Montenegro, a small yet captivating Balkan nation known for its stunning Adriatic coastline and rugged mountainous terrain, boasts a rich and intricate history that spans centuries. Often overshadowed by its larger neighbours, Montenegro’s turbulent relationships with these nations have been well-documented. However, as Montenegro continues to establish its identity as an independent state in the modern era, a return to its monarchical roots could provide a meaningful way to solidify national unity and foster a sense of pride.

The Montenegrin monarchy, with a royal lineage tracing back to the 17th century, has the potential to be a powerful symbol of transformation. The Petrović-Njegoš dynasty, under King Nikola I, led Montenegro to be formally recognised as an independent kingdom in 1910. A revival of this royal heritage could offer a profound way to strengthen Montenegro’s sense of national cohesion, paving the way for a future where tradition and modernity coalesce.
Following the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the creation of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia), Montenegro lost its sovereignty, becoming subsumed into this larger entity. The monarchy was subsequently abolished, and the royal family went into exile. However, the monarchy remained a powerful symbol of Montenegro’s independence and distinct cultural identity throughout the 20th century.
Montenegro reclaimed its independence in 2006 after a peaceful referendum, marking the end of its long-standing union with Serbia. Since then, the nation has worked to assert itself on the international stage, joining NATO in 2017 and striving for EU membership. Yet, like many post-Yugoslav states, Montenegro faces ongoing questions surrounding its national identity.

While Montenegro has its own language, cultural traditions, and history, it exists in a region where neighbouring states, particularly Serbia, exert significant influence over its internal politics and sense of identity. The Serbian Orthodox Church remains a powerful institution in Montenegro, often challenging the country’s aspirations for distinct nationhood. In this context, reinstating the monarchy as a symbolic institution could provide a unifying figurehead, transcending political divisions and emphasising the nation’s historical continuity.
The reintroduction of the monarchy would likely take the form of a constitutional monarchy, wherein the royal family assumes a ceremonial role, much like the monarchies of the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Spain. In such a system, the monarch would serve as a symbol of unity and the country’s historical legacy, while the political governance would remain firmly in the hands of democratically elected officials.
A restored monarchy could offer Montenegro a non-partisan emblem of national unity, particularly in times of political tension or crisis. Monarchs, by the nature of their position, often serve as enduring symbols of the state’s continuity, embodying values that resonate across generations and political divides.

Furthermore, the royal family, deeply rooted in Montenegro’s past, would provide a living connection to the nation’s historical narrative. Reclaiming this heritage could instil a stronger sense of national pride, reinforcing Montenegro’s political and cultural independence, especially in the face of external pressures.
Monarchies across the globe also play a significant role in attracting tourism, a vital sector of Montenegro’s economy. A restored Montenegrin monarchy, with its royal palaces, ceremonies, and rich history, could boost the country’s appeal as a tourist destination, particularly for those with an interest in European royal heritage.
However, the reinstatement of the monarchy in Montenegro would not come without its challenges. The country remains politically divided, and any discussion of reviving the monarchy must be approached with caution to avoid exacerbating existing tensions, particularly with the Serbian Orthodox Church and pro-Serbian factions within the country. These sensitivities must be handled with great care and diplomacy.

Public opinion would be crucial in determining whether a monarchy could be reinstated. While many Montenegrins see the monarchy as an integral part of their national heritage, a referendum or broad political consensus would likely be necessary to ensure that such a move is both legitimate and widely supported. Ultimately, the will of the people must guide any changes to Montenegro’s political system.
For Montenegro, the re-establishment of the monarchy would not be about returning to the past but about reclaiming its unique historical identity within a modern framework. As the nation continues to carve out its place in the global community, the monarchy could serve as a potent symbol of unity, tradition, and continuity.
The current head of the Petrović-Njegoš family and the de jure King of Montenegro is Prince Nicholas. In 2011, legislation was passed granting Prince Nicholas a monthly stipend equivalent to that of the President of Montenegro, along with the use of several significant properties, including residences in Cetinje and Podgorica, the Petrović-Njegoš family home in Njeguši, and the use of the first floor of the former royal palace in Cetinje.
Additionally, the Montenegrin state committed to a €4.3 million payment to a charitable foundation administered by the royal family. This foundation supports cultural, humanitarian, and educational projects, reflecting the family’s continued role in promoting Montenegro’s heritage and contributing to its social development. Despite the monarchy’s abolition, the legislation recognises the royal family’s enduring symbolic importance in Montenegrin society.

The heir to the Montenegrin throne is His Royal Highness Prince Boris Petrović-Njegoš, Hereditary Prince of Montenegro and Grand Duke of Grahovo and Zeta. Born in 1980, Prince Boris represents the future of the Petrović-Njegoš dynasty, symbolising the potential continuation of Montenegro’s royal heritage into the modern era. In an age where national identity is of increasing importance, particularly in the face of globalisation and regional pressures, the restoration of Montenegro’s monarchy could offer its citizens a renewed sense of purpose and pride. By uniting its ancient traditions with a contemporary democratic framework, Montenegro could affirm its status as a sovereign nation, proud of its history and optimistic about its future.
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