Civilization is in Istria since the Bronze Age when people lived in fortified castles built on the hills. Many vestiges of this period are still present as well as buildings left by those who ruled Istria: Illyrians, Romans, Venetians and Austro-Hungarian.
Opatija in Istria
The Italians controlled the area until 1947 and at the end of the Second World War, they ceded it to Yugoslavia. Istria is now part of Croatia.
Istria is known for its coastal paradise and its rustic mountain hamlet. The region is not very large and it can be visited in a day which is enough to enjoy all it has to offer.
Istrian coast
Pula Amphitheater, Istria
The coast is surrounded by tourist towns and fishing villages. Pula is a port city with a Roman amphitheater built between 27 and 68 BCE… It was used for gladiatorial contests and is still used for concerts and to welcome international artists.
Rovinj in Istria
Rovinj reflects an Italian charm with its inhabitants who are fashion and elegant. The city is known for its narrow streets, restaurants and bars. You can also participate to the “Croatian triathlon”: swim, eat and drink.
Istrian peninsula
When people call Istria “new Tuscany”, they do not think about the cities of Rovinj or Pula but they are referring to the heart-shaped peninsula.
Hum, the smallest town in the world
Istria is a world apart which is far from the abundance of people on the coasts and beaches. Take any highway exit and you will find beautiful and unique villages.
The region is famous for its cuisine with the olive oil, cheeses, cured meats and delicious meals…
Sitting in a shady place and enjoying a wonderful meal, you will love the moment and remember that Tuscany was like this before being flooded by tourists, the place of Hollywood movies and becoming a famous and expensive destination. In fact, we can describe Istria as the old Tuscany and not the new one.