Sveti Lovreč Medieval Town and Bell Tower

Sveti Lovreč is one of Istria’s best-preserved medieval towns, offering visitors a journey through centuries of history in a tranquil, scenic setting. Nestled in the hinterland between Vrsar and Poreč, the town’s circular layout hints at its origins as a prehistoric hillfort, later fortified during the Byzantine era and further developed under Venetian rule. The town’s name comes from the Church of St. Lawrence, dating back to the 8th century, while the striking Romanesque bell tower, built in the 11th century, stands as a testament to Sveti Lovreč’s enduring spiritual and architectural heritage.

As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll encounter impressive stone walls, the Velika vrata (Main Gate) adorned with family coats of arms and the Venetian Lion of St. Mark, and the town square, Plac, which features a loggia once used for official gatherings and a stone pillar of shame—a reminder of the town’s judicial past. The parish church, St. Martin’s Basilica, is renowned for its 11th-century frescoes, adding to the site’s cultural richness.

Sveti Lovreč is surrounded by fields, vineyards, and olive groves, making it a peaceful retreat for those seeking both history and natural beauty. While there are no set opening hours or admission fees for exploring the town and its bell tower, visitors are welcome to stroll at their own pace, discovering the layers of history that make Sveti Lovreč a hidden gem in central Istria.