Isabella Mueller Baroness of Stainton le Vale
Nestled in the dramatic landscape of Kotor in Montenegro lies an old village shrouded in mystery and intrigue—Gornji Stoliv. Although abandoned, this haunted hamlet has become a magnet for those seeking the paranormal, drawn to its eerie allure like moths to a flame.
Rich in centuries of history, Gornji Stoliv lies quietly across from the Bay of Kotor. Its crumbling stone houses and overgrown paths bear witness to a once-thriving community that has long been forgotten by time. At first glance, the village appears to be nothing more than a picturesque ruin. But behind its tranquil facade lies a dark, haunted soul.
Ancient legends cling to the remains of Gornji Stoliv like ivy to its weathered walls. Locals whisper stories of restless spirits wandering the deserted streets, their mournful wails breaking the silence of the night. These tales have endured for generations and capture the imagination of all who visit. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the eerie atmosphere that surrounds this abandoned settlement is undeniable.
One of the spookiest stories is that of the ill-fated Count Markov, a 16th-century nobleman whose lust for power drove him mad. Driven by greed, he sought the services of a powerful witch to curse his enemies. However, the witch’s revenge was a double-edged sword. Markov was tormented by the ghosts of his victims, whose hollow eyes followed him through the village. It is said that on stormy nights, his agonizing screams still echo through the ruins.
The village’s reputation as a haunted place is also reinforced by the unmarked graves scattered throughout the area. During the plague that ravaged Europe in the 17th century, Gornji Stoliv was not spared. The disease claimed the lives of countless villagers, whose bodies were hastily buried in makeshift graves to prevent further spread. It is believed that these souls, denied a proper rite and final resting place, wander aimlessly, trapped between worlds.
On certain nights, when the moon bathes the landscape in an otherworldly light, visitors report strange occurrences. Ghostly figures flit through the fog, and shadows move as if of their own accord. Eerie footsteps crunch across the gravel paths, even when no living soul is in sight. Some claim to have felt icy fingers on their skin, sending a shiver down their spine.
At the heart of the village stands an old church, now a mere skeleton of its former glory. Moss-covered stones and broken stained glass windows create a ghostly image, but it is the interior that evokes the greatest horror. Paranormal enthusiasts report sudden cold spells, whispers in forgotten languages, and the unsettling feeling of being watched. Many believe that the church is a gathering place for spirits, a meeting place for both benign and malevolent beings.
When delving deeper into the folklore, one cannot help but mention the stories about the so-called “demon’s drum.” According to legend, an untouchable relic is hidden in the village, a drum made from human skin. This eerie artifact, once used in dark rituals, is said to summon otherworldly powers when played. The sound of the drum is described as a heartbeat that grows louder and faster, captivating anyone who hears it. Those who dare to search for the drum often return empty-handed, if they return at all.
The village’s fearsome reputation is reinforced by modern reports that lend additional credence to the myths. Paranormal investigators have recorded unexplained electromagnetic disturbances with sophisticated equipment and captured ghostly apparitions on film. Audio recordings reveal disembodied voices calling names and uttering ominous warnings.
Even on the warmest summer nights, icy drafts seem to appear out of nowhere, as if the village itself breathes with ghostly life.
In addition, there is a fascinating story about a group of hikers who ventured into Gornji Stoliv but never reappeared. Local authorities combed the area and found only their abandoned equipment and a camera with disturbing footage. The last clip shows the setting sun over the bay before chaos breaks out—the camera shakes violently, screams pierce the air, then silence. The investigation yielded little in the way of answers, further cementing the village’s reputation as a cursed place best left undisturbed.
While Gornji Stoliv continues to attract the brave and curious, the ghostly whispers grow louder, warning those who dare to set foot within its shadowy confines to beware.
Whether you are a firm believer in the supernatural or a skeptic in search of thrills, the village offers an encounter with the unknown that lingers long after you leave its borders.
Indeed, Gornji Stoliv remains one of the most mysterious places in the Balkans, a mixture of historical mystery and ghostly fear. It beckons adventurers to unravel its secrets, but at the same time warns them to be careful lest they become another chapter in its ghostly lore.
