On Slovenia’s Adriatic coast lies Izola, a picturesque town where history and the sea intertwine. Once a small island settlement, Izola has grown into a charming destination, blending its fishing traditions, Venetian architecture, and the easy rhythm of Mediterranean life. The very name Izola comes from the Italian Isola, meaning island. In centuries past, the town centre was separated from the mainland by a channel, only to be connected in the 19th century when the walls were dismantled and the waters filled in. Yet, the island spirit still lingers in its narrow streets and stone façades. The roots of Izola reach deep into antiquity. Nearby, the Romans built the port of Haliaetum as early as the 2nd century BC. The medieval town itself took shape in the 7th century, founded by refugees from Aquileia. Over time, it came under the sway of Venice, whose influence left a lasting imprint on the town’s culture, language, and graceful architecture. For centuries, Izola’s story followed the tides of empires—Venetian, Austrian, Italian, and later Yugoslav—before finally becoming part of independent Slovenia. Today, Izola carries this layered history with pride. Its old town, with winding alleys and colourful houses, opens onto a lively harbour where fishing boats share the waters with sleek yachts of the modern marina. The seafront cafés and family-run taverns invite visitors to sample freshly caught seafood and Istrian wines, while beaches along the Slovenian Riviera offer a place to unwind under the sun. For those wanting to dive deeper into the town’s maritime story, the Muzej Izolana is a must-see. This maritime museum captures Izola’s seafaring heritage through ship models, including 35 detailed examples significant to all of Slovenian Istria. Visitors can step aboard a real fishing boat, and experience a 3D projection that reveals Izola as it once was—an island surrounded by the Adriatic. The museum also shares insights into traditional model-making, the old Parenzana railway, and even the history of the Delamaris fish factory, which has long been tied to the town’s identity. Izola is also a town of journeys. A thermal spring discovered in 1820 drew some of the first visitors. Later, the narrow-gauge Parenzana railway linked it to Trieste and Poreč, weaving together communities across Istria. What makes Izola unforgettable is its atmosphere—a blend of maritime tradition, Mediterranean warmth, and centuries of history reflected in every stone and every wave. For those who wander its streets, Izola is not just a destination, but a story told by the sea. 回