Franciscan Monastery Rovinj

Rovinj stands out on the west coast for its intriguing history, especially since it initially lacked a Franciscan monastery during the early days of the order. It wasn't until the tail end of the fifteenth century that the Diocese of San Geronimo decided to establish one on St. Andrew's Island, often referred to as Red Island, near Rovinj. This monastery was built on the site of an ancient sixth-century Benedictine hospice and church. Legend has it that St. John of Capistrano, a renowned missionary known for his battles against the Turks, founded the monastery. Interestingly, his remains rest in the Franciscan monastery of Ilok in eastern Croatia.

Fast forward to 1807: after nearly four centuries, the Napoleonic authorities closed the Saint Andrew monastery. But the story didn't end there. In the early eighteenth century, St. Anthony's Franciscan reformers constructed a new monastery in the northern, continental part of Rovinj. At that time, this area was not yet connected to the mainland.

In 1696, the Rovinj City Council extended an invitation to the Franciscans to build a new hospice. The Doge Alvise Mocenigo gave his blessing in 1700, and by 1702, construction of the church and hospice was underway. This project marked a first for Rovinj: explosives were used to create rock tanks for collecting rainwater. Visiting Rovinj today offers a chance to explore these layers of history and marvel at how the city has evolved over time. Wandering through its cobblestone streets, you can feel the echoes of the past, from the tales of ancient monks to the bold innovations of the city's builders. Plus, the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea provide the perfect backdrop for a journey through history.