Since its early days, the rapidly developing port has played a significant role in the development of Koper and the wider local community. Preparatory works for port’s construction began in April 1957, and four months later construction started on the first 135 metres of operational quay. At the same time, a 900‑metre embankment was constructed between Koper and the mouth of the Rižana River, enclosing the Škocjanski Zatok area and playing a key role in shaping its appearance as we know it today.
On 7 December 1958, the first berth was officially opened, marked by the arrival of the ocean-going vessel Gorica, owned by the shipping company Splošna plovba Piran. The construction of the first quay was soon followed by the building of additional storage facilities and the second, third, and fourth berths. In parallel with the development of the waterfront, multi‑purpose and specialised warehouses were erected in the port’s hinterland. In 1962, the company Pristanišča Koper was renamed Luka Koper. Five years later, in 1967, the port gained its rail connection to the hinterland – the 31‑kilometre line to Prešnica – which enabled the Port of Koper to become fully integrated into the European railway network.
Port of Koper Open Day
As every year, the Port of Koper will celebrate its anniversary with Open Day, when the port opens its gates to the public, offering free guided tours by bus, boat, and bicycle, along with a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. This year’s Port of Koper Open Day will take place on Saturday, 31 May 2025, at the Passenger Terminal, starting at 10:00 a.m. More information about the programme is available at www.zivetispristaniscem.si/kako-obiscem-pristanisce, where free tickets for the guided port tours will be available from Wednesday, 28 May, at 10:00 a.m.
