Vrsar combines medieval urban structures, the Dušan Džamonja Sculpture Park complex, which is protected as Croatian cultural heritage, and the islands of the southern archipelago. The Dušan Džamonja Sculpture Park is located near Vrsar and is a public cultural site featuring the artist’s former residence, studio and gallery, as well as a 24,000-square-metre park with 26 sculptures. The entire complex is protected as Croatian cultural heritage.
Culture and History
The historic town centre follows the medieval layout of a walled town. Its narrow, steep and winding streets follow the natural course of the slope and pass architectural details such as windows, balconies, stairs, gates and entrances. The Church of St Anthony of Padua was built in 1656 from local stone in the Venetian Renaissance style.
The Large Town Gate is part of Vrsar’s medieval fortification system. It was built in the Middle Ages and displays Romanesque features. The Small Town Gate preserves a well-preserved wooden structure that once barred access to Vrsar. Vrsar Castle was restored in 2001 and is now privately owned residential property.
The Montraker quarry is located on a peninsula northwest of the old town centre. The quarry was exploited from prehistoric times until the mid-20th century; the abandoned cliffs of Montraker are used for events and shows. Giacomo Casanova is also associated with Vrsar: he first visited the town in August 1743 and later returned to Vrsar.
Coast and Islands
Porto Sole is a more than one-kilometre-long beach with natural shade and Blue Flag status. The Church of St George stands on the island of the same name, St George. On 23 April, the feast day of St George, a sailing pilgrimage to the island of St George takes place.
Longa is a small island in Vrsar’s southern archipelago, half a nautical mile from Porto Sole campsite and the Belvedere resort. Snorkelling is possible around two rocks near Longa; an underwater arch lies between them, allowing visitors to swim through it. The viewpoints of Vrsar overlook the local islands, islets, bays and channels.
Excursion boats travel from Vrsar-Orsera through the Lim Channel to Rovinj-Rovigno for daily and nightly panoramic tours.
Nature and Activities
The longest cycling route from Vrsar leads to protected nature reserves along Lim Bay and through Kontija Forest.
Local Specialities
Vrsar amaretti are a traditional hazelnut dessert associated with local agricultural and cultural traditions. In Vrsar, wine and rakija made from grape pomace are considered local alcoholic beverages. Istrian varieties include Malvasia, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris, Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Borgonja, Merlot, Refošk, Cabernet and Ružičasta Hrvatica, among others.
Those who choose Vrsar as their holiday destination will want to find a holiday apartment here. The same destination area also includes Funtana.
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