Montenegro is a country with a rich history and magnificent natural landscapes that attracts the attention of tourists and investors from all over the world. In previous articles we have already covered the topics tax system, investment opportunities, legalization of real estate и Montenegro's progress towards EU membership. Of course, it was worth starting with the name of the country, its origin and a brief history. Let's correct ourselves and in this article we tell a little more about the country that is dear to our hearts.
Where did the name Montenegro come from?
The name Montenegro (Montenegro in Italian) comes from the Venetian expression “monte negro”, which translates as “black mountain”. This name first appeared in the chronicles of the Venetian Republic in the 14th century and was used to describe mountainous regions covered with dense forests that, from a distance, appeared dark and gloomy. This impressive view made a strong impression on the Venetian sailors, who gave the country its current name.
What happened in these black mountains?
Historical traces of early human settlements in Montenegro date back more than 180 years ago. The first reliable idea of the ethnic composition of these early settlers dates back to the Early Bronze Age (000-2000 BC). Archaeological finds show that the Illyrians called this country their home. In the early Iron Age (1500-1000 BC), the Illyrians created a tribal network, which over time developed into a full-fledged state in Montenegro.
The Illyrian state did not last long. After its decline, the Romans began to migrate to the region, leading to a process of Romanization during which Illyrian tribes adopted Roman customs. This cultural synthesis was especially intense in the 3rd-4th centuries.
When the Roman Empire split into Eastern and Western, modern Montenegro became part of the Eastern Roman Empire, which later became known as the Byzantine Empire. However, in the 6th century, the Slavs began to populate this territory, and by the 7th century, the ancestors of the Montenegrins were already mixing with the Illyrian-Roman population in the Dokleja region, which was located near Lake Skadar, in the area of the current capital Podgorica.
In 1042, Montenegro gained independence, and in 1077 it became a kingdom, one of the first independent states in the Balkans. Doclea received a new name - Zeta. In the XNUMXth century, the Balsic and Cernojevic dynasties made Zeta an independent feudal state, but with the arrival of the Ottomans, the Cernojevic dynasty moved its capital to the city of Cetinje, which is now called the Royal Capital of Cetinje.
Montenegro lost its independence in 1496 when it was conquered by the Ottomans. In subsequent centuries, Montenegro gradually became stronger, and its tribes developed into independent communities. In the XNUMXth century, the metropolitans of Montenegro became important political figures.
In 1697, the Petrovic-Njegosi dynasty began to rule Montenegro, and their rule lasted until 1918. Despite their numerical superiority, the Montenegrins managed to win important victories over the Ottomans at the battles of Martinići and Krusi (1796) and Grahovac (1858).
In the 20th century, Montenegro experienced many changes. After World War I, it lost its independence and became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, which was later renamed the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. During World War II, Montenegro actively resisted the Italian occupation, which led to significant losses and destruction.
After the war, Montenegro became one of six equal republics within the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. During this period, the country received significant investment in infrastructure and industry, which contributed to its economic development.
After the collapse of Yugoslavia in 1992, Montenegro formed a union with Serbia, which lasted until 2006. This year a referendum was held in which 55,5% of voters voted for the independence of Montenegro. On June 3, 2006, Montenegro officially became an independent state. In 2017, the country joined NATO, which strengthened its international position.
The history of Montenegro is a story of survival and adaptation. Despite all its challenges, this country has become a unique combination of ancient heritage and modern charm.
