Labin lies in eastern Istria, its historic centre rising above the lower town. The hilltop buildings form a recognisable silhouette visible from afar.
The Bell Tower of St. Justus stands by the highest part of the old centre, near the Fortica Viewpoint and some distance from today's parish church.
It was built in 1623 on the site of the former Church of St. Justus, which was connected to Labin's earliest religious history. The town tourist board states that a new bell tower rose after a fire, while only remains of the church survive. The tower is therefore a landmark in its own right, although its name preserves the memory of the older church.
The tall stone shaft rises above the town houses and ends in openings for the bells and a prominent top. From afar the tower is a point of orientation; close up, it is part of the dense network of old Labin's routes.
Besides marking religious time, its bells warned of extraordinary events, including storms and mining accidents. The tower was therefore a practical signal for the town, not merely an accent in its skyline. On the way towards Fortica, its position can be seen in relation to the highest part of the old settlement and the viewpoint at its edge.
Photo: 900085-0
Photo: 900085-1
HR-CRO - Croatia
