Casanova Tour in Vrsar – A Theatrical Walk Through History and Passion

Discover Why Casanova Chose Vrsar

Casanova visited Vrsar twice in the 1740s, first as a poor young priest and later as a soldier aboard a Venetian ship. In his Memoirs, he describes the Istrian coast as a discreet refuge, and Vrsar’s quiet, intimate atmosphere gave him the privacy he often craved. From an unknown man to a uniformed officer, his two visits reflect the transformations of his own life- and mark Vrsar as a place of escape, freedom and hidden passions.  In the Casanova Tour, we discover some peculiar, fun details from his stays in Vrsar, some of which are the fruit of artistic freedom, as the audience could see.

Characters Who Bring Casanova Tour to Life

The Casanova Tour cast brings history and legend to life with charm and humour.

The Casanova Tour performed by the Istra Inspirit crew is not just theatre; it is an interactive experience, as the audience becomes part of the story, which makes it even more interesting and engaging. In one hour, you walk, engage in humour and history, and become part of the show. The role of Giacomo Casanova is performed by Šandor Slacki, Don Gerolamo is Matija Ljuba, Conte Alessandro di Cagliostro is Dominik Dolenc, while Ana, the merchant of Vrsar, is Sedina Cerovec, and Katrina, Don Gerolamo’s wife, is Ivona Bulešić.

Meeting Point at the Tourist Office

Amaretto di Orsera, Vrsar’s signature hazelnut liqueur – a sweet taste of tradition.

The audience gathers over an aperitif in front of the Tourist Office of Vrsar, and before the tour starts, they can taste the delicious Amaretto di Orsera. For all of you who didn’t hear of it, Amaretto di Orsera is a distinctive local variant of the traditional amaretto liqueur, crafted not from almonds but from local Istrian hazelnuts, specifically the prized “Istarski duguljasti” (elongated) variety. 

After the audience tastes the aperitif, suddenly Don Gerolamo arrives agitated, accusing Casanova of dishonouring him and seducing his wife. The audience joined in his chase, which made the show fun right from the start. After that, the audience follows Don Gerolamo by the sea promenade, and they all climb slowly up the hill, leading to the old town of Vrsar.

Guided by Don Gerolamo, visitors explore Vrsar with laughter and curiosity.

The Climb Towards the Old Town

During the climb, we meet Giacomo Casanova for the first time. He enters a comical state in bedsheets and undergarments and starts a monologue about his life: his origins, travels, love affairs, and yearning for freedom. Don Gerolamo interrupts; the audience helps Casanova trick him (trapping him in the sheet), then flees with him. Casanova recalls his former friendship with Don Gerolamo, but he also confesses to the audience that he succumbed to temptation with Gerolamo’s wife, the true cause of today’s conflict.

Witty exchanges and theatrical flair light up the stone streets of Vrsar

During the climb, we also met Conte Alessandro di Cagliostro, who was a real historical figure (1743-1795). In the Casanova Tour, his presence is theatrical rather than documentary. The performance uses Cagliostro as a colourful, humorous foil to Casanova, someone who brings in mystery, alchemy, and wild stories. Both were adventurers, both travelled widely, and both became legendary figures of 18th-century Europe, though they likely crossed paths only briefly, if at all.

Vrsar Small Town Gate and Casanova’s Viewpoint

Casanova returns to his “refuge” in Vrsar, where history and legend intertwine

When the audience reaches the Vrsar small town gate, Casanova explains the symbolism of Vrsar’s small town gates, the Venetian lion, the bishop’s keys, the practice of closing gates and the strict control of town life.

Narrow streets of Vrsar turn into an open-air stage for Casanova’s adventures

Casanova is charmed by the Merchant Ana, her wit and beauty. She challenges him to see Vrsar’s beauty through her eyes, leading him to her favourite viewpoint, while Don Gerolamo interrupts once more, forcing Casanova to hide behind the audience. Ana shows Casanova and also the audience Casanova’s viewpoint. 

Bepo and Tonina Viewpoint

Casanova speaks of the importance of stone in Vrsar’s history, the bishop’s control of the quarries, and building with this stone. He remembers Friar Stefano, who tried to guide him towards spirituality. From this viewpoint, besides enjoying the amazing sunset, the audience meets a funny and young character, Katrina, who storms in, furious, and publicly humiliates Casanova.

Romance and drama meet the golden Adriatic sunset at Bepo and Tonina’s viewpoint.

St Martin’s Viewpoint Duel 

Don Gerolamo intercepts Casanova and challenges him to a duel. Casanova, lacking a sword, uses the umbrella instead. A comic duel ensues, full of wordplay and banter. They reconcile, embrace and become “friends”. Casanova closes with a monologue: in Vrsar, he has found refuge, people from all walks of life, and learnt that life is only worth living when embraced fully, without regret.

A lively duel scene draws the audience straight into Casanova’s playful world

Stay Close to the Story at Camping Orsera

Through the Casanova Tour, Vrsar reveals itself as a town of love, freedom and life lived without regret. It is the perfect way to discover its history, explore cultural highlights and enjoy an evening full of humour and adventure. Did you know that you can join for free the last performance this summer on September 16? 

Stay at Camping Orsera to experience this and so much more that Vrsar has to offer, from its rich history and lively culture to its beaches, flavours and sunsets. Perfectly positioned by the sea and only minutes from the old town, the campsite is the ideal starting point for discovering every side of Vrsar.