KOPER

Italian Capodistria, seaport in Slovenia, southwest of Trieste. Formerly an island, it was connected to the mainland by a causeway (1825) and drainage works. The port's narrow streets and old houses reflect a Venetian influence. On Titov Trg, the main square, stand a cathedral and the former residence of the Venetian governors. Koper was known as Capris by the Romans before the growth of Slav settlements in the area in the 7th century. It was captured in 1279 by the Venetians from the patriarchs of Aquileia and refortified, after which it was made capital of Istria, whence Capodistria. It was held by Napoleonic France (17971813), then by the Austrian Empire (18131918), and then by Italy. After World War II, Koper was part of the Free Territory of Trieste until it became part of Yugoslavia in 1954. Salt is obtained locally from seawater in Koper. There is a new port; industries include a radio factory and an automobile-assembly plant. Pop. (1981) 23,581.