobro veče - Good evening
Doviđenja - Goodbye
Molim - Please
Hvala - Thank you
Da - Yes
Ne - No
Izvinite - Excuse me / I'm sorry
Govorite li engleski? - Do you speak English?
Koliko ovo košta? - How much does it cost?
Gdje je WC? - Where is the bathroom?
Trebam pomoć - I need help
Ne razumijem - I don't understand
Voda - Water
Hrana - Food
Živjeli! - Cheers! (when toasting)
Kako se zovete? - What is your name?
Zovem se [Your Name] - My name is [Your Name]
Ja sam iz [Your Country] - I am from [Your Country]
Želim još piva - I want more beer (very useful!)
Culture
Multicultural Influence: Montenegro's culture has been influenced by neighboring countries like Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Albania. The country's proximity to the Adriatic Sea and centuries-long ruling of the Venetian Republic enriched it with the Mediterranean, better said Italian, influences.
Religion: A vast majority of Montenegrins adhere to Eastern Orthodoxy, with the Serbian Orthodox Church being the dominant religious institution. There is also a significant Muslim population in certain regions, particularly in the south (Ulcinj, Bar) and in the Sandžak area.
Traditional Music and dance: Montenegro has a rich tradition of folk music, with various regional styles and instruments. The traditional Montenegrin music often includes vocal performances, gusle music (instrument that only has one string, reserved for epic songs, which tell tales of battle and triumph), or klapa singing (a form of acapella singing, more popular on the seaside).
Kolo or oro - Picture whirling circles of vibrantly clothed dancers, accompanied only by the thud of footsteps and the single voice of a young girl and boy singing an ululating melody.
Art and Craftsmanship: Montenegro has a strong tradition of arts and craftsmanship. Local artisans create intricate jewelry, textiles, and pottery. Icon painting is a notable traditional art form.
Dobrota lace is a unique technique of lacing, unlike any other found in the world! The Treasury of the Church of St. Eustahije in Dobrota keeps as many as 130 samples of authentic Middle Ages folk art pieces from the XIV century. Just 15 minutes walk from Nest!
Historical Sites: Montenegro is home to numerous historical sites, including ancient fortresses, monasteries, and medieval towns. The town of Kotor, with its well-preserved medieval architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Risan is the oldest settlement in the Bay of Kotor and was once the seat of Illyrian Queen Teuta. The Roman mosaics in Risan are the remnants of Villa Urbana, the house of a noble family from the 2nd century A.D. Bus will take you there in 20 minutes.
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