The Renovated Interiors of Piran’s “Venetian” Now Open to the Public

Visitors and locals alike will have to get used to the building’s new light pastel color that has replaced the previous bright red. Photo: Lea Širok

The second floor and the attic contain two upscale rooms for tourists. Photo: Lea Širok

After a number of complications, delays, and controversies about the exterior appearance of Piran’s “Venetian” building, which dates back to the Republic of Venice, the first visitors could see the results of a renovation project organized by the Etigraf company, which leases the building.

Visitors and locals alike will have to get used to the building’s new light pastel color that has replaced the previous bright red. Photo: Lea Širok Foto:

benečanka — The second floor and the attic contain two upscale rooms for tourists. Photo: Lea Širok

As part of the project, the interior of this architectural jewel has been renovated and furnished, enabling various new uses. Based on the first reactions, the new appearance of the “Venetian’s” interior has won over even those who still insist that its exterior should once again be painted red.

Because of the complications with the building’s exterior, the interior renovations took at least a month more than had been planned. Even so, representatives of the Etigraf company say they are pleased to have had their ideas realized.

Piano Nobile now offers items made out of crystal glass, jewelry and sparkling wine, explained Gorazd Senčar: “We want to promote quality Slovenian goods – products that promote us, Slovenia, and Slovenia’s craftspeople.”

The second floor and the attic contain two upmarket rooms for tourists. The furnishings were designed by Etigraf, a family company, and made by local craftspeople. “These days, there aren’t many makers of new wood furniture. We ultimately decided to make the furniture at a carpentry workshop in Koper, where it was also painted,” Senčar explained.

Details about the two rooms, how to rent them, and their prices will all be published on a special website devoted to the “Venetian.” When asked about the price, Senčar told us: “When setting the price, we’ll ensure that the rooms are accessible to the general public, especially the upstairs room.”

Irena Dolinšek, a long-time employee in the tourist industry, is, along with many people of Piran, a firm advocate of keeping the “Venetian” red, but she was won over by the interior design: “The interior should be remembered, because this is a family with four generations that will end up giving a new spirit to the building. Before, it had the spirit of the Del Bello family, but now it’s the Senčars’.”

The renovated Venetian will also be promoted in brochures. Members of the family are considering naming one of the rooms after the Piran woman who caught the eye of a Venetian merchant in the 15^th century. According to the local legend, he had the “Venetian” built just for her, so they could continue to see each other.

Lea Širok, Radio Koper

Translated by J.B.