Herceg Novi and Ulcinj celebrated Europe Day with the cultural event “Night of Fortresses,” organized with the support of the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro through the initiative “Municipalities for the EU.”
In Herceg Novi, the program began with an educational lecture on the fortification heritage at the Forte Mare fortress, where archaeologist Željko Starčević presented to primary and secondary school students the importance of local fortifications, their historical value, and their role in contemporary cultural flows.
The evening program at Forte Mare included performances by medieval knights, presentations of local crafts and culinary specialties, and a concert by the Alt Capella ensemble, performing Renaissance music on authentic instruments.
“The fortresses, which form the backbone of the Old Town, as well as Arza, Mamula, the fortresses on Rosa, and many others, represent important historical symbols of the city, bearing witness to the past as they date from the times of Ottoman, Venetian, Spanish, French, or Austro-Hungarian rule. Today, they are architectural monuments, meeting places for artists, venues for cultural events, an indispensable part of the tourist offer, and a cultural heritage we are proud of,” said Stevan Katić, Mayor of Herceg Novi, opening the event.
Laura Zampeti, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union to Montenegro, stated that Montenegro has made a long journey on its path to EU accession, and that the accession negotiations are now entering their final – and most demanding – phase.
“This is a critical moment, when the country needs the contribution and support of local authorities and communities to move forward in the same direction. Every bit of energy is needed, and this celebration will also help,” said Zampeti.
In Ulcinj, the event was opened by Mayor Genci Nimanbegu, and the Austrian Ambassador to Montenegro, H.E. Christian Steiner, also addressed the attendees.
“Today we all celebrate the victory over fascism. It is always necessary to remember that antifascist values, high moral and human values, should unite Europe on this day,” said Nimanbegu.
Ambassador Steiner emphasized that the European Union is a project of peace, values, politics, economy, and solidarity.
“European projects are present in all municipalities of Montenegro, including Ulcinj. Investments are very important, and of course it is necessary that investments are implemented in a transparent way for the local population,” added Ambassador Steiner.
The event took place at the archaeological site of Šas, where an information point was also opened, which will serve as a future informational spot for all visitors.
“Night of Fortresses – Goes Green” this year was organized simultaneously in ten European countries, at a total of 72 locations, six of which are in Montenegro.
