Rijeka is the second largest city of the Croatian coast and one of the most important seaports in Europe. It is mainly known as a starting point to popular Croatian islands, situated in the northern Adriatic. If you pass this way, stop at least for a short tour, you will not regret it.
Rijeka is industrial city and therefore rarely becomes a place of holidaymakers. But it still has a lot to offer its visitors, and is generally considered a center of cultural and artistic life.
Rijeka was an important defense point already in the Roman times. It was protected by massive fortifications built in the early 4th century that protected the town against the raids of the barbarians. There are still the remains of walls, that in some places reach up to an impressive height of two meters. From the same period comes also the Roman arch. Today, although it can be found in the center, but in earlier times was the main gateway into the city.
Access from the sea was secured by a medieval tower, but it was irretrievably destroyed by a massive earthquake in 1740. In its place was built the most beautiful building of Rijeka and the main symbol of the city – City clock tower. Its construction was supported also by the Austrian Empress Maria Theresa. The clock that was installed here a century later reportedly since then shows the correct time. City clock Tower is also the most dominant building in the main artery of the city and its pedestrian zone, called Korzo. Sitting in a small café and listening to the water gushing from a variety of fountains, can be irresistible experience. The Korzo is within a walking distance of almost all of the attractions of the city.
Rijeka’s Cathedral is dedicated to St. Vitus, who is the patron and protector of the city. This building with Baroque and Gothic elements acquired its present appearance in the 17th century. Its bell tower was formerly directly connected to the adjacent Jesuit college and seminary.
North of the Cathedral leads Rijeka Calvary, a path originating from the 17th century. It originated as a response of Jesuit monks for a much earlier pilgrim’s path leading to the Franciscan monastery, which stands on a nearby hill Trsat. This can be reached by climbing up 370 steps or a little more comfortable by a city bus line No. 1. In monastery are buried prominent personalities of Croatian history. The neighboring church of Our Lady of Loreto is a popular place of pilgrimage for many believers. The complex is close to the neo-Gothic castle, which is now used for cultural purposes. Here you can enjoy a wonderful view of the surroundings.
Rijeka is worth visiting even in winter, especially in February, when the city hosts the carnival. It ranks among the most renowned carnivals throughout Croatia. It lasts 10 days and attracts thousands of people from across the country and abroad.
