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Church of St. Pelagia: A Neoclassical Gem in Novigrad

Discover the historical and spiritual heart of Novigrad at the Church of St. Pelagia, a landmark of faith and architectural beauty.

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The Church of St. Pelagia, located on Veliki trg in Novigrad, is a Catholic church that stands as a testament to the town's rich history. Originally built in the early Christian era, it has been rebuilt several times, with its current neoclassical facade completed in 1935. The church is known for its prominent bell tower, which has become a symbol of Novigrad.

A brief summary to Church of St. Pelagia

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary throughout the week.
  • Take some time to walk around Veliki trg, the main square where the church is located.
  • Visit the Lapidarium Museum near the church to see a collection of stone monuments from the ancient and medieval periods.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Church of St. Pelagia is located on Veliki trg in the center of Novigrad, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the town. From the Novigrad Marina, walk west along the waterfront, then turn left onto Rivarela. Continue onto Mandrač, then turn right onto Veliki trg. The church will be on your left. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Novigrad bus station is located a short distance from the town center. From the bus station, walk southwest on Murve toward Ul. Sv. Servula, then turn right onto Ul. Sv. Servula. Continue onto Ul. Mandrač, then turn left onto Veliki trg. The church will be on your left. A single bus fare within Novigrad typically costs around €1.50 - €2.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Novigrad. A short taxi ride from the Novigrad bus station to the Church of St. Pelagia would cost approximately €8 - €12, depending on traffic and the specific service used.

  • Driving

    If driving, paid parking is available near the city center. From the main road, follow signs to the city center. Parking near the city center costs approximately €1 per hour. Be aware that parking spaces can be limited, especially during peak season. An alternative parking area is located near the Novigrad Port (Marina Nautica Novigrad).

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Discover more about Church of St. Pelagia

The Church of St. Pelagia, or the Parish Church of St. Pelagius and St. Maximus, is a three-nave basilica that has witnessed significant periods in Novigrad's history. The church acquired its original form in the early Christian period when the Novigrad diocese was established. During its golden age, from the 5th/6th century until 1831, this church served as the cathedral, with Novigrad as the center of the diocese. Inside, visitors can admire ceiling frescos, a majestic organ, and a Baroque altar. The church also holds the tombs of several local bishops. Beneath the church lies the early Romanesque crypt, the only one of its kind in Istria and one of the few in Croatia. Although the crypt is not always open to the public, it contains interesting medieval artifacts. Recent research and restoration have uncovered numerous medieval stone monuments, now housed in the Lapidarium Museum. The bell tower, a prominent feature of the church, was built in 1883 by the Giorgia Giurco family. This free-standing bell tower is 45 meters high and constructed entirely of carved stone blocks. The tower is divided by narrow windows and horizontal cornices, with a city clock. At the top of the pyramid sits a statue of St. Pelagia, installed in 1913.

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