Tucked away on the scenic Adriatic coast of Montenegro lies a timeless legend that continues to stir the imagination of locals and travelers alike — the story of Tre Sorelle, or Three Sisters. This poignant tale is woven into the cultural fabric of the Bay of Kotor and immortalized by a striking stone house in the coastal town of Prčanj. Its windows still face the sea, eternally watching and waiting, just like the women from whom the legend takes its name.
The Story Behind the Name
According to local folklore, the tale begins centuries ago, in a quiet seaside village where three sisters lived. They were known not only for their beauty but for their deep, unbreakable bond. All three fell in love with the same man — a handsome, charming sailor who regularly visited the bay during his travels. The sailor, unaware of their shared affection, found himself growing fond of all three women, enjoying their company, hospitality, and devotion.
In time, the sailor had to choose, and eventually, he fell in love with the youngest sister. They promised each other their hearts before he set out on his final voyage, vowing to return and marry her. Heartbroken but noble, the two older sisters did not object. They loved both their sister and the man, and respected the decision with quiet sorrow.
The sisters continued to live together in a house by the sea, waiting for the sailor’s return. Days turned into months, and months into years. The sisters, dressed always in black, kept vigil at the windows overlooking the bay, watching every ship that passed. But the sailor never came back — lost, perhaps, to the sea he once adored.
Heartbroken and aged by grief, the sisters passed away one by one, each at her window, still waiting. Locals say that their house remains in Prčanj, known as the Tre Sorelle House, and that their spirit still lingers, forever facing the sea.
A House with Three Windows
What makes this legend even more captivating is the physical house that inspired or was inspired by it — an old stone home with three identical windows facing the Bay of Kotor. It is said that each window belonged to one sister, and that even today, you can almost feel the longing in the air when you pass by.
Some claim that at dusk, when the sun dips into the Adriatic, shadows of three women can be seen in the windows. Others say the house is a symbol of loyalty, sacrifice, and unshakable love — a piece of Montenegro’s soul carved in stone.
Why the Legend Still Resonates
The Tre Sorelle legend is more than a romantic ghost story — it reflects the strong values of Montenegrin coastal culture: loyalty to family, deep emotional ties to the sea, and a sense of waiting that comes from generations of lives shaped by maritime journeys. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has loved deeply, waited in hope, or lost someone to the unknown.
How to Visit Tre Sorelle
If you find yourself exploring the Bay of Kotor, be sure to stop by Prčanj, a peaceful village only a few kilometers from Kotor. The house of Tre Sorelle is easily recognized, and many locals will gladly point it out to curious visitors. While it’s a private residence, its tale is open to everyone — etched in local memory and whispered in sea breezes.
The legend of Tre Sorelle is not just part of Montenegro’s folklore — it’s a haunting love story that captures the beauty, melancholy, and mystery of this extraordinary coastline. For first-time visitors, it offers a deeper connection to the land and its people — one that lingers long after the journey ends.
Discovering Prčanj: A Hidden Gem on the Adriatic
Prčanj is a charming coastal village nestled along the shores of the Bay of Kotor, known for its peaceful atmosphere, historic architecture, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea. With its stone houses, narrow streets, and centuries-old churches, Prčanj offers a serene escape from the crowds, perfect for travelers seeking authenticity and quiet beauty.
This village has a rich maritime history — many of its residents were once skilled seafarers and captains, and traces of that legacy are still visible in the elegant facades and baroque buildings. The most famous architectural landmark is the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, one of the largest churches in the area, built over 120 years.
How to Get There
Prčanj is conveniently located just 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles) from Tivat Airport, making it easily accessible for international visitors. The drive takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes by car, following the scenic coastal road that hugs the bay.
Whether you're arriving for the legend of Tre Sorelle, the natural beauty, or simply the peaceful Adriatic charm, Prčanj is a destination that captures the heart — and holds onto it.
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