Podgorica is the capital of Montenegro, and the administrative and cultural center of the country. This picturesque city has always attracted the attention of travelers, and the development of the tourist industry has made it one of the most popular European resorts. Many years ago a small Roman settlement was located at the site of the city. If this place wasn’t so badly damaged not during World War II, Podgorica could have been proud of its historical heritage.
During the years of the war the city was literally wiped off the face of the earth, so the buildings, which can be seen today, were built in the second half of the 20th century. The locals have done their best, so nowadays Podgorica simply amazes visitors by grandeur of parks and squares, which surround beautiful tall buildings. The most ambitious architectural projects of the 21st century are Millennium Bridge and Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, which are located near the center. There is another monument, which will be interesting to travellers from Russia. In 2004, a sculpture of Vladimir Vysotsky was installed on one of the squares.
After a day full of sightseeing it’s so nice to walk along one of the beautiful parks of Podgornica or sit in a cozy restaurant; fans of shopping will surely get much fun in modern and large shopping malls.
One of the most beautiful architectural monuments in the city is the Winter Royal Palace located in an incredibly beautiful park. King Nikola I Mirkov Petrović-Njegoš ordered to build this magnificent palace in the late 19th century for his wife. Subsequently, the chic Empire-style palace became the favorite winter residence of the entire royal family. The garden surrounding the palace is of no less historical interest. It has preserved many fine sculptures, squares and decoration elements dating back more than 100 years.
The most visited cultural institution of Podgorica is the City Museum that was opened in 1950. The museum's extensive exposition is divided into four thematic zones where visitors can see unique historical, cultural, archaeological and ethnographic exhibits. One of the most valuable is considered to be a collection of ceramics that date back to the 3rd century BC. On the ground floor of the museum, there is a specially equipped room for temporary exhibitions.
In Podgorica, travelers can stroll along the largest square in Montenegro, which is called Republic Square. The country's largest square covering an area of 15,000 square meters is surrounded by wonderful alleys of palms and oaks. In the center of the square, you can see a beautiful fountain, which is decorated with artistic illumination when darkness falls. Around the square you can see many beautiful buildings: here is the National Library of Montenegro, as well as the Town Hall built in 1930.
In the heart of Podgorica's historical district, you can see the Clock Tower - another interesting symbol from the past. The exact date of construction of the tower is unknown. According to some historical data, it was erected at the turn of the 15-16 centuries. The height of this tower is about 15 meters, and it is one of the few city's historical landmarks, which have managed to survive during the war. The main feature of the tower is a big clock fixed on its facade, which has been working for more than 250 years.
Theater fans are strongly recommended to visit the Montenegrin National Theatre, which is currently housed in a beautiful modern building. Every year, the country's main theater hosts performances of different styles and welcomes more than 50,000 visitors. 
Sightseeing in Montenegro: things to see
Continue your observation of the country with a visit to the Mount Lovcen. The mountain is located in the territory of a national park. This is not only a great place to enjoy beautiful nature as there are several important historical landmarks in the area. The Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, the great Montenegrin philosopher and politician, is also quite an interesting place. One of buildings in Lovcen was built by his initiative. This is a church named after St. Peter of Cetinje. During the observation of religious landmarks you will see beautiful nature in its splendour - amazing green pastures, fields and forests. Lovcen is distinguished by a peaceful atmosphere of relaxation and harmony.
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