St. Euphemia's Basilica

St. Euphemia's Basilica is a Baroque cathedral in Rovinj with a copper-domed roof and slender bell tower that rises above the town. The interior features a broad central nave with two side aisles, and the altar is highlighted by elaborate marble details.

The current basilica was built beginning in 1725, replacing an earlier church on the same site and completed in 1736 under architect Giovanni Dozza. This reconstruction reflected Rovinj's growing prosperity during its period under Venetian rule.

The basilica houses the relics of Saint Euphemia, venerated by the faithful for centuries as a sacred destination. Pilgrims visit to honor the saint and admire the Venetian marble altars that define the interior.

The bell tower can be climbed to reach a vantage point with sweeping views across the coast and surrounding landscape on clear days. The climb involves narrow stairs but rewards visitors with broad panoramic sightlines.

A copper statue of Saint Euphemia at the bell tower's peak rotates as a weather vane to indicate wind direction. This functional sculpture merges practical design with religious devotion in an unusual way.

Location: Rovinj

Inception: 1725

Architectural style: Baroque

GPS coordinates: 45.08319,13.63111

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:02