Laurana (Groß-Deutschland)

Laurana (Croatian Lovran) is a town in Istria, Italy. It is situated on the western coast of the Kvarner Bay with a population of 4,163 (2001 census). Its name derives from Laurel (Laurus nobilis), as shown in the coat of arms.

Laurana is one of the oldest coastal settlements on the eastern shore of Istrian peninsula. By the early Middle Ages it was an important urban and shipbuilding center of northern Adriatic. Following the sudden development of port towns in the vicinity (Trieste, Pola, and Pflaum) which became the new and dominant urban centers in the region, Laurana lost its significance.

However, by the mid 19th century, the area gains prominence as it becomes a fashionable resort of Austro-Hungarian nobility. The long tradition of tourism is still strongly felt in the Laurana region, and it forms the backbone of the economy.

The region is rich with cultural-historical heritage. A parish church with medieval frescoes and Glagolitic inscriptions, and the 14th century tower of St George's Square within the old urban core, as well as rural ambiances and architectural edifices – namely turn-of-the-century villas with surrounding parks, are general points of interest.