Rovinj is town situated on the western coast of the Istria peninsula, Croatia; it has population of approximately 14,000 inhabitants.

Old part of town lies on the peninsula, and the first mention of Rovinj as Castrum Rubini is found in book "Cosmographia", from 7th century. According to archaeological findings, town area was already inhabited in the prehistoric period.
After the Romans the town was administered through the various rulers and powers. It fell under the rule of the Byzantine Empire and under the rule of different feudal lords during several centuries. Later from 13th century Rovinj was under the Venetian Republic, which has ruled for more than five centuries. Under the Republic of Venice Rovinj was one of the most important towns of Istria.
From 1797 town came under the rule of Austria, at 1918 occupied by Italy, and 1945 was attach to Croatia.
 
Rovinj economy is quite strong. Tourism and industry constitute the largest sources of revenue of the town. From industry, it is important to note the Rovinj Tobacco Factory and fishing industry.  Tourism is most important activity in Rovinj and the town has reach tourism history. In the area of the town of Rovinj are situated 10 hotels with the high standards and wide offer like the prestigious wellness center. Also in the area near the town are several campsites, hotel resorts, apartment complexes and camping sites. The largest camp in Rovinj is Valalta, naturist type, and among the biggest and best camping sites in Croatia.

Rovinj Archipelago has 22 islands of which, St. Catherine and St. Andrew are the largest and most beautiful. Particularly valuable and protected objects of nature and special reserves in the area of Rovinj are: the islands and the coastal area near the islet of St. John, Limski kanal (Lim Channel), Park "Punta Corrente", the Romuald's cave on the south side of the Lim channel and quarry "Cava di Monfiorenzo".

What to see in Rovinj

Old town
The old town, protected as a historical entity is the most interesting part of Rovinj.
The old part of town is rich in Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassicist styles of windows, balconies, roof terraces, portals and stairways. Walking along the narrow streets and squares, you will be fascinated by the beauty of closely built high houses, which support each other on the slopes below the church of St. Euphemia. The area was once protected by the early medieval city walls, which can be still found partially preserved until today on the south and the north side of the old town.
From  the seven town gates, three have retained its original form, the gate of St. Benedict (today the Gate on the coast), the gate of the Wall (with an inscription from 1590) and the gate of St. Cross (with the city coat of arms), while gate of the Balbi Arch experienced certain changes.
Just off the main square is the Balbi Arch, built on the site of an original town gate. By enter to the old town on the left side is the town hall from 1308, built and restored many times.
Further, you arrive at Veli Square, square with many beautiful Renaissance buildings, and further any street you choose to go there is something interesting to see; some street will take you to the coast and some to the top of the hill where magnificent parish church of St. Euphemia is situated.

Church of St. Eufemia
It is the largest monument in the town, reconstructed between 1725 and 1736 in Venetian Baroque style. The church interior is flourishing. The main altar and the other two were made by Gerolamo Laureate, and the beautiful statues of saints are made from marble by brothers Tagliapietra. In the church is also sarcophagus with the body of the Christian martyr Euphemia, brought miraculously to the town in year 800.

The bell tower
The construction of the bell tower began in 1651 and lasted 26 years. The bell tower is supposed to look like that of St. Mark church in Venice. A large copper statue of St. Euphemia, the work of brothers Vallani was, set at the top of the bell tower in 1758. You can climb on top of the tower to discover and enjoy a wide panorama.

Grisia
It is a picturesque street, and among the most recognizable trademark of the Rovinj. It is the most popular and frequently-used street in the Old Town. This street is the famous for its artists and galleries.

Town Square
It is interesting for its beauty and individual characteristics with the different architectural styles, from Venetian, Austrian and beautiful Baroque buildings. On the main square is situated Town Museum.

Church of the Holy Trinity
It is a heptagonal Romanesque church built during the 12th century, a real gem of native primitive art. The church is situated right next to the bus station and occasionally used as a show room for paintings and works of art.

Riva
Promenade area best known as the Riva, place to walk around and enjoy, it is a town promenade near the sea with plenty of cute cafes and restaurant around it.

Rovinj heritage museum
Situated in a Baroque palace and founded 1954 by young local artists.
Throughout the year at the Museum are different exhibitions mostly of contemporary art. The museum permanent exhibition is ethnographic, archeological and numismatic collection and contemporary Croatian art.

Center for Marine Research
It is established in 1891 and for many decades operating under the Institute of "Rudjer Boskovic". The main attraction of the center, the popular aquarium with more than a hundred years of tradition has always attracted many Marine lovers, tourists and explorers.