Vodnjan, Croatia
Vodnjan is a picturesque town in Croatia, Istria, located near Pula. It is known for its historic center, featuring narrow, stone streets and old buildings with diverse architecture. The town houses the Basilica of St. Blaise, famous for its relics of saints and mummified bodies. Vodnjan is also renowned for its olive oil production, valued worldwide for its quality. Each year, festivals and cultural events are held here, attracting many tourists. It’s an ideal place for those seeking tranquility and the unique atmosphere of Istria.
Parking in Vodnjan
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1. Northern Parking
GPS: 44.961798, 13.847328
Description: The largest town parking, located near the Church of St. Blaise.
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2. Southern Parking
GPS: 44.958425, 13.847827
Description: A small parking lot at the southern edge of the town.
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3. South-Eastern Parking
GPS: 44.958410, 13.851021
Description: A relatively spacious parking lot located about 400 meters from the town center.
Exploring Vodnjan
At the beginning of our walk, let’s take a moment to feel the charm of this Istrian gem. Notice how narrow and winding the streets are—a living reminder of its medieval past. Look ahead—there’s the Church of St. Blaise (A; GPS: 44.96065149, 13.847724002), an impressive landmark housing one of the largest collections of mummified saints in Europe. Let’s step inside! The interior is breathtaking, full of intricate frescoes and a serene atmosphere that invites reflection.
As we exit the church, let’s head towards the main square (B; GPS: 44.96038803, 13.849564899). Do you see the Venetian-style buildings around us? They tell the rich history of Vodnjan under Venetian rule. On our left, there’s the Town Hall, a striking building blending Gothic and Renaissance elements. Imagine the stories this building could tell!
Continuing down the cobblestone streets, let’s take a turn here and discover the hidden alleys. Look at the painted murals on some of the walls. Vodnjan has embraced art as a way to preserve its history, and these murals are a testament to that effort.
From here, let’s head to the outskirts of the town. The views of the surrounding olive groves and vineyards are stunning, aren’t they? This is where the true essence of Vodnjan comes alive. The land is fertile, and its fruits have sustained the local community for generations.
Finally, let’s visit an interesting open-air museum — Park Kažun (C; GPS: 44.968584603, 13.8458688207). These small stone huts are a unique feature of the Istrian landscape, used by shepherds and farmers as shelters. Walking among them feels like stepping back in time. Nearby, there is an old Church of St. Francis of Assisi, which is also worth a visit.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through Vodnjan. I hope discovering its treasures brought you great joy.
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