Discover the Prokletije Mountains
Nestled at the junction of the Dinarides and Shar Mountain systems, the Prokletije Mountains span the borders of Montenegro, Kosovo, and Albania. Covering over 3500 square kilometers and extending around 650 kilometers in length, Prokletije is one of the most intricate, inaccessible, yet breathtaking mountainous regions in the Balkan Peninsula. This area boasts over 40 intertwining mountain wreaths that fill the space between the Zeta basin in the south, the Drin meadow in the east, the Metohija basin in the north, and the Plav-Gusinje basin and the upper Iber River meadow in the west.
A Wilderness that Instills Awe
Jovan Cvijić, a renowned geographer, described the Prokletije Mountains in 1913 as a wilderness that instills anxiety and fear. Ami Boué, an Austrian geologist, was the first European explorer to visit this area and dubbed it the “Alps of Southern Europe.” The rugged landscapes, wild and almost inaccessible nature, along with the sharp and jagged peaks, earned Prokletije its name, reflecting the harshness of this massif and the tough life of the people living nearby. However, the initial intimidating impressions quickly transform into admiration for the natural beauty of this area, which boasts stunning lakes, pastures, and forests.
Natural Beauty and Adventure Await
The Prokletije Mountains’ border position and relatively poor traffic connections with the surrounding areas have preserved its status as an interesting and inexhaustible source of exploration of unspoiled nature. This region is particularly attractive to nature lovers, mountaineers, hikers, and alpinists, that is, people with an adventurous spirit.
Bogićevica: The Heart of Prokletije
Bogićevica occupies a central place in this mountain massif, surrounded by neighboring high ridges, including the highest peak, Maja Jezerce, which rises to an altitude of 2694 meters in neighboring Albania. Moving south, the mountain ridges gradually transform into lower wreaths that constantly descend toward Lake Skadar. On the north side, the Prokletije Mountains massif splits into two distinct mountain ramparts that encompass the Metohija valley on three sides. The three highest peaks in the Prokletije massif in Montenegro include Zla Kolata (2534 meters), Maja Kolata (2528 meters), and Maja Rosit (2524 meters), along with Maja e Gjeravicës (2656 meters), Maja e Marjashit (2530 meters), and Maja e Ropës (2505 meters) in neighboring regions.
Glacial Legacy
The action of glaciers has significantly shaped the current appearance of the Prokletije Mountains. In the past, the largest glaciers moved from the central ridges of the Prokletije Mountains, the Vrmoša valleys, Grnčar, and the Plav-Gusinje basin. Today, there are no permanent glaciers in the Prokletije Mountains. However, the legacy of these glaciers remains evident, with the largest glacier, measuring 35 kilometers in length, ending where Lake Plav is located today – the largest glacial lake in the Balkans.
Embrace the Wild Splendor
The Prokletije Mountains are a testament to the untamed beauty of the Balkans. This region, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, offers an unparalleled opportunity for adventure and exploration. Whether you’re scaling its rugged peaks or simply basking in the serenity of its natural wonders, Prokletije promises a journey that will leave you in awe. Embrace the wild splendor and let the allure of the “Alps of Southern Europe” captivate your soul.
