If you spend two or three days exploring Umag, you'll have the opportunity to thoroughly acquaint yourself with this charming town and visit many of its attractions. Don't miss the Church of the Ascension of the Virgin Mary and St. Peregrinus in Umag's historic quarter. Adjacent to it, you'll find a bell tower adorned with an ancient clock. Inside the church, you can discover relics that bear witness to the city's rich history. The church tower is adorned with a white stone relief of a lion, the emblem of the Republic of Venice, which was preserved during a fire in the city hall. There are also several delightful cafes located in the main square near the temple.
The Church of St. Rok, another notable landmark in Umag, often receives significant attention in guidebooks. It was constructed in 1514 as a place of worship to seek protection from the plague that was rampant in the region at the time. Located on a small street, the church may appear unassuming from the outside. Without prior knowledge of its significance, you might walk by without capturing a single photo of Umag's main attraction. However, the church showcases Gothic architecture and houses preserved paintings, as well as fragments of the altar. Today, it also hosts a small gallery featuring works by local artists, with services held only on the day dedicated to honoring St. Roch.
In general, the entire historic district of Umag, aptly named the Old Town, is steeped in history. As you stroll through its streets, you'll encounter remnants of fortress walls dating back to the Early Middle Ages and Renaissance-era buildings. For a deeper understanding of Umag's earlier history, you can visit the city museum. This museum houses a collection of artifacts unearthed during archaeological excavations in the resort. You won't need a map to find this attraction, as it's also situated within the Old Town, specifically in the Western Tower.
For those interested in exploring the sights of Umag that are described but located further from the resort's center, there are a couple of interesting options:
The lighthouse in Savudrija - the oldest lighthouse on the Adriatic coast, often seen as a symbol of Austrian Count Metternich's love for a Croatian woman;
Ruins of Fort Sipar - situated on a 200-meter cape between Zambratija and Katoro, visible during low tide. These ruins date back to the 5th century and include remnants of ancient fortifications. Sipar met its demise in the 9th century at the hands of pirates. Excavations on the cape have yielded ancient coins, household items, and fragments of ancient mosaics. Today, this location is popular among nudists for relaxation.
