Venetian house
Historical Palace, Piran
The Benečanka, or Venetian House, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Piran. Located at the corner of Tartini Square, it is considered the oldest preserved building on the square, built in the 15th century in the characteristic Venetian-Gothic style. It is known for its prominent corner balcony, its stone façade, and the plaque with the inscription “Lasa pur dir” (“Let them talk”), which refers to a local love legend.
During the time when Piran was part of the Venetian Republic, the city experienced a flourishing of maritime trade, attracting many wealthy merchants. Among them was the Venetian merchant Del Bello, who fell in love with a young and modest local woman from Piran. His love for her was so strong that he had the most beautiful house in the city built for her—right by the harbor, next to the Town Loggia—today known as Benečanka. But their romantic story did not escape the eyes of jealous and gossiping townspeople, who began spreading rumors about the couple. In response to the spiteful whispers, they decided to have a meaningful message carved into the façade: “Lasa pur dir”, meaning “Let them talk.” The inscription still adorns the house today and remains a symbol of unwavering love and defiance of prejudice.
Today, the Benečanka is home to the elegant Casa Veneziana, a boutique guesthouse with modern, air-conditioned rooms offering views of the sea or the town. On the ground floor, you’ll find a boutique shop offering select Slovenian sparkling wines and prestigious Rogaška crystal. It’s the perfect stop for lovers of architecture, history, and refined experiences in the heart of Piran.
