Attraction Guide: Church of St. Euphemia, Rovinj, Croatia

Church of St. Euphemia Guide

Ascend to History: The Majestic Church of St. Euphemia Guide

Dominating the Rovinj skyline, the Church of St. Euphemia is a magnificent Baroque structure and the town's most iconic landmark. Perched atop the highest point of the peninsula, this church offers not only stunning architectural details but also panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding islands. A visit to St. Euphemia is a must for anyone exploring Rovinj. The church is dedicated to St. Euphemia, a Christian martyr from Chalcedon (present-day Turkey). Legend has it that her sarcophagus miraculously floated to Rovinj in the 9th century. The original church on this site was built in her honor, but it was later replaced by the current Baroque structure in the 18th century. The bell tower, modeled after St. Mark's Campanile in Venice, is topped with a copper statue of St. Euphemia that rotates with the wind. Visitors can explore the church's interior, admiring its ornate decorations, religious artwork, and the sarcophagus of St. Euphemia. The highlight of a visit is climbing the bell tower for unparalleled views of Rovinj and the surrounding coastline. The climb is steep and involves wooden stairs, but the reward is well worth the effort. While the church itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, its location in the heart of Rovinj's Old Town means you're surrounded by restaurants offering traditional Istrian cuisine, including dishes featuring truffles, seafood, and olive oil.