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Monkodonja: Istria's Bronze Age Citadel

Step back in time at Monkodonja, a Bronze Age hillfort near Rovinj, and explore the fascinating ruins of an ancient Istrian settlement.

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Explore Monkodonja, a remarkable Bronze Age archaeological site near Rovinj, dating back to 1800 BC. Wander through the ruins of this once-thriving settlement, encircled by imposing stone walls, and discover the remnants of a sophisticated society, offering a unique glimpse into prehistoric Istria.

A brief summary to Monkodonja, gradina, arheološko nalazište

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven and requires some walking.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the site in tranquility.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on-site.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the site is best enjoyed in pleasant conditions.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of Monkodonja.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Rovinj (Trg Marsala Tita), walk southeast towards the waterfront. Follow the coastal path until you reach Ulica Grgura Gamulina, then turn right. Continue to the junction with Ulica D. J. Šperca, where you'll see signs for Monkodonja. Follow the signs, continuing straight through scenic countryside. The site is approximately 2.5 km from this junction. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Rovinj to Bale. Buses run regularly, with a journey time of about 20 minutes. From Bale, take a taxi to Monkodonja, as there's no direct public transport. The taxi ride is approximately 3 km and costs around 10-15 HRK. Bus fare from Rovinj to Bale is approximately 20 HRK.

  • Car

    From Rovinj, head northwest on D75 towards Kanfanar. After about 4 km, turn right onto a smaller road signposted for Monkodonja. Continue for 1.5 km to reach the site entrance. Parking is available near the entrance, and there may be a small fee. Parking fees are approximately 10 HRK per hour.

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Discover more about Monkodonja, gradina, arheološko nalazište

Monkodonja, often called the 'Mycenae of Istria,' is a captivating archaeological site located approximately 5 km southeast of Rovinj. This Bronze Age settlement, dating back to around 1800 BC, offers a fascinating glimpse into the early urban development of the Adriatic region. The site is situated on a hill, 81 meters above sea level, and was occupied until around 1200 BC. Encircled by three concentric defensive walls constructed from massive stone blocks using a dry stone technique, the settlement reflects advanced engineering skills for its time. These walls, stretching about 1 km in length, 3 meters in width, and at least 3 meters in height, once protected a community of approximately 1,000 inhabitants. The removal of stone for the walls created a leveled top and wide terraces. Monkodonja was divided into three distinct areas: an acropolis for the elite, an upper town, and a lower town. The acropolis, with its nearly rectangular outline, housed the settlement's wealthiest residents. The remains of houses, workshops, and streets reveal a well-organized urban layout. Artifacts discovered at the site, including pottery and metal objects, suggest trade links with the eastern Mediterranean and the Mycenaean culture. Just 500 meters southeast of Monkodonja lie the Mušego burial mounds, adding another layer of historical significance to the area. These tumuli, constructed with large stone blocks, contained stone chests holding amber, faience pearls, and bronze jewelry. The reasons for Monkodonja's sudden abandonment around 1200 BC remain a mystery, adding to the site's allure. Today, Monkodonja stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its ancient inhabitants, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore Istria's prehistoric past.

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