Overview of Montenegro

Profile

Montenegro is blessed with magnificent scenery woven by steep karst mountains and azure Adriatic Sea, known for diverse resources including World Heritage Kotor Old Town and Durmitor National Park. Dissolved state union with Serbia and gained independence in 2006. Adopts euro unilaterally, restructuring economic framework centered on tourism and aluminum industries while pursuing EU membership. Despite population of just over 600,000, forms mosaic society mixing ethnicities, religions, and languages, reflecting Balkans' complex history.

Official name: Montenegro
Common name: Montenegro
Numeric code: 499
Alpha-3 code: MNE
Alpha-2 code: ME
Population: Approximately 620,000 (2023)
Population density: Approximately 46 people/km²
Primary languages: Montenegrin, Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian, Croatian
Major religions: Orthodox Church, Islam, Catholicism
National anthem: Oj, svijetla majska zoro (Oh, Bright Dawn of May)
Calling code: +382
Internet TLD: .me

History

Arose as medieval Principality of Zeta, gained independence from Ottoman Empire, then re-independence in 2006.

15th century establishment of Tsrna Gora Prince-Bishopric as church-led theocratic system, developed into Montenegro Principality in 19th century, later kingdom. After World War I, annexed by Serbia to become part of Yugoslavia. Maintained federal relations with Serbia even after socialist Yugoslavia's collapse, but decided independence through 2006 referendum. Promulgated new constitution in 2007, joined NATO in 2017, currently advancing EU accession negotiations.

Geography & climate

Karst terrain occupies most territory, steeply rising from narrow coastal plain along Adriatic Sea to Dinaric Alps exceeding 2000m altitude, with gorges, glacial lakes, and virgin forests scattered.

Mediterranean climate in coastal areas, mixed mountain/continental climate inland

Area: Europe / 13812 km²
Capital: Podgorica
Largest city: Podgorica
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lake Skadar, Black Lake (Crno Jezero)
Bordering countries: Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, Albania

Natural resources

Bauxite ore, Limestone, Copper, Quarry marble, Hydropower resources, Forest resources, Tourism resources, Fishery resources, Wind power, Peat soil, Fertile valley bottom soil, Underground spring water, Natural sea salt, Medicinal herbs, Coastal oil exploration potential

Politics

Government: Parliamentary republic

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): Approximately 7.7 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): Approximately 16.0 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Montenegrin, Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian, Croatian

Time zone: Central European Time, Central European Summer Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Montenegrins, Serbs, Bosniaks, Albanians, Roma, Croats

Life expectancy

Approximately 77.3 years

Literacy rate

98.7%

National sports

Football, Basketball, Handball, Water polo, Volleyball