Cres has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as evidenced by prehistoric ruins. Fortified settlement developed along the coast of the island below the ridge where the prehistoric ruins and ancient castles (Crexa, Crepsa), on the opposite side of the Christian and abandoned old Croatian settlements in Lovreska Cove on the eastern side of the island.
Until the arrival of Croats in this area in the sixth and 7 century, Cres has been inhabited Liburnii, but there are traces of Greek, Roman and Byzantine presence. The presence and influence of Greek culture in this area confirm the material remains (amphorae, coins), while the Roman rule in the region has left the most traces.

Today marked with the medieval harbor "mandrac", Gothic and Renaissance churches and monasteries, noble families' palaces and the remains of the city's fortifications. Until the end of the period of Venetian domination Cres remained confined within the city walls, but outside the urban area are the only two monasteries. Big changes development of seafaring and shipbuilding in the mid 19th century.

Important historical and cultural buildings in Cres are:
1. Three town gates, Bragadina, Marcel and the St. Miku from 16th st.
2. Round, corner tower on the city's northwest
3. Sv. Isidore of 12th st
4. A number of Gothic, Renaissance and kasnogotskih chapels and churches of which is the church of Sv. Mary Snow from 16th century and the bell tower from the 18th st
5. Town loggia with pillory
6. Franciscan monastery from approximately 1300 to the church of Sv. Francis from the 14th century and the bell tower from the 18th st
7. Female bendiktinski monastery from the 15th st
8. Palace of the family Patris from the 15th century, which houses the Museum
9. Anumber of other Renaissance palaces of noble families from Cres