Izola



Izola is an ancient Mediterranean town with a lively history on the Slovenian coast. The old part of the town rests upon what once used to be an island, which is where its name comes from. In Latin, 'isola' means 'an island'.

The fishing tradition is nowadays still present in Izola's tourist programs and cuisine. The local specialties include olive oil and home made vine. Positioned on the northern part of the Istra peninsula and having its own Marina the city remains one of the leading centers of nautical tourism.

History
The island was inhabited in the first century and was later connected to the mainland with a stone bridge. Izola used to be known as a city of the rebels. It has declared independence in 1253 and became a city with the proper laws and authority for a short period. In the 13th and 14th century there were also some "city wars" with the two neighbours Piran and Koper. In 1820 the thermal spring was discovered and so the first steps toward tourism started. Later the fishing industry began to flourish, as the first fishing factory along the Adriatic coast was built. The city was surrounded by a wall until 19th century, when it was pulled down and the material used to cover the sea between the island and the mainland.

Get in
Izola is connected to neighbouring Koper, Piran and Portoroz by frequent buses. Train connections to Ljubljana are available from Koper.

Do
Lots of shows, horse riding courses, sailing courses, fish picnic on a fishboat, walks in the nature, biking.
 * Take a journey through the medieval alleys of the city centre and admire its unusual architecture telling its exciting history.

Events

 * IsolaCinema is an international film festival taking place usually in May - June each year.