Sveti Stefan

Sveti Stefan, a charming town in Budva Municipality, Montenegro, is located roughly 6 kilometers southeast of Budva along the Adriatic coast. This little island, presently linked to the mainland by a slender tombolo, has a population of 364 inhabitants as per the 2011 census. The town’s distinctive landscape includes a 2-kilometer coastline located in the center region of Montenegro’s Adriatic seashore, situated between Pržno and Petrovac na Moru.

The island of Sveti Stefan spans 12,400 square meters and is famous for its pink sandy beaches, such as Miločer Beach and Queen’s Beach, which constitute its alluring coastline. The town’s appeal beyond its natural beauty, housing the esteemed Aman Sveti Stefan resort, a five-star establishment affiliated with the international Aman Resorts organization.

The history of Sveti Stefan is both rich and diverse, mirroring its geography. The earliest documentation of the town originates from its status as the capital of the Paštrovići settlement, which sought refuge from the Republic of Venice in 1423 due to apprehensions over a Turkish invasion. This union enabled the Paštrovići to preserve considerable autonomy while ensuring protection against external threats.

A captivating tradition, narrated by Stjepan Mitrov Ljubiša, describes the town’s construction being financed by the plunder from seized Turkish vessels during Barbarossa’s siege of Kotor in 1539. Nevertheless, the town experienced devastation soon thereafter during the Fourth Ottoman-Venetian War, subsequently being reconstructed in the 16th century due to the relentless appeals from the Paštrovići to the Venetian Republic.

Initially, the fortified island accommodated merely twelve families. By the 19th century, a prosperous village had been developed, housing approximately 400 inhabitants. The island’s strategic position rendered it a refuge for Adriatic pirates in the 15th century, contributing an intriguing chapter to its vibrant history.

The twentieth century introduced substantial transformations to Sveti Stefan. Villa Miločer was built as a vacation palace for Queen Marija Karađorđević of the Serbian Karađorđević family between 1934 and 1936. This villa, situated among 800 olive trees on a 32-hectare estate, was subsequently renovated as part of the Aman Sveti Stefan resort, which commenced operations in 2008-2009.

The island’s population experienced a decrease in the early 20th century, when inhabitants departed to enlist in the military or pursue chances elsewhere. The population declined from a maximum of 400 inhabitants in the 19th century to merely 20 by 1954. At this juncture, the Yugoslav government made a crucial decision to transform the island into a luxury hotel, transferring the remaining residents to the mainland. This makeover converted Sveti Stefan into a prestigious resort that drew prominent elites globally.

Currently, Sveti Stefan exemplifies Montenegro’s abundant cultural history and natural splendor. The town’s distinctive combination of historical importance and contemporary elegance has rendered it a coveted destination for travelers pursuing an exceptional Adriatic experience. The island’s pink sandy beaches, transparent waters, and appealing architecture form a captivating backdrop that consistently enchants visitors worldwide.

The Aman Sveti Stefan resort has been instrumental in maintaining the island’s identity while providing exceptional amenities. The resort’s dedication to preserving the genuine character of Sveti Stefan has guaranteed that the town’s historical and cultural importance endures, despite accommodating the requirements of contemporary luxury tourism.