The first breath of life in Istria occurred early in the older Palaeolithic. It is estimated that the bat stone found in Šandalja cave near Pula is old between 2 million and 800 000 years. There are also findings from the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Age, when there was already large population at the peninsula; it is evidenced by the existence of over 400 forts with a special technique of building, dry-stone: that technique is still highly esteemed and remains impressive.
History of Istria is rich and turbulent, various rulers, which is why even today in many areas the impact of various interwoven cultural circles can be felt, which further contributes to the wealth of experience – from Histri, who are considered the first inhabitants and by whom it was named, through Roman and Byzantine, Avar-Slavic attacks, Charles the Great and Venice from the medieval period, continued by Napoleon..
Each era left its stamp on this small region, making it ultimately stronger and special. Its residents have recognized the potential and its distinctiveness, nurturing what history left there as legacy and have turned Istria in one of the most desirable tourist destinations that truly has something to offer during all four seasons.
Istria is a diverse place – the magical blue of the sea set alight by sunshine, white stones and the magic of fragrant, green forests, fields and vineyards make a perfect harmony. A variety of the adornment which nature has generously endowed to this part of the planet-the national park Brijuni – archipelago of 14 islands, is an interesting touch of nature, autochthonous and allochthonous species of luxurious flora and fauna with a historical heritage – sites and objects (the Neolithic period onwards), which makes treasury of rich artistic and historical value. Then Lim bay, park Učka, Motovun Forest, cape Kamenjak, Mramornica cave are just some of the many natural attractions where you can immerse yourself in the nature and the treasures it hides.
When we talk about the fruits of nature, Istria is primarily known for its olives and grapes flourish, Mediterranean cultures of exceptional quality in this area-therefore the wine and olive oil are symbolic of Istria. There are, of course, indispensable truffles, expensive
mushrooms hidden in the heart of the earth. They represent the ultimate delicacy, and the Istrian white truffle is one of the most respected in the world. Fish, shellfish, molluscs, game, vegetables, wild plants in the intoxication of aromatic spices, wines and oils are part of the luxury and magic of Istrian cuisine, and we urge you to experience Istria through the dimension of food and wine!
Towns and villages in Istria, both in coastal areas and inland, are also part of the region that will intrigue your senses and stir your imagination. They will captivate you with its charms and grace, with majestic architectural creations and monuments that evoke the past and represent witnesses of a turbulent history. There you will be able to experience a rich cultural offer in the form of concerts, exhibitions, various events, film festivals and numerous other attractions. Considering that a rich historical and cultural heritage of Istria was born and created in the cities, let’s meet some of them.
For the city of Pula we have records of the permanent settlement since the 10th century BC. In Roman times it was the administrative centre of Istria, and today it represents the largest economic and cultural centre of Istria. Various historical stages and changes of the rule have created a variety of architectural richness, of which the most significant one is the famous amphitheatre, the Pula Arena. She is one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world. Today you can enjoy high quality cultural events in it, from concerts to film festivals, and you’ll experience the amazing close encounter with Roman history in which the imposing edifice radiates.
Only a few kilometres away from Pula are towns Vodnjan and Fažana. You can also see the Brijuni Islands, the only national park in Istria.
But if you go to the Istria inland you will find towns and cities that are actually medieval fortresses; Grožnjan, Motovun or Buzet will give you peace and privacy, with a premium culinary and wine tourism offering. Motovun, a small town on the hill known since prehistoric times, is special for its famous Motovun forest that is the habitat of the best truffles in the world. A rich cultural background is offered by Pazin, who’s (sometimes established by Habsburgs) castle Kaštel now operates Ethnographic Museum of Istria and the town of Pazin.
Inspiring art can definitely be experienced in Labin, a town full of art studios. Going to the sea in Rabac, you’ll see a former fishing village, now the pearl of Istria rich tourist offer.
If you go the other side, along the western coast of Istria, the inevitable city to visit, after Medulin and Pula, is definitely Rovinj. This town still has preserved a high rocky coast and houses built on the cliffs, while the mainland is surrounded by high walls. The atmosphere of this city is unspeakably sentimental, and the culmination of your experience will definitely be the church of St. Euphemia, a baroque building in Venetian style. Built on a hill to which all the streets of this city lead, it represents the most important cultural monument of Rovinj.
Vrsar and Funtana, small fishing villages between Poreč and Lim canal with its unique archipelago of idyllic islands, green atmosphere and crystal clear waters offer you perfect conditions for relaxation.
A cultural monument, so significant that it is included in the list of World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, is the Euphrasian basilica in Poreč. It was built in the 6th century in the Byzantine style. Mosaics which are painted are one of the most beautiful preserved Byzantine works in the world. Poreč, other than the beauty of its streets and buildings which clearly show that the city is the former Roman colony offers a wide range of tourist services. Besides the beautiful indented coastline and mysterious islands, excellent gastronomy and accommodations, it is full of entertainment and recreational facilities. During the past few years it has also become a popular destination for many athletes from all over the world.
However, the central place of sport facilities in Istria is definitely the city of Umag. This city besides beautiful beaches and hotels also offers areas specifically equipped for riding, walking, biking, as well as almost a hundred tennis courts. Also, Umag hosts the famous ATP tournament each summer, along with supporting contents, that attracts more than 70 000 guests.
Guests are not lacking in Novigrad, the town that dates from the ancient times. Although once a fishing town, tourism today is one of the most important industries. Out of cultural attractions we can point out Novigrad Lapidarium, a museum collection of 93 stone monuments from the ancient and medieval times. The parish church of Saint Pelagius and Saint Maximus, built in the early Christian era, is a basilica nowadays where a deep corps with Baroque altar stands in front of an early Romanesque crypt. This crypt is the only one of its kind in Istria and one of the few in Croatia.
Indeed, it is difficult to summarize the experiences and opportunities that Istria can provide. She is one of the most developed Croatian regions, and its focus on the preservation and nurturing of the authentic cultural historical and culinary heritage in conjunction with the quality of the service encourages you to visit and to experience its natural beauty.
Photos: Istra tourist board
