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Church of St. Euphemia: Rovinj's Baroque Masterpiece

Discover Rovinj's iconic Baroque church, home to St. Euphemia's relics, offering stunning views from its bell tower and a glimpse into local history.

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Dominating Rovinj's skyline, the Church of St. Euphemia is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and the town's most iconic landmark. Built in the 18th century on the site of previous churches, it houses the relics of St. Euphemia and offers breathtaking panoramic views from its bell tower.

A brief summary to Church of St. Euphemia

Local tips

  • Climb the bell tower for panoramic views of Rovinj and the Adriatic Sea; the views can extend to the Alps on a clear day.
  • Visit the sarcophagus of St. Euphemia, located behind the altar, and learn about the legend of how her relics arrived in Rovinj.
  • Take time to explore the church's interior, admiring the Baroque architecture, altars, and artwork.
  • Check the opening hours before you visit, as they vary depending on the month.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Church of St. Euphemia is located in the heart of Rovinj's old town, which is a car-free zone. From Trg na mostu (the bridge square), head east, walking through Balbi's Arch, the old town gate. Follow Grisia Street uphill; this historic street will lead you directly to the church. The walk is steep in places and takes approximately 5-10 minutes from the arch. As the old town is a car-free zone, walking is the only way to access the church directly.

  • Public Transport

    Rovinj doesn't have a traditional public transportation system with buses within the old town. The Rovinj Bus Station is located approximately 1.4km from the city center. From the bus station, it is best to walk to the Church of St. Euphemia. Head west towards the old town, following the coastal road, and then proceed through Balbi's Arch and up Grisia Street. The walk from the bus station takes around 15-20 minutes.

  • Parking

    If arriving by car, be aware that the old town is a car-free zone. The closest parking is available at Valdibora parking lot, located a short walk north of the old town. From Valdibora, walk south towards the old town, enter through Balbi's Arch, and follow Grisia Street uphill to the church. Parking at Valdibora costs approximately 3.50 EUR per hour. Street parking is also available in designated zones outside the old town, with varying hourly rates depending on the zone and time of year. Zone 1 is closest to the old town, but parking is limited to 3 hours. Payment can be made at parking machines, kiosks, or via mobile apps.

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Discover more about Church of St. Euphemia

The Church of St. Euphemia, locally known as Sveta Fuma, stands as the most important and recognizable monument in Rovinj. This impressive Baroque structure was constructed between 1725 and 1736, on the site of earlier Christian buildings, including a small church dedicated to St. George. The church is dedicated to St. Euphemia, the patron saint of Rovinj, whose sarcophagus, containing her relics, is housed within. The church's architecture is a prime example of Istrian coastal Baroque style. The interior features three naves, with the main altar dedicated to St. George, St. Mark, and St. Rocco. The walls of the choir are adorned with paintings that once graced the old Rovinj parish church. The bell tower, resembling that of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, was built between 1654 and 1680. Atop the 60-meter tower stands a copper statue of St. Euphemia, which rotates with the wind, acting as a weather vane. Climbing the bell tower offers visitors stunning panoramic views of Rovinj and the surrounding Adriatic Sea, with vistas extending to the Alps on clear days. The legend of St. Euphemia tells of her sarcophagus miraculously arriving on the shores of Rovinj in the 10th century. The relics were briefly stolen but returned in the 14th century. Inside the church, visitors can admire the Roman sarcophagus holding St. Euphemia's relics, Gothic statues, and paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries. The church's rich history, artwork, and panoramic views make it a must-see attraction in Rovinj.

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