Balbi Arch

A historic city gate from 1680 that serves as the main entrance to the old town of Rovinj. Built on the site of former medieval gates, it is decorated with the head of a Turk (on the outside, facing the sea) and a Venetian (on the inside, facing the town) — symbols of Rovinj during the period of Venetian rule. Above the arch stands the Venetian Lion of St. Mark, the classic symbol of the Venetian Republic. It is one of the recognizable symbols of the historic core of Rovinj, and passing beneath the arch marks the entrance into the old part of the city.