Boka

Boka, commonly Boka Kotorska, refers to the Bay of Kotor, a winding inlet along the Adriatic coast in southwestern Montenegro. The bay is set between limestone mountains and opens to the Adriatic Sea, running roughly 28 kilometers from the town of Herceg Novi in the north to the Luštica peninsula in the south. Coastal towns along the bay include Kotor, Tivat, Perast, and Budva. The landscape is characterized by steep cliffs, historic forts, and sheltered harbors that have supported maritime activity for centuries.

Historically, Boka has been a strategic maritime route linking the interiors of the Balkan peninsula with the broader Mediterranean. In the Middle Ages the area came under Venetian influence, and many coastal settlements retain Austro-Hungarian and Venetian architectural elements. The old town of Kotor, with its stone walls and cathedral, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major draw for visitors.

In modern times, the Bay of Kotor is a major tourism and nautical center. It attracts cruise ships, sailing enthusiasts, and travelers seeking medieval towns, scenic fjord-like scenery, and coastal culture. The region supports fishing, marinas, and limited industry, while conservation efforts aim to preserve its natural and cultural heritage.

Boka also appears as a toponym or surname in South Slavic communities, and is used in some languages to name places or people associated with the area.