Muggia

Description

In the last stretch of Italy, the coast seems to fall back on itself and this is where Muggia Bay lies, a typical Istrian-Venetian resort. When you dock at the picturesque harbour, it will almost seem as if you are entering the narrow Venetian lanes and small squares. The Venetian atmosphere is not only inspired by the architecture; the dialect, customs and gastronomic traditions reveal an intense past shared with the Most Serene Republic of Venice. If you look at Muggia from the sea, the white Istrian stones and the colourful houses create a harmonious whole with the green Karst environment. It is framed by seven kilometres of coastline and a range of hills that dominate over a vast Italian and Istrian area.

Just before the year 1000, a small town called Borgolauro developed in the valley at the marina; the Municipality of Muggia stemmed from this new village in the thirteenth century. The cathedral and town hall, which were rebuilt in the twentieth century, are from that era. However, up on the headland that overlooks the harbour, there is evidence of an even older history: the remains of the protohistoric castellieri (fortified boroughs) of Santa Barbara and Muggia Vecchia, where the Romanesque Basilica of Muggia Vecchia (9th century) stands as the only testament, together with the remains of the walls, of a Roman and medieval past. From here you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Gulf of Trieste. Muggia Castle dates back to the 14th century, although it has been restructured several times over the centuries and once dominated the defensive circle of walls around the town. Interestingly enough, Muggia’s inhabitants used its original sandstone blocks to build their homes. Even today, this small town boasts a unique atmosphere when you stroll through the narrow Venetian-style lanes and the beautiful Piazza Marconi, the pulsating heart of the town, or stop at the Mandracchio to watch the fishermen at work.

Do not miss out on the Muggia Carnival, or “Carneval de Muja”, whose classical and traditional Venetian origins mix with influences from the Istrian peninsula; an amazing show which includes colourful floats and masks each year.