Introduction to Montenegro

Book excerpt: Montenegro is a small country in southeastern Europe, bordered by Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, Albania, and the Adriatic Sea. It gained independence in 2006 from Serbia and has a population of about 620,029 people. Its official language is Montenegrin, which is closely related to Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian. Serbia had ruled Montenegro for over 88 years before its independence, but its history can be traced back to the Illyrians, an ancient Indo-European people who inhabited the western Balkans. Montenegro has a diverse landscape with mountains, lakes, and beaches, making it a popular tourist destination. Montenegro is a member of the United Nations and NATO’s Partnership for Peace program, but it is not an official member of the European Union. The country’s economy relies on tourism and energy production, with significant investment from foreign companies. The country has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild winters. Montenegro is known for its beautiful beaches along the Adriatic coast and its medieval towns, such as Kotor and Budva, which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The country is also home to several national parks, including Durmitor and Biogradska Gora, which offer visitors the opportunity to hike, ski, and experience the country's natural beauty.