2. San Simon archaeological site
Based on more than a century of archaeological
research, especially in the last period, and due to archaeological, historical,
artistic, settlement-oriented, landscape and other exceptional characteristics,
they were declared a cultural monument of national importance. Archaeological findings were found on the surface of
four hectares. Remnants of a seaside Roman villa (villae maritimae) with a
commercial building and the largest port of the same period were discovered,
both representing one of the largest properties in this part of Istria. The
spaces of the Roman villa are paved with black and white mosaics of priceless
value. The port with two piers, which secure a safe mooring, is considered
typically Roman and it allowed the landing of vessels even with stronger
winds. At excavations in several places,
researchers encountered the remains of an ancient water supply system. The
Roman villa complex allows a thorough insight into the Italic civilization,
which once flourished in Istria. The residential area walls that were
discovered during the 20th century excavations are on display in the park,
while on the northern location there is a part of the reconstructed floor
mosaic from the residential zone, furthermore, the southern area discloses a
corridor connecting the villa to the port. In the backyard of the villa,
remains of the waterworks were also discovered, which provided water supply for
the whole building complex.