Municipality of Marčana – Coast, Culture and Routes

The municipality has a 36-kilometre indented coastline, stretching from Raša Bay in the north to Budava Bay in the south. Steep coastal slopes, deep waters, green peninsulas and hidden coves define the landscape features described here.

Marčana lies north of Pula at the intersection of the Pula–Labin and Vodnjan–Krnica roads. Other specific reference points for planning your visit and routes include Školjić Beach near Kavran and the St. Agnes viewpoint in Rakalj.

The coast is characterised by its indented shape and steep drop into the deep Adriatic Sea. Green peninsulas and hidden coves are also part of its character. At Školjić Beach, two underwater arches lie at a depth of three metres and are suitable for swimming through. If you are interested in underwater experiences, this is a distinctive feature of the beach.

Školjić is 2.5 kilometres from Kavran. The beach can be reached via a local road and gravel tracks. This information can help you include the beach as a separate stop in your travel plans; the distance is measured from Kavran. It should not be confused with the length of a hiking or cycling route.

In Rakalj, the birthplace of Mijo Mirković houses a memorial collection about his life, literary work and legacy. The collection also provides information about the local pottery tradition of Rakalj. Potters traditionally hand-shaped clay pots and fired them so they could withstand high temperatures. Literary heritage and a distinctive regional craft are presented side by side here.

Churches in various places offer further historical points of interest: the main altar of the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Mutvoran was created in 1533; the parish church of St. Peter and Paul in Marčana dates from the 15th century. In Stari Rakalj are the ruins of a former medieval castle and the Church of St. Agnes. These places offer different themes for a cultural trip, from church decoration to the remains of an earlier fortification.

In Loborika, the House of Cycling displays historical results, photographs, medals and trophies from BK Loborika. The exhibition also includes a video about cyclist Nevio Valčić’s life and sporting achievements. Those interested in regional sports history will find a different focus here than at the religious and literary cultural sites.

The path to the St. Agnes viewpoint in Rakalj runs for about two kilometres through Mediterranean maquis and past old dry-stone walls. The approximate route length and the landscape features described provide practical guidance for this walk. Cycling Route 344 Marčana starts below the settlement of Marčana, by Lokve Kalić; its length is not specified here.

There is also a regional connection for a pilgrimage: the 193-kilometre Camino South Istria pilgrimage route passes through the Municipality of Marčana. A pilgrimage takes place every year on the second Sunday in October at the Church of Our Lady of Health in Hreljići. The route and the annual pilgrimage are separate options to consider when planning your trip around a distance or a specific date.

Other place names within the municipality to help with your research: Šarići, Cokuni, Pinezići, Bratulići, Hreljići, Marčana, Divšići, Šegotići, Belavići, Filipana, Veliki Vareški, Kujici, Orbanići, Peruski, Loborika, Rakalj, Pavicini, Krnica and Kavran.

How long is the coastline of the Municipality of Marčana?

The indented coastline is 36 kilometres long and stretches from Raša Bay in the north to Budava Bay in the south.

When does the pilgrimage in Hreljići take place?

It takes place every year on the second Sunday in October at the Church of Our Lady of Health.

How long is the path to the St. Agnes viewpoint?

The path from Rakalj to the viewpoint is about two kilometres long and passes through Mediterranean maquis and by old dry-stone walls.

For the broader travel overview: Istria County.