The Little Venice: Rovinj, Croatia!
My first foray into the Mediterranean was in Rovinj, Croatia, a captivating town often called 'Little Venice.' To say I fell in love is an understatement. Rovinj's history is a tapestry woven with threads of diverse rule. First mentioned as Castrum Rubini in the 5th century under Roman dominion, it endured a tumultuous past, facing numerous invasions while persistently striving for autonomy. After World War I, Rovinj became part of Italy, only to fall under German occupation from 1943 to 1945. In 1947, it finally joined the Yugoslav Republic of Croatia. Reflecting its rich history, Rovinj officially recognizes both Croatian and Italian as its languages. However, the locals speak a unique blend, a captivating linguistic tapestry that seamlessly interweaves Croatian and Italian, occasionally punctuated by a charmingly unexpected German word.
Perched majestically atop a hill, the Church of St. Euphemia in Rovinj is a sight to behold. Its bell tower, a striking resemblance to St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, soars 60 meters into the sky, crowned by a statue of St. Euphemia that gracefully pivots with the wind. Built between 1654 and 1680 according to the visionary plans of Antonio Manopola, the church is a treasure trove of art. Within its hallowed walls, you'll discover a 16th-century inlaid pulpit, exquisite 15th-century Gothic statues, and a collection of captivating 16th- and 17th-century paintings. And within its depths, rests the 6th-century Roman sarcophagus, a sacred vessel containing the precious relics of St. Euphemia herself.
The menu whispers of fresh catches, plucked from the crystal-clear waters just hours before. You order the crni rizot, the inky black sauce a mysterious promise of flavor. Each bite is a symphony of the sea, a taste of Rovinj's soul.
Later, you find yourselves at a cliffside restaurant, the sunset painting the sky in hues of gold and rose. You share a plate of oysters, each one a pearl of the ocean, savoring the briny sweetness. Perhaps you indulge in a plate of ćevapi, the grilled sausages bursting with flavor, or savor the peka, a traditional dish of slow-cooked meat and vegetables, bursting with earthy goodness. The air is alive with the sounds of laughter and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. This, my friends, is the magic of Rovinj: a culinary journey that will forever linger in your heart.
Though my heart belonged to Rovinj, a detour to the Pula Arena proved an irresistible siren song. This architectural marvel, a testament to Roman ingenuity, was born between 27 BC and 68 AD, and stands today as one of the world's six largest surviving Roman arenas. Its grandeur is undeniable – a perfectly preserved circuit of walls, a testament to the builders' skill. Limestone formed the foundation, while the seaward face boasted three magnificent stories, offering breathtaking vistas to ancient spectators. The remaining sides, built into the sloping terrain, maintained a more modest two-story elevation. Uniquely, all four corner towers remain intact, a testament to the arena's enduring strength. Now, restored to its former glory, it welcomes over 7,000 guests, their hushed whispers a stark contrast to the roar of the crowds that once witnessed gladiatorial combat. The Pula Arena – a timeless masterpiece that transported me back to the heart of the Roman Empire.
And so, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of lavender and gold, I knew this was a journey for the soul. The echoes of the Roman Empire lingered in the air, a testament to the enduring spirit of this enchanting land. Rovinj, with its cobblestone streets, its vibrant history, and its soul-stirring beauty, had woven its magic into my heart. I knew, with a certainty that transcended words, that this was just the beginning of a lifelong love affair with this captivating corner of the Mediterranean.
