Rovinj Travel Guide
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About Rovinj
Rovinj (Croatian: [rǒviːɲ]; Venetian and Italian: Rovigno; Istriot: Ruvèigno or Ruveîgno; Ancient Greek: Ρυγίνιον, romanized: Rygínion; Latin: Ruginium) is a town in west Croatia situated on the north Adriatic Sea with a population of 12,968 (2021). Located on the western coast of the Istrian peninsula, it is a popular tourist resort and beach destination, in addition to being an active fishing port. Istriot, a Romance language once widely spoken in this part of Istria, is still spoken by some of the residents. The town is officially bilingual, Croatian and Italian, hence both town names are official and equal. == History == Rovinj was already a settlement of Venetian or Illyrian tribes before being captured by the Romans, who called it Arupinium or Mons Rubineus, and later Ruginium and Ruvinium. Rovinj was eventually incorporated into the Byzantine Empire, later becoming part of the Exarchate of Ravenna in the 6th century, before being taken over by the Frankish Empire in 788. For the following several centuries it was ruled by a succession of feudal lords, and in 1209 it was acquired by the Patriarchate of Aquileia under Wolfger von Erla. From 1283 to 1797, Rovinj was one of the most important towns in Istria governed by the Republic of Venice. During this period, three town gates were constructed and Rovinj was fortified by two rows of defensive walls, remains of which can still be seen today. The Rovinj pier is home to one of the old town gates, Balbi's Arch, dating from 1680, and a late-Renaissance clock tower.
Rovinj fun facts
- Rovinj is a picturesque fishing port on the Istrian peninsula, known for its romantic, narrow, and winding streets.
- The city of Rovinj shows a strong Italian influence in its architecture and culture, a remnant of its history under Venetian rule.