Tucked away along the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, Villa Galeb in Igalo, Montenegro, is one of the most fascinating historical landmarks of the former Yugoslavia.
Built in 1976 as a private retreat for Josip Broz Tito, this exclusive villa wasn’t just a luxurious getaway—it also served as a rehabilitation center and a venue for high-profile diplomatic meetings.
Today, Villa Galeb is open to visitors, offering a rare glimpse into Tito’s personal life, Yugoslav history, and the villa’s secret underground bunker.
Photo: Katica Nišavić
Why Did Tito Choose Igalo? A Healing Destination
Tito personally selected Igalo as the location for Villa Galeb due to its world-famous therapeutic climate. The region’s mineral-rich waters and healing mud have been used for centuries, attracting visitors seeking medical treatments and relaxation. Even today, the Institute "Dr. Simo Milošević" in Igalo remains one of the leading wellness centers in the Balkans.
Tito visited Villa Galeb four times for rehabilitation, with his first stay in 1977. During his visits, he welcomed many world leaders.
Interestingly, Tito’s wife, Jovanka Broz, only visited once and never returned.
Photo: Katica Nišavić
Photo: Katica Nišavić
Villa Galeb: A Masterpiece of Yugoslav Architecture
Designed by Milorad Petijević, Villa Galeb was built in just six months, covering 5,500 square meters over four floors. The villa remains almost unchanged since 1976, making it a time capsule of Yugoslav history.
Photo: Institut “Dr Simo Milošević” A.D. Igalo
Photo: Institut “Dr Simo Milošević” A.D. Igalo
Inside Villa Galeb: Highlights You Can See Today
Tito’s Private Apartment – Features an extravagant Brazilian marble bathroom, made from one of the rarest and most expensive materials of the time. Only two tiles could be produced from one cubic meter of this luxurious stone!
Photo: Institut “Dr Simo Milošević” A.D. Igalo
Tito’s Personal Cinema – A part of the Congress Hall, used for diplomatic meetings and screening Western movies, Tito’s favorite genre.
Therapeutic Wellness Wing – Includes a pool and specialized treatment rooms using Igalo’s medicinal mud and mineral water.
Photo: Stanislav Zakić
The Fireplace Hall – A cozy lounge where Tito entertained his guests.
Photo: Katica Nišavić
Billiard Room – Another of Tito’s favorite pastimes, this room remains exactly as it was during his time.
Villa Galeb’s Secret Atomic Bunker
One of the villa’s most mysterious features is its hidden atomic shelter, built as a secure hideout for 40 people in case of war or emergency.
Unique Security Feature: At the entrance of the bunker, an aquarium was used to test water quality. Special fish were placed in the tank seven days before Tito’s arrival—if any died, the water supply was immediately shut off!
Photo: @living_l.i.f.e
Tito and the 1979 Montenegro Earthquake
Villa Galeb was at the center of a dramatic event when a devastating earthquake hit Montenegro in 1979.
Tito was inside the villa at the time, but instead of evacuating, he ordered a tent to be set up in the courtyard, where he stayed for several days.
Shaken by the destruction, he reportedly said:
"God forbid, this was truly a powerful shock! Is anyone injured? The building looks severely damaged..."
This was Tito’s last visit to Villa Galeb—he passed away the following year.
