The Montenegrin “Kapa.”

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 29, Issue 36, 11 May 1917, Page 2

The Montenegrin “Kapa.”

The round cap, or “kapa,” worn by .Montenegrin soldiers is a history of their country in miniature. The people of Montenegro, indeed, have a saying that “kaka talks,” and they are not far wrong. It is the national head-dress for war, and it is the same for prince and peasant. In colour it is a vivid crimson, but it has a deep black border, which only leaves a small crown the foundation colour visible. The black border is a sign of mourning for the terrible battle of Kossovo, when the old Montenegrin and Serb empires were overthrown by the Turks and their armies annihilated. The red crown signifies ‘‘the field of blood" of the same great fight.

On the red crown, in one corner, are five semicircles in gold. These have a double significance. They symbolize first the five centuries that have elapsed since Kossovo was fought, and, secondly, the five colours of the rainbow, the sign of hope that one day the glories of the old Montenegrin empire will be restored. Furthermore, the different insignia of army rank are worn on the rim of the kapa, from the different combinations of crossed swords of the officer to the simple leaden star of the corporal. Also the Montenegrin soldier wears his medals, if he possesses any, on'the front of the cap, instead of on his tunic, as with the soldiers of all other nations.