It is about the Church of Our Lady of Health (also known as Our Lady of Rest), one of the most recognizable sights of Kotor and Boka Kotorska. In the photo, you can clearly see its impressive stone bell tower with a dome, located on the steep slopes of the Sveti Ivan (St. Ivan/San Giovanni) hill, from where there is a magnificent view of the Bay of Kotor and the Old Town. Here are the key details about this shrine: History and testament: The church dates back to the 15th century (it was built around 1518). It was built as a votive church at a time when the plague was ravaging Kotor and the region. The citizens of Kotor built it as a sign of gratitude to the Virgin Mary for protection and salvation from infectious diseases, which is why it is called the Lady of Health. The name "Our Lady of Rest": Since it is located approximately halfway (at about 520 steps) on the way up from the Old Town to the fortress of San Giovanni, pilgrims and travelers have stopped and rested at this place for centuries, so the name of the Lady of Rest has remained in the people. Architecture: The church is of modest dimensions, built of hewn stone. The front facade is decorated with a belfry on a horseshoe with a cupola on top and a cross, while in front of the entrance there is an open porch (porch in front of the entrance). In the interior, there is a marble altar, which is the work of the Venetian sculptor Bernardo Tabacco from the 18th century. Symbol of Kotor: The church and its bell tower are an essential point for all visitors who climb up to the fortress of San Giovanni and one of the most photographed motifs of Boka Kotorska.
