CARPACCIO SQUARE
Named after the renowned Venetian painter Vittore Carpaccio, Carpaccio Square in Koper blends a rich artistic heritage with historical significance. It serves as a reminder of the town’s maritime history and pays tribute to one of the most influential artists of the Renaissance.
The square is located near the Taverna, a historic Venetian salt warehouse, and is a key component of Koper’s cultural and historical landscape. The square, which once served as the town’s vital harbor, now attracts visitors with its historical and artistic significance. During the warmer months, the square offers a pleasant atmosphere where visitors can enjoy relaxed socializing over food and drinks at the terraces of local bars.
Carpaccio Square, the final in a series of peripheral squares around Koper, remains an important cultural and historical space that retains its original spatial characteristics. It is the site of the Carpaccio House, reputed to be the home and workshop of Vittore Carpaccio or his son Benedetto. In front of the house is Justine’s Pillar, an important monument dedicated to the victory over the Turks at Lepanto. The square is also adorned with other historical features, such as a mid-15th-century fountain brought from Venice.
Justine’s Pillar, standing in front of Carpaccio’s House, remains a fascinating monument that continues to intrigue historians and researchers. Erected to commemorate the historic victory over the Turks at Lepanto, Justine’s Pillar is one of the most significant monuments related to the Battle of Lepanto in Istria. The statue at the top of the pillar, dedicated to the podestà Andre Giustiniano, further emphasizes the connection between Koper and its Venetian history and art.
The fountain adorning the square is another testament to the rich historical heritage that Carpaccio Square has to offer. Brought from Venice and installed in the square in the 20th century, the fountain symbolizes the enduring connection between Koper and the Venetian Republic, reflecting its artistic and architectural traditions.
Carpaccio Square is more than just a historical meeting place; it is a space that integrates the historical, cultural, and artistic layers of Koper. Visitors to the square can immerse themselves in the past while admiring the art and architecture that have shaped the town’s rich history. The square provides a unique insight into the fusion of local and international heritage, highlighting Koper’s rich history and vibrant cultural identity.
What to do?
The village of Popetre has been on the windward path since Roman times. Take a walk to the important points…
