Istrian stone is a solid and compact rock that is primarily quarried from the Istrian peninsula (near Croatia). When freshly extracted, the stone ranges in color from pink to light green, but over time, due to exposure to atmospheric agents, it fades to a paler gray.
It is mainly extracted from the quarries of Montauro in the Rovinj region, and near the cities of Poreč and Pula.
Istrian stone has a history closely tied to the urbanization of Venice. It was imported starting from the annexation of the Istrian cities to the Republic of Venice between 1267 and 1335. The Venetians extensively used it to construct floors, bridges, canals, houses, churches, and palaces until the 18th century. During the Gothic period, it was also used in sculpture as a substitute for Venetian-Byzantine marble. The winged lion, symbolizing the power of Venice and sculpted in Istrian stone, is a notable example.
Moreover, Istrian stone has played an important role in the prestigious constructions of the city of Ancona, where it was widely used. Although in some cases it has been replaced with limestone from Monte Conero, which mimics its color, it has remained the principal stone for prestigious works in the city.
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