Oprtalj Loggia

The Oprtalj Loggia is a captivating piece of Istrian heritage, perched on the edge of the hilltop town of Oprtalj in central Istria, Croatia. Built in the 16th century on the site of an earlier structure, the loggia has long served as a focal point for community life—hosting court sessions, public announcements, and lively folk festivals until the fall of Venice. Its recessed façade, graceful arcades, and Baroque details, including a baluster inscribed with ‘ANNO 1765’, reflect the architectural styles that have shaped the region over centuries.

Today, the loggia houses a lapidarium, where visitors can view an intriguing collection of Roman and medieval stone fragments. The open design of the building invites you to linger and take in the sweeping views of the Mirna valley and the rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves—a favorite spot for photographers and anyone seeking a tranquil moment.

Adjacent to the loggia is a bastion, further emphasizing Oprtalj’s historical role as a fortified settlement. The town itself is a delight to explore, with narrow cobbled streets, stone houses, and a relaxed pace that feels worlds away from the busier coastal resorts. While there are no set opening hours or admission fees for the loggia, it is always accessible as part of a stroll through Oprtalj’s atmospheric old town.