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Rovinj Old Town
Map showing the location of Rovinj
Thanks to Google we can include this aerial shot of Rovinj Old Town
Originally an island, connected to the mainland in the 18th century |
Today we
decided on a road trip to Rovinj about 1 ¼ hours’ drive southwest of here. We left at around 10:00 AM arriving there shortly
after 11 AM. Unfortunately, wall to wall
traffic and tourists meant circulating to try to find a parking spot. Eventually, we were successful in finding
free parking about 20 minutes’ walk from Old Town. The folks from UK we met yesterday
recommended Rovinj and they were not wrong. It was a gem with great ambiance
and all the charm of any Old Town we’ve visited in the past.
It is very
small and restricted by being bound by its island like borders. It is
predominantly surrounded by water so has a very large marina in one area which is
crowded with restaurants, cafes and hotels and along certain areas are rocky
outcrops dropping to the sea with buildings and walkways above. On the west
side, facing the Adriatic Sea there were a few swimmers and sunbathers on the
outcrops below. Rounding the northern shore was another smaller marina with fewer
catamarans and boats.
In the
centre of the promontory were many pedestrian walkways along which were
numerous well maintained colourful buildings in which were found a variety of shops
selling: clothing, jewellery, art or souvenirs. There were of course many
restaurants and cafes where patrons were enjoying relaxing and visiting while
having lunch or coffee or a drink.
Around the
marina was the area which had the largest plazas with fountains and an aura of
wealth. It was also where there seemed to be the greatest gathering of people.
Leaving this area, we proceeded around the outer edges of the town, ascending
gradually, to finally arrive at the Basilica near the top. It is very large
and had many visitors. Since today is September 17, the day between Edna and
Norm Petrin’s (Eloise's parents) birthdays, she lit a candle in remembrance of them both, hoping
they’re keeping each other company!
We
gradually descended the stairway along the alley through the shops back to the
main pedestrian walkway to make our way back to a meeting point to head back
for the long walk to our car.
We were
pleased to have made the journey to visit this Adriatic Coastal Town.
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| Along the route |
Scenes around Rovinj |
| Pedestrian walkway in Old Town |
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| The main harbour |
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| The main harbour |
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| Plaza near the harbour |
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| Seaside dining |
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| Interesting scene |
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| One of the bathing areas |
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| Trees here are hugely impressive and sometimes gnarly |
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| A glimpse of the church tower |
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| Church of St. Euphemia - Baroque catholic church built in 1736 |
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| Inside the church |
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Inside the church
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| Istrian Coast Brandy vendor |
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| An alley of art |
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An alley of art
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| The Market in Rovinj |
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| Truffles are available around the Istrian Coastal area |
