Hotels near Balbi Arch

The Balbi Arch marks the main entrance to the old town, standing where the inner town gate once stood before the island was joined to the mainland. Built in 1679 on the site of the old gate, it is named for the Venetian mayor Daniele Balbi, whose coat of arms it bears.

Look for the carved heads on either side of the arch - a Turk's head facing out and a Venetian's facing in, a reminder of the town's frontier history. The arch opens from the main square, Trg maršala Tita, into the tangle of lanes climbing toward the church, making it the natural gateway to a walk.

Pro Tip: It is free and always open. Pause to spot the two carved faces before you pass through, then use it as your entry point into the old town's maze.