It stands on a ridge overlooking the sea, which is why St. George’s Cathedral can be seen from anywhere in the city. It can be seen from the waterfront as you enter Piran and it continues to be seen on Tartini Square, from where the road to the sacred building starts. The church owes its name to the patron saint of the town, St. George, who is said to have saved Piran during a storm.
The present size of the church dates back to the 14th century, while its present configuration dates back to the 17th century during the Baroque reconstruction. The interior of the church is adorned with an organ, two relief sculptures of St. George, a richly decorated ceiling and wall paintings of the Venetian school of painting.
The bell tower, which dates back to 1609, resembles that of St. Mark’s, and it is no coincidence that it was built on the model of the Venetian basilica. It is 47 metres high and, if you find it open, you can climb the 146 steps and enjoy the view of the sea from up there. But also from the grassy square in front of the church you can enjoy a spectacular view over the city to the sea. Next to it there is also the octagonal baptistery from 1650.
The church can be reached by two different roads: whichever of the two you took uphill, you can come back down the other and complete your visit of the city.
