The organization of a free city tour of Poreč on the occasion of the celebration of the Day of International Recognition of the Republic of Croatia once again highlighted the importance of connecting citizens with the rich cultural heritage of their environment. The Tourist Board of the City of Poreč, in collaboration with the Association of Tourist Guide Societies of Croatia, prepared an interesting and educational program that gathered local residents and visitors eager to learn more about the history of this beautiful city on the Adriatic coast.

A Journey Through Poreč's History

The tour began with the gathering of participants at Freedom Square on January 12th, where they were greeted by an experienced guide, Jadranko Mates. During the two-hour walk, participants had the opportunity to travel through centuries of Poreč's history, discovering how the city developed from ancient times to the present day. Special emphasis was placed on unique historical details that enrich the city's identity, including those often hidden from the eyes of average passersby.

The Euphrasian Basilica and Roman Traces

Among the most important stops on the route was a visit to the Euphrasian Basilica, a unique monument of early Christian architecture from the 6th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site fascinates visitors with its mosaics and architectural details that tell the story of the historical and religious significance of Poreč. In addition to the basilica, the tour included Marafor Square, a former Roman sanctuary, where participants could see the remains of ancient temples and other structures that testify to Poreč's greatness during the ancient period.

Broader Dimensions of the "Discover Your Land" Project

The "Discover Your Land" project was launched to raise awareness in the local community about the wealth of historical and cultural resources in their area. It is also an opportunity to promote the tourist offerings of Poreč and its surroundings, emphasizing the value of preserving national identity through educational content. The initiative was first introduced in 2018 and has been regularly held since then with the support of the Croatian National Tourist Board.

Community Response and Future Plans

More than fifty participants joined this year's tour, which is clear proof of interest in such projects. Organizers announced the continuation of similar activities, targeting not only local residents but also tourists who increasingly choose Poreč as a content-rich destination.

Cultural Heritage as a Basis for Tourism Development

Cultural and historical tourism is becoming an increasingly significant segment of the tourist offering in Croatia. Cities like Poreč, with their rich heritage, have the opportunity to attract visitors not only during the summer months but also off-season, offering them an authentic experience of discovering local culture. Tourist guides play a crucial role in this process, passing on knowledge and passion for history to all generations of visitors.

The Importance of Such Events for the Local Community

In addition to contributing to the popularization of cultural and historical landmarks, such events strengthen the connection between citizens and their community. Participants are often surprised at how much rich history their own city holds, further motivating the preservation of local heritage. Organizers state that these projects not only promote tourism but also raise awareness of the importance of cultural and historical heritage as part of the national identity.

Message from the Organizers

The Tourist Board of the City of Poreč thanked all participants for their attendance and expressed satisfaction with the success of this year's event. They also invited citizens and visitors to follow announcements of future activities to continue discovering the hidden beauties and historical stories that make Poreč special.