crkva svetog Martina biskupa

The Church of St. Martin the Bishop (Crkva svetog Martina biskupa) is the parish church of Sveti Lovreč, a small town in the interior of Istria, Croatia. It is the town's best-known monument and one of the most interesting examples of early Romanesque architecture on the peninsula.

Where is the church?

It stands on the main square of Sveti Lovreč, in the heart of the old town. The municipal loggia is built against its southern wall, so the square and the church read as a single ensemble. A short walk through the centre brings you to its doors.

What does it look like, and how old is it?

It is a three-aisled basilica with three apses. Tourism sources date it to the 11th century, and it was renovated in the middle of the 20th century. Descriptions differ on its rank: some call it the largest Romanesque church in Istria, others the best-preserved early Romanesque church on the peninsula. Either way, it is an exceptional building for the region.

What should you see inside?

The frescoes

The northern and southern apses preserve frescoes from the period of the Ottonian Renaissance, from the early life of the church. The northern apse also carries a later layer of paintings from the 14th century, made under Italian influence. Two distinct styles, separated by several centuries, can be seen in one place. The church is also part of the regional "Istrian frescoes" trail promoted by Istrian tourism.

The organ

The interior holds the oldest organ in Istria. It was built in 1735 by master Petar Nakić (Pietro Nacchini) and restored in 2013. For lovers of music and craftsmanship, it is a reason to visit in its own right.

Can you go inside?

The key is kept at the parish office in Sveti Lovreč. If the doors are closed, ask there. It is worth planning ahead and checking locally how visits are arranged.

Frequently asked questions

When was the church of St. Martin built?

In the 11th century, according to Istrian tourism sources. It was renovated in the mid-20th century.

What is special about the frescoes?

The frescoes in the northern and southern apses date from the Ottonian Renaissance period, and the northern apse also has a 14th-century layer showing Italian influence.

What is the organ?

The oldest organ in Istria, built by Petar Nakić in 1735 and restored in 2013.

Where do I get the key?

At the parish office in Sveti Lovreč.

Is this the same as the church of St. Lawrence?

No. The town also has a separate church dedicated to St. Lawrence. St. Martin's is a different building on the main square.

Who is it for?

It suits anyone interested in Romanesque architecture, medieval wall painting and the history of the organ. It also makes a good stop on a tour of central Istria, combined with a stroll through the lanes of Sveti Lovreč and a look at the municipal loggia on the main square. With a little planning, a visit lets you see one of the oldest surviving churches in the region.