Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in the Historic Centre of Poreč
Porec, Croatia
24.07.2024
Welcome to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica and the Historic Center of Porec, located in the charming town of Porec in Croatia!
The Episcopal Complex, consisting of the Euphrasian Basilica and its surrounding buildings, was built in the 6th century AD and is considered one of the finest examples of early Byzantine architecture in the Mediterranean region. The basilica is dedicated to Saint Maurus, the first bishop of Porec, and is adorned with stunning mosaics and frescoes that depict scenes from the Old and New Testament.
The complex also includes the Bishop's Palace, built in the 4th century AD, which served as the residence for the bishops of Porec until the 18th century. The Palace has undergone various renovations and additions throughout the centuries, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements.
Next to the Bishop's Palace is the Northern Tower, which was once a part of the town's defense system during the Venetian rule in the 15th century. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
The Historic Center of Porec, which surrounds the Episcopal Complex, is a charming maze of narrow streets lined with medieval houses and buildings. The center has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Austrians.
Today, the Historic Center is a bustling hub of activity, with its many restaurants, cafes, and shops attracting tourists from all over the world. It also hosts various cultural events, such as the famous Porec Open Air Festival, which takes place in the summer months.
Visiting the Episcopal Complex and the Historic Center of Porec is like taking a trip back in time, surrounded by centuries of history and culture. It's a must-see destination for anyone interested in architecture, art, and the rich heritage of Croatia.
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The group of religious monuments in Porec, where Christianity was established as early as the 4th century, constitutes the most complete surviving complex of its type. The basilica, atrium, baptistery and episcopal palace are outstanding examples of religious architecture, while the basilica itself combines classical and Byzantine elements in an exceptional manner.
Poreč (Croatian pronunciation: [ˈpɔrɛtʃ]; Italian: Parenzo; Venetian: Parenso; Latin: Parens or Parentium; Ancient Greek: Πάρενθος, romanized: Párenthos) is a town and municipality on the western coast of the Istrian peninsula, in Istria County, west Croatia. Its major landmark is the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
The town is almost 2,000 years old, and is set around a harbour protected from the sea by the small island of Sveti Nikola/San Nicola (Saint Nicholas). Its population of approximately 12,000 resides mostly on the outskirts, while the wider Poreč area has a population of approximately 16,600 inhabitants. The municipal area covers 142 square kilometres (55 sq mi), with the 37 kilometres (23 miles) long shoreline stretching from the Mirna River near Novigrad (Cittanova) to Funtana (Fontane) and Vrsar (Orsera) in the south. Ever since the 1970s, the coast of Poreč and neighboring Rovinj (Rovigno) has been the most visited tourist destination in Croatia.
