Ostrvo Cvijeća (Island of Flowers) | Tivat

Information

Landmark: Ostrvo Cvijeća (Island of Flowers)
City: Tivat
Country: Montenegro
Continent: Europe

Ostrvo Cvijeća (Island of Flowers), Tivat, Montenegro, Europe

Ostrvo Cvijeća, officially known as Miholjska Prevlaka, is a small island-peninsula located in the southeastern part of Tivat-bay_tivat" class="underline">Tivat Bay, near Tivat International Airport. It is connected to the mainland by a narrow concrete bridge and is a significant site for Orthodox religious heritage and coastal tourism.

Visual Characteristics

The island is approximately 300 meters long and 200 meters wide, characterized by dense Mediterranean vegetation, including palm trees, pines, and wild shrubs. The shoreline consists of small pebble beaches and rocky inlets. Dominating the center of the island are the ruins of a medieval monastery and a reconstructed church, built with local grey stone and red-tiled roofing.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located 2 kilometers south of Tivat city center. Access is via the road leading toward the Tivat Airport and the Brdišta settlement. It is reachable by car, and a small gravel parking area is available at the entrance to the bridge. Pedestrian access is unrestricted. There is no direct public bus service to the island, so taxis or private vehicles are required.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The island was the site of the Monastery of Archangel Michael, established in the 13th century as the first seat of the Zeta Metropolitanate. In 1452, the monastery was destroyed by the Venetians following a reported poisoning of the monks. During the Yugoslav period, the island was transformed into a military resort, leading to the construction of several small bungalows that remain on the site today in varying states of repair.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary highlight is the Monastery of Archangel Michael complex, where visitors can see the archaeological remains of the ancient basilica and the small, active Church of the Holy Trinity. The island’s perimeter offers secluded spots for swimming and sunbathing. Pilgrims often visit to venerate the relics of the 70 "Martyrs of Prevlaka" housed within the church.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The island has limited infrastructure. There is a small monastic shop selling religious items and honey. Public restrooms are located near the monastic complex. There are no large-scale commercial vendors or restaurants on the island, though several cafes are located on the mainland just before the bridge. 5G cellular coverage is functional but may fluctuate near the ruins.

Best Time to Visit

Morning visits are recommended for religious services and to explore the ruins in cooler temperatures. Photography is optimal in the late afternoon when the light illuminates the Tivat Bay and the surrounding mountains. The island is most peaceful during the shoulder seasons (May–June and September), as the former military resort area can become crowded with local bathers in July and August.

Facts & Legends

According to historical legend, 70 monks were poisoned with arsenic during a feast in 15th century by a local agent of the Venetian Republic to facilitate the seizure of the strategic island. Scientists have recently conducted exhumations that confirmed the presence of toxins in the remains found on-site. The island is technically no longer an island, as the narrow bridge and siltation have effectively turned it into a peninsula.