King Nikola’s Castle
King Nikola’s Castle, originally built in 1885 and later expanded, is a historic museum in Bar, Montenegro, showcasing the cultural and architectural legacy of King Nikola I Petrović’s reign. It features Mediterranean gardens, hosts cultural events, and includes unique elements like a former wooden floodgate for royal yachts.
Historical Significance and Architecture
Today, King Nikola’s Castle serves as a museum building that testifies to the Montenegrin state under King Nikola I Petrović. It highlights the importance placed on contemporary social, cultural, and architectural trends of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Built by Prince Petar Karadjordjevic, Nikola’s brother-in-law, in 1885, the castle was purchased by Nikola that same year. The complex includes a small castle, chapels, sentry boxes, and winter gardens. In 1919, a spacious ball saloon was added, enhancing its grandeur.
The castle is situated in a Mediterranean park rich with marvelous vegetation. This setting makes it extraordinary. Consequently, the complex is now used for the cultural necessities of Bar. King Nikola’s Castle also functions as a Homeland museum. In its saloons, special literary evenings, musical concerts, festivals, happenings, and art exhibitions take place regularly.
Unique Features and Royal Legacy
Located next to the seashore, King Nikola’s Castle once had a wooden floodgate for docking ships. King Nikola owned 10 yachts, adding to its maritime significance. Moreover, it is interesting to note that he bought the famous yacht “Sibil” from the novelist Jules Verne. His last yacht, “Rumija,” was sank by the Austro-Hungarian navy in 1915 in today’s aquatorium.
Nearby, there is a flower house made of non-corrosive construction. It was a gift from Italian King Emanuel. Today, this structure stands as the representative resort compound better known as “Prince’s Garden.”