Vižula Archaeological Park: A Roman Seaside Escape

Vižula Archaeological Park, located on a peninsula in the heart of Medulin, offers a captivating journey through millennia of history. This 26-hectare park reveals archaeological remains spanning from the Neolithic period to Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages. The highlight of Vižula is the remains of an ancient Roman villa, one of the most opulent maritime residences on the eastern Adriatic coast during the Roman Empire. Characterized by its grand scale, elaborate architecture, and exquisite details like mosaics and marble, the villa offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of its former inhabitants. Archaeological research indicates that the villa may have been an imperial palace during the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. The villa had features such as a system for warming water and air, and a floor central heating system. The park is designed as a multimedia experience for all ages. Visitors can explore an ancient garden showcasing horticulture from the Roman era. For a more immersive experience, VR goggles are available for rent, allowing visitors to visualize the restored ancient villa. The park also includes amenities such as bars, children's playgrounds, an adrenaline park, and an archaeology school. Smart benches, an e-tree, a hotspot, interpretation boards (including Braille texts), and a tactile map enhance the visitor experience. Vižula's history extends beyond the Roman period. The peninsula has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, and served as a strategically important location in Roman times. The area was ideal for sea trade and fishing, and the Romans built luxurious villas here. The park also contains the submerged remains of the Burle necropolis, where the inhabitants of Vižula were buried from the 1st to the 6th centuries.