Porec

The Euphrasy's Basilica in Porec is the most The Euphrasy's Basilica in Porec is the best preserved cultural monument of the Byzantine architecture in the world, and has been protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage sight since 1997. It is a sacral complex founded in the time of the bishop Euphrasy's in the 6th century A.D. Aside from the basilica, the complex also consists of a court, a baptistery, a memorial chapel, mosaics and sacral images. The mosaics are well preserved, and can be compared to the mosaics in the church in Ravenna, Italy. By looking at the mosaics, it is possible is possible to deduct the various phases of building, the alterations and the restorations. In the central part of the basilica there is a stature of the Virgin Mary with Jesus Christ, surrounded by angels. There is also a statue of Euphrasy's holding a model of the church together with his nephews. Underneath you can find mosaics depicting, amongst other things, the birth of Christ. The basilica achieved its final form between the 13th and 15th century, while the clock tower was built in the 16th century. Excursions to the basilica are organized daily, except during religious ceremonies.