Rovinj

Situated on the west coast of Istria, Rovinj is one of the most popular and most developed tourist resorts in Croatia. The old town is built on the island, which was only connected with the mainland in the 18th century. Known as one of the most picturesque and romantic towns on Mediterranean, over the last few decades Rovinj attracts a large number of tourists, most of them faithfully returning year after year. Why do they come back? Maybe it is the breath of past times felt as you walk around old town's cobbled narrow streets. Or is it maybe its 22 islands and islets, the mild Mediterranean climate, carefully designed parks, the tidiness of its streets, the friendliness of the local population or numerous and varied town events. Or all of it!

Rovinj manages to combine, in a very interesting way, its rich tradition with the modern times. As it is also an active fishing port, you can experience the atmosphere of a small fishing village, especially during the popular fishermen’s festivities or at one of the traditional taverns called Spacio (in the past, very popular among fishermen). On the other hand, the town has been developing an exquisite gastronomy and offers a high standard of tourist services in general.

The city at the foot of the Church of St. Euphemia is the favorite gathering place of artists from around the world. Walking down its streets, you'll bump into many art galleries and studios, whilst once a year, in August, you have the possibility to attend the largest open-air exhibition of the Adriatic coast, which takes place in one of the main old-town streets - Grisia.

It is almost impossible to list all Rovinj's attractions, so we suggest visiting it and surrendering to its beauty… We are sure that it will win you over and that sooner or later, you’ll come to visit Rovinj again.


General information

Population 14,294
Average temperature in July 22.3 °C
County Istria
Average temperature in August 24.5 °C
Closest international airport Pula
Avg. sea temperature June-Sept 21°C - 24°C
 

Sights, landmarks & attractions

Rovinj old town

The Old Town

The Old Town of Rovinj rises up on a peninsula and is a witness to times gone by and valuable accomplishments of its past artisans. The limited space led to the construction of narrow buildings, streets and small town squares. Of particular interest in this town centre are the characteristically designed chimneys. The town itself was declared a cultural monument in 1963.

Euphemia Church Rovinj

The church of Saint Euphemia

The church is a most imposing structure which bears the name of the patron saint of the town. It dominates the whole Rovinj historic town centre. It was built in the 18th century, while its facade in Venetian-baroque style was added in the middle of the last century. At the top of the sixty metre high bell tower stands the copper statue of St.Euphemia, which shows the direction of the wind by turning on a spindle.

Holy Spirit Baptismal Font Rovinj

The baptismal font of the Holy Spirit

The baptismal font of the Holy Spirit has been constructed in a heptagonal shape and is the oldest relic situated in the Rovinj's Lokva Square. The 13th century Romanesque church which houses the font is also interesting because of the detailed carvings of the transenna depicting scenes of Golgotha.

Francaisan Monastery

The Franciscan Monastery

The Franciscan Monastery and the church were built at the beginning of the 18th century. This interesting building built entirely in the Baroque style, contains a rich library and a fascinating museum of sacral artifacts. It is situated in De Amicis street.

Sveti Andrija Castle

The castle on the island of Sveti Andrija (St. Andrew)

The castle was originally a Benedictine Monastery established in the 6th century AD. In the 15th century the Franciscan order added extensions and it was again refurbished at the end of the 19th century by Baron Hütterodt. The castle has now been converted into a hotel.

Rovinj Town Walls

Rovinj town walls and gates

The first walls were built in 7th century which were enforced later on and towers were built. The town walls of Rovinj have been partly preserved on their north and south sides. Previously there were seven entry gates to the town. The original shape has been preserved with the Gate of St Benedict, now Gate on the Quay, the Gate of St Cross with the town coat of arms, and the Gate Under the Wall, with inscription from 1954.

Rovinj Museum

The Museum

The County Museum of the Town of Rovinj was founded in 1954. It holds valuable examples of art and it also houses the scientific library with more than 30.000 books. Throughout the year various exhibitions are being organised in the Museum.

Rovinj Aquarium

Rovinj Aquarium

The Aquarium is a part of the Sea Research Centre of the Institute "Ruder Boškovic". The aquarium has been operating more than 100 years and it is one of the oldest in the world.

Rovinj Balbi Arch

The Balbi Arch

The Balbi arch on Tito's Square was built in the place of the previous town gate. It was faced with stone in 1678.