Mamula Island | Herceg Novi

Mamula Island is a small, rocky island located at the entrance of the Bay of Kotor, in the Adriatic Sea, near the Montenegrin coast. It is part of the Herceg Novi Municipality and lies off the coast of the town of Herceg Novi. The island is notable for its historical significance, unique appearance, and intriguing past, including its use as a military base. Today, Mamula Island is a popular destination for visitors interested in history, natural beauty, and the surrounding marine environment.

Historical Significance

Fortress Construction: Mamula Island is best known for the Mamula Fortress, a 19th-century structure built by the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In 1853, the empire constructed the fortress under the command of Lazar Mamula, a Austrian admiral after whom the island is named. The purpose of the fortress was to defend the entrance to the Bay of Kotor from potential naval attacks. The design of the fortress was strategic, with a round shape, walls that blend into the island's rocky terrain, and several cannon positions.

World War II and Military Use: During World War II, the island’s fortress was used by the Italian Fascist forces as a prison camp for political prisoners and resistance fighters. After the war, it continued to be used by the Yugoslav military until the late 20th century. The remnants of this troubled history, along with its isolation, add to the island’s mystique and allure.

Prison and Detention Camp: During its time as a prison, Mamula Island was notorious for its harsh conditions. Prisoners were kept in the fortress, which lacked the facilities and amenities of a typical prison, making it a grim symbol of wartime repression.

Features of Mamula Island

Fortress Structure: The Mamula Fortress, built with stone walls and a circular shape, is the main feature of the island. It is positioned at the highest point of the island and has several dungeons, tunnels, and bunkers that offer an eerie glimpse into its past. The fortress is surrounded by walls that merge with the natural rocky landscape, making it blend almost seamlessly into the island’s environment.

Small Island: Mamula Island is relatively small, covering only about 0.1 square kilometers (10 hectares). The island is rocky, with sparse vegetation and limited natural shelter. Its isolation and rocky landscape add to its stark beauty, and it offers no direct access to the mainland, making it a secluded spot.

Wildlife and Flora: Despite its rocky appearance, Mamula Island is home to a variety of Mediterranean flora and some species of wildlife, such as birds and lizards. The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, making the island and its vicinity a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.

Tourism and Modern-Day Use

Fortress Tours: Today, Mamula Island is no longer a military base, and the fortress is open to tourists. Visitors can explore the fortress, wander through its tunnels, climb its watchtowers, and learn about its fascinating and dark history. The island is often visited as part of boat tours from nearby Herceg Novi, Kotor, or Tivat.

Access by Boat: Mamula Island is uninhabited and does not have regular transportation from the mainland. Visitors usually access the island by private boat or through organized tourist boats from nearby coastal towns. It is about a 15-minute boat ride from the town of Herceg Novi and is easily accessible from the coast of the Bay of Kotor.

Potential Development: In recent years, there have been discussions about transforming Mamula Island into a luxury resort or hotel complex, while maintaining the historical integrity of the fortress. Plans to develop the island have raised concerns about preserving the island’s natural and historical heritage. As of now, the island remains mostly undeveloped, preserving much of its historical character.

Nearby Attractions

Blue Cave: Mamula Island is close to the famous Blue Cave (Plava Špilja), located on the nearby Lustica Peninsula. The Blue Cave is a natural sea cave where sunlight refracts through the water, creating a stunning blue glow. It is a popular spot for swimming and boat trips, and can often be visited during a boat tour to Mamula Island.

Lustica Peninsula: The Lustica Peninsula, where Mamula Island is located, is known for its unspoiled nature, scenic beauty, and historic sites. The peninsula is dotted with traditional villages, olive groves, and tranquil beaches, such as Zanjic Beach, which is also a great spot for visitors.

Herceg Novi: The nearby town of Herceg Novi is full of historical landmarks, old fortresses, and churches. It also serves as the main access point for Mamula Island, making it a good base for exploring the region.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Mamula Island is during the spring and summer months (May to September) when the weather is warm, and the sea is perfect for swimming and diving. The summer months can get quite busy, especially with tourists heading to the island on boat tours, but it’s still relatively quiet compared to other major tourist spots in Montenegro.

Conclusion

Mamula Island is a unique destination that combines stunning natural beauty with a rich, though sometimes dark, history. The Mamula Fortress stands as a silent witness to the island’s military past, while its isolated location, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to other attractions like the Blue Cave make it an appealing stop for visitors. Whether you are interested in its historical significance, natural surroundings, or adventurous exploration, Mamula Island offers a fascinating experience for anyone visiting the Bay of Kotor region.