Novigrad is one of those coastal towns in Istria that immediately pulls you in with its atmosphere. Walking its narrow streets and seeing the colorful facades reflected on the Adriatic Sea, it’s easy to understand why this place has been continuously settled for centuries. While it might look like a quiet seaside town today, its past is anything but simple.
The photo I captured here shows the essence of Novigrad’s old town — its narrow streets with old houses clustered on a small peninsula. For me, what makes photographing Novigrad special is the way history and daily life blend so naturally. Every angle feels like a reminder that people have lived, traded, prayed, and defended this place for well over a thousand years.
Novigrad has roots stretching back to ancient times, when it was known as Neapolis in the 7th century and later Civitas Nova in the 9th. It became the seat of a bishopric in the 5th or 6th century, lasting until 1831. Because of its strategic location and fertile surroundings, Novigrad experienced moments of prosperity but also long stretches of hardship. The town flourished during the 8th and 9th centuries under Frankish rule but later declined in the 16th and 17th centuries due to wars and disease. Through the centuries, Novigrad adapted under Byzantine, Venetian, Austrian, and even Napoleonic control, each period leaving behind traces that are still visible today. This layering of cultures gives the town its unique character, making every walk through its streets feel like a journey through time.
Exploring Novigrad goes beyond just admiring the sea views — it’s about noticing the details that hint at its rich past. From old churches to remnants of fortifications, the history is everywhere, waiting to be photographed and experienced. If you’re looking to dive deeper into Istria’s heritage, this town is a must-visit.
If you’d like to see more of my photography from Novigrad and other parts of Croatia, visit the Explore page. You can also follow my daily photography journey and behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram at @croatia_captured.