Mestni stolp Koper

About the museum

The Koper bell tower, or town tower, is a 54-metre-high example of Romanesque defensive architecture. It is linked with the 12th century, although there is no reliable evidence; it was renovated between 1418 and 1480, and it received its present appearance in 1664. The great clock in the middle of the tower was made in 1463. Originally the tower stood alone, but in 1488 it was connected with the Church of the Assumption of Mary.

The tower already served as a fortified defensive point in the time of the patriarchs of Aquileia and in the early Venetian period. Hanging in it is the bell of St Nazarius, cast in Venice in 1333, the oldest bell still in working order in Slovenia. Over the centuries the bells regulated the life of the townspeople: they called to Mass, to work and to rest, and warned of dangers such as fires, storms, disease, shipwrecks, fog and war.

The tower now houses the new permanent exhibition “Pokončna zgodovina” (Upright History). It is designed as an experience unfolding during the climb up 204 steps, and it guides visitors through the stories, heritage and role of the tower in the identity of Koper. From the top there is a beautiful view of the town and its surroundings.

Highlights

• Permanent exhibition “Pokončna zgodovina” (Upright History) during the climb up 204 steps
• Bell of St Nazarius from 1333, the oldest bell still in working order in Slovenia
• View from the top of the 54-metre tower
• Great clock from 1463

Permanent exhibition

• Pokončna zgodovina – Permanent exhibition experienced during the climb of 204 steps, presenting the stories of Koper, its heritage and the role of the tower in the identity of the town.

Admission & discounts

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The climb to the tower involves 204 steps.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The tower stands on Titov trg in the centre of the old town of Koper, next to the cathedral.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit