A Day in the Coastal City of Rovinj, Croatia
When you enter the #Isterian coastal town of Rovinj, you are transported to another time. A romantic time. With its Italian cuisine and very Italian feel, this town draws you in and doesn’t let go. The cobble stones glisten in the morning sun, beckoning you to walk down narrow alleyways that are lined with colorful buildings, with the appearance of artistic intent. Part of the Venetian empire for five-hundred years this town still seems very Italian. In fact, on a very clear day you can actually see Venice.
As you can see I am wearing a cotton shirt, lightweight sweatshirt and down vest. The outer two layers disappear as the morning progresses into afternoon, only to be needed again at night.
As you walk around the waterfront, you will see boats in the harbor, and smell the clean fresh ocean air mingled with the aroma of basil, tomato, and garlic. While the smells may stimulate your appetite, don’t worry because there are plenty of places to stop for a delicious meal.
This statue of a little boy, circa 1959, is the centerpiece of Tito Square and signifies the arrival of running water to the old town of Rovinj.
Affixed to a cliff overlooking the Adriatic sea, the mauve-colored building, with the black awning over the double wooden doors, houses Valentino Cocktail and Champagne bar. This building was named after the town’s benefactor, Dr. Domenico Pergolis, Next to the Valentino/Pergolis building stands “The Little Church of the Cross”. The church, built in 1592, was built over the oldest structure in Rovinj, which dates back to the ancient Romans and is currently an art gallery.
Standing atop the 17th century Baroque Tower of the Church of St. Euphemia is a statue dedicated to the saint which moves to show the direction of the wind. Like red skies at night, sailors delight, there is nothing a sailor loves better than when the statue of Saint Euphemia faces the sea.
Walking down a glistening cobblestone alleyway provides one the opportunity to reflect upon how modern technology has made things better...or worse.
Built by the Venetians in 1487, Little Church of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church has been renovated twice, in 1584 and in 1750.
The sodium lamps illuminate the bustling Streets of Rovinj giving them a yellowish glow.
Love those Irish pubs, they seem to be in every country we've visited. As my husband is fond of reminding me, if you're lucky enough to be Irish, you're lucky enough. He's actually half Italian, but says his grandmother Bridget Rose told him “If you're ever asked, you're Irish!”
A couple can be seen in the early evening walking through recently restored and cleaned Balbi’s Arch towards Grisia Street. The arch was built by the Venetians around 1678 and stands where the Medieval old town gate once stood and is one of the most recognizable symbols of Rovinj.
Daybreak, the sun is rising, the fishermen have readied their boats and set sail while the plaza slowly comes alive.
The farmers market is starting to open, garlic, figs, fruits, flowers,veggies and more will fill the stalls within the next hours. It’s very popular, so you want to arrive early for the pick of the crop.
Next stop Starigrad
Coming August 30, 2020
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