An espresso and a
piece of Rapska Torta (Rab cake) with a view on the several centuries old St. Christopher's Square - that's a beautiful way to start the day. ☺
The
white stone, which was predominantly used for the construction of the alleys, squares, stairs and buildings, shines in the sun. The years have left a patina that adds to the charm of the buildings.
Rab is one of the very few towns on the Adriatic whose
history can be traced from the pre-Roman era to the present day. It was
settled by Illyrians in 350 BC. In 10 B.C. the Roman emperor Octavian Augustus declared the town of Rab a municipality and thus independent.
Under Emperor Septimius Severus, as a developed and civilized city, it
received the epithet Felix (happy). Felix Arba became an important center of the eastern Adriatic coast.
Rab and Salona (today Solin) are the
only places in present-day Croatia this honor was bestowed upon. From Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and Hungarians to Croatian kings -
the island had many rulers. The history and rich cultural heritage of the town is reflected in the
various buildings and styles, as well as the valuable works of art and cultural monuments of the island, which have been preserved until today.
While strolling through the city, you can still
feel the spirit of the past. You can admire
beautiful palaces from the Gothic and Renaissance periods, or explore the slick
medieval streets and alleys, which are full of life.
On
Gornja ulica (Upper Street) you will find beautiful
sacral buildings from early Christian times: the churches of St. Justina and St. John, the Cathedral Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Monastery of St. Andrew and
the four bell towers that form an unmistakable silhouette. Another attraction among many is
the Duke's Palace, which is made up of a group of palaces from different eras.
The building complex includes a square tower with enchanting windows from the late Gothic and Renaissance periods. One of my favorite places in the old town is the
square between the church of St. Justina and the palace Dominis. With its large oak tree and a beautiful view onto the sea, it is a
special meeting place for the people of Rab and their guests.
Stairs lead down to a promenade with bars and city beaches. There, as well as in many places in the whole city, they can enjoy the cultural offer of Rab.
About
200 events offer variety throughout the year and leave nothing to be desired. At the
street festival Kantuni (street corners) in August you can enjoy live music and traditional food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. One of the biggest events is the medieval summer festival Rabska Fjera. From 25 to 27 July, medieval fans can admire old crafts in the streets and watch crossbowmen demonstrate their skills.
Are you curious? Combine your stay in one of our luxurious
villas in the Kvarner Bay with a visit to the "happy island" and enjoy the rich cultural offer.
Maja Kovacevic
16.09.2020
MY ISTRIA GUIDE
