Kotor is a historic city located at the tip of the fjord of Boka Kotorska (Bay of Kotor) in the south part of north coast of the Adriatic Sea in Montenegro (Serbia and Montenegro).

It was founded by the ancient Romans and throughout history served as an important port and commercial and artistic center. It reached its golden era in the period of sail boat when it hosted navel academy and its captaines managed a strong merchant fleet. 

Introduction of steam boats causes decline of sail boat era. Kotor and other cities (Perast, Risan) lost its prestige, but saved beauty of old historical place.

It has several raises and declines in the past. The most recent destraction happened during the earthquake which struck the region of Kotor in 1979.

For its historical value and beauty it features on the UNESCO list of international cultural heritage.

The old city has been part rebuilt after the earthquake, but for various reasons its urban water infrastructure failed to meet the needs of a modern tourist place and important cultural centre it deserves.

The following urban water problems are present:
- inadequate roof drainage (storm water (drops and jets) flow down the fasades of historical buildings causing damage and deteoriation)
- shortage of drinking water in summer season
- incomplete (unfinished) waste water system (waste water disposed directly in the fjord carring pollution and threat to marine life)
- ground waters intercepted by "modern" underground "utility galleries" causing frequent floods by ground waters during heavy storms
- inadequate surface drainage
- sea water raise during strong winds causing flooding in coastal parts
- lack of awareness and fundings
- loss of attractivity and revenue from tourism because of the above problems

IRTCUD/CUW Network aims at creating consortium for tackling urban water related programmes and providing conditions for protection and management of cultural heritage and development of sustrainable tourism.

Though some of the problems are dealt with the ongoing action, CUW/CUD network has initiated a project aimed at South East European countries          helping the municipality of Kotor to remediate some of the problems which require a "refined touch".

We are calling the interatnational aid agencies, charities and cultural heritage foundations to contact us and to join forces for tackling some of the problems. Joining researches actions could be linked to the ongoing activities of the NGO Expeditio in which young activities and environmentalist are providing their contributions.

Click here if you wish to:
·  learn more
·  initiate a joint action (possibly leading to future projects)
·  provide funding
· provide a kind support
· direct us to possible additional sources