Savudrija

Savudrija is the oldest active lighthouse in the Adriatic. It is also the most northern Croatian lighthouse on the northwestern cape of the Istrian peninsula.

It is 36 meters high (focal height) and 29 metres height. It is cylindrical stone tower with lantern and double gallery. The architect was Pietro Nobile. Its building begun in March 1817. By December some 80% of its overall height was finished. The local stone was used which was taken out from the nearby beach and was carved on the spot.the lighthouse’s roof is covered in tiles that weigh up to 70 kg and can withstand the strongest bora wind. Just over one year ago from the beginning of construction, on the night of 17 April 1818, it was already in use.

The building of the lighthouse was financed through the shares issued by the Stock Exchange Deputation.

This was the first lighthouse in the world to derive its light from coal distillation. The raw material came from coalmines on the eastern coast of Istria – Labin area. Oil was another possible source of light, in case of gas malfunctioning. Much more money than initially envisaged was spent due to the decision to have gas as an alternative source of energy.

The Savudrija-Salvore lighthouse is still amazing for its beauty. The lighthouse keepers were allowed to have a weapon and fire it, if necessary. The first ‘lighthouse assistants’ were Stefano Schmidt and Bartolomeo Micala. In 1828 the first was replaced by Giovanni Giacomo Maurel, member of a Savudrija-Salvore family which is still resident in the place. Today there is only one keeper, since the light has been automatized.

Although it is not totally isolated, the Savudrija lighthouse offers its own peace. It can talk the rich history of the Umag-Savudrija area, through the centuries.

On the Savudrija lighthouse, you can rent apartments and enjoy your holidays and find your peace.