WOX TRAVEL CONTEST | WEEK 3 | Brilliant Small Beauty

Rovinj, bathed in a symphony of pastel tones, houses nestled closely together, emerging straight from the sea – this view enchanted me from the very moment I arrived in the town. Isn't this a little Venice? Definitely yes, they call Rovinj the Croatian Venice, the most romantic city in Croatia. Not without reason did Jules Verne choose this city as the unique setting for his novel - Matthias Sandorf 🥰

Through the Balbi Arch, I entered the Old Town. Once, this place was one of the seven gates of the city's fortress wall. The current arch was built in 1680 and is named after the then-mayor of the city, Daniel Balbi.

As you may recall, the town is incredibly picturesque, with its colorful buildings and the atmosphere shaped by its rich history and the people who inhabit it today. 🌈

If you appreciate art, you'll certainly enjoy it here. There are many small and cozy galleries that invite you to step inside, explore, and perhaps even purchase a piece that catches your eye. 🎨

The cobblestone streets can be quite slippery, requiring careful steps, yet this adds to their allure. These pathways radiate a romantic ambiance, whisking you away through time with each step, as if strolling through centuries of captivating history. 😊

These romantic elongated street tunnels are a common sight, providing passages from one street to another or even passing through several houses. ⭐

Flowers are an essential decoration, and thank goodness for that! Otherwise, the city would be lifeless. 🪴

The story goes that this place was inhabited by Illyrians and Veneti, Gauls, Celts, Slavs, Romans, and Germans. The Romans called it Ruvinium and established a fortified military settlement here, known as Castrum Rubini. It likely stood where the present-day St. Euphemia's Church is located.

Here, you'll feel like you're in Italy because Italians have literally taken over the streets. Get ready for lively conversations at a high volume, which is a typical trait that I personally adore. 😃

The harbor is bustling with life, filled with boats of all sizes coming and going, alongside numerous restaurants and cafes to enjoy. The Adriatic Sea unfolds in breathtaking views, and a serene atmosphere envelops the surroundings. It's a scene of pure beauty, inviting you to immerse yourself in the picturesque surroundings and relish the tranquil ambiance. 💖

In 1911, 97.8% of the population was Italian. After World War II, when Rovinj became part of Yugoslavia, a considerable number of Italian residents departed, resulting in notable shifts in the city's demographic composition. Today, the majority of the population in Rovinj is Croatian. Yet, the city preserves its cultural diversity, enriched by the presence of Italians, Serbs, Albanians, and Bosnians, each contributing to the vibrant and diverse cultural tapestry of the community. ☮️

The Venetian influence here is strongly palpable. It marks a long and significant period for the city, making Rovinj the most Italian of all Croatian towns. The architecture of the buildings, the layout of the streets, the mentality of the people, the cuisine, and even the language – Italian is the second official language of the city. All street signs, aside from Croatian, are always in Italian, reflecting the deep imprint of this historical connection. 🇭🇷 🍝 🇮🇹

Absolutely everything in this city is extraordinary. Both its history and its location. This small peninsula, originally an island linked to the mainland by a narrow strait, adds to the city's allure. The way it has transformed over time while maintaining its unique character and charm is truly fascinating! This city is dear to my heart, thanks to the enchanting Italian influence, the genuine warmth of its people, and the captivating beauty of its surroundings. ❤️‍🔥 Enjoy