Roč, Croatia
Roč, a small town on a hill in Istria, Croatia, is known for its rich history and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Its history dates back to Roman times, and the medieval character is still preserved by ancient walls and stone houses. Roč is considered a cultural treasure, often associated with Glagolitic script and its significance in Croatian heritage. Visitors can stroll through charming streets, visit the Church of St. Anthony with frescoes, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the town. It is also a starting point for hiking trails leading to nearby hills and viewpoints. Despite its small size, Roč offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Parking in Roč
Here are two recommended parking spots near the center of Roč, along with their addresses and GPS coordinates:
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1. Parking next to the Church of St. Roch
GPS: 45.393672, 14.046409
Description: A small parking lot in the center next to the Church of St. Roch. Convenient access to tourist attractions.
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2. Parking near St. Martin's Chapel
GPS: 45.394645, 14.047037
Description: A larger parking lot located below the town. About a 5-minute walk to the town center.
Welcome to Roč!
Let’s begin our journey through this charming, small corner of Istria, which, although tiny, hides a wealth of history and magic. Let’s stand here by the main city gate, made of stone, with its characteristic arch (A; GPS: 45.393805, 14.046725). Can you feel like you’ve stepped back in time? This is where, in medieval times, merchants and knights entered, and today we are crossing this threshold to discover what lies behind the walls.
Now, let’s head to the Church of St. Roch, located almost in the heart of the town (B; GPS: 45.393547, 14.046218). Look at those stone walls and the simplicity of the form – that’s a typical feature of this region. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and traces of ancient beliefs that have survived the centuries. It’s worth stopping for a moment, listening to the silence, and trying to imagine what this place looked like centuries ago.
Now, let’s walk towards the main street (C; GPS: 45.392949, 14.047038). No, there are no crowds or souvenir shops – this is not that kind of place. Look at these stone houses, with red rooftops and green shutters. Each one tells a story. Oh, and over there on the right, you see a small plaque? It’s a marker that reminds us that Roč was one of the most important centers of Glagolitic script. This ancient form of writing was once crucial for Croatia, and here its culture and education flourished.
Let’s go a little further to the Church of St. Anthony (D; GPS: 45.392955, 14.0466690). Its interior hides a true treasure – frescoes and Glagolitic inscriptions. Pay attention to those small, uneven letters; they’re not just text, but a testament to the history left by monks and scholars.
Finally, let’s head to the viewpoint, where you can see the entire valley. Stop here, take a look at the green-covered hills and the roofs in the distance. This is Istria – peaceful, picturesque, and full of mysteries. And now, when you know more about Roč, we can finish our walk with a coffee in the only café in the town (E; GPS: 45.394483, 14.044722). It tastes better, doesn’t it, when you know how much history surrounds it? 😊
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