Lighthouse near Rovinj: Coast and an Istrian excursion
Leuchtturm Sveti Ivan na pučini. Foto: Arnoldius / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0; für die Webausgabe verkleinert.
Photo: Arnoldius
Key facts about the lighthouse near Rovinj
- This is the Sv. Ivan na pučini lighthouse, locally known as La Lanterna.
- It stands on a rocky islet measuring around 70 by 50 metres off Rovinj, the outermost islet in an archipelago of 13 islands.
- The lighthouse was built in 1853; the octagonal stone tower is 23 metres tall.
- A small landing and a crane serve smaller boats; access is by water.
- In summer, water taxis offer trips to various places in the archipelago by arrangement.
- The lighthouse is inhabited and includes two apartments.
La Lanterna on the islet of Sv. Ivan
The name refers to the Sv. Ivan na pučini lighthouse, locally known as La Lanterna, not to the neighbouring island of Sv. Ivan. The tower stands on a bare rocky islet measuring about 70 by 50 metres off Rovinj, at the outer edge of the archipelago of 13 islands. The islet lies off the Istrian coast and is reached by sea.
The lighthouse was built in 1853. The octagonal stone tower is 23 metres tall. A keeper lives there permanently, and the building contains two apartments.
Boat access and what to expect on a visit
There is a small landing and a crane for smaller boats on the islet. Private water taxis travel to various destinations in the archipelago in summer by arrangement. If you are planning a trip to the lighthouse, confirm the exact destination and whether landing is possible with the boat operator in advance.
The islet’s rocks are suitable for sunbathing, and there are two small, shallow coves on opposite sides. The shore is rocky, so swimming requires safe access and suitable conditions. Because currents can be strong and changeable, swimmers should stay close to the islet.
Rovinj as a base and where to stay
Rovinj is the starting point for the boat trip to the islet. Staying in town keeps the waterfront, harbour and departure points within reach; the exact location matters for getting to the water and back. Find suitable accommodation in Croatia by choosing according to distance from the harbour and town centre. Travellers can explore the old town and harbour on land in Rovinj; Istria also includes other coastal towns such as Poreč.
If you want to visit several places along the west coast, you can plan Poreč as a separate stop; Umag adds another option. Rovinj lies on the Istrian coast of Croatia. The Istria region connects Rovinj with other destinations on the peninsula. For routes and day trips, see getting around and travel planning. The rocky shore, coves and clear coastal landscape are part of nature and scenery.
Frequently asked questions about the lighthouse near Rovinj
Which lighthouse is referred to as La Lanterna?
La Lanterna is the local name for the Sv. Ivan na pučini lighthouse on a small rocky islet off Rovinj. It is the outermost islet in an archipelago of 13 islands, not the neighbouring island of Sv. Ivan.
How old is the lighthouse?
The lighthouse was built in 1853; the octagonal stone tower is 23 metres tall.
How can you arrange a boat trip to the lighthouse?
Private water taxis travel to various destinations in the archipelago in summer by arrangement. You can arrange a trip to the lighthouse as a specific destination with the boat operator.
What should you keep in mind when swimming around the islet?
Because sea currents can change, swimmers should stay close to the islet. Dolphins should also be left undisturbed.
