From ancient Roman ruins to medieval hilltop towns, Istria is a treasure trove of historical wonders waiting to be discovered!
Whether you're a curious traveler, an art enthusiast, or simply a history lover, these cultural attractions will surely leave a mark and get you inspired and amazed.
Let's dive into our list of 10 must-see monuments & sights in Istria! In no particular ranking order of course :)
A Byzantine Jewel in Poreč
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč is renowned for its exquisite symbolism and Byzantine architecture. Dating back to the 6th century, this basilica is one of the most important sights of early Christian art in the region.
The basilica complex includes a church, a sacristy, a baptistery, and a bell tower, all adorned with beautiful mosaics! While visiting make sure to climb the bell tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Poreč & its surroundings.
Tours are available everyday except during religious services.
The smallest town in the world
Often dubbed the smallest town in the world, Hum is a delightful stop on your Istrian adventure. With its medieval walls, charming stone houses, and a population of just around 20, it's a picturesque escape from daily modern life.
While visiting Hum, don’t miss the Glagolitic Alley, a path with historic stone monuments leading to the town!
Glagolitic Alley
A unique collection of stone monuments dedicated to the Glagolitic script, the oldest known Slavic alphabet!
The alley stretches for 7 kilometers between the villages of Roč and Hum and features 11 monuments, each representing a letter of the Glagolitic alphabet. These monuments commemorate the cultural and historical significance of the script, which was used in Istria until the 19th century.
Walking along this path you will also enjoy the scenic Istrian landscapes and views.
Healing Church of St. Foška
In the Istrian countryside, near the city of Vodnjan, you will find a small Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century, the Church of St. Foška!
Dedicated to St. Foška, a Christian martyr, this church is known for its unique architecture and serene surroundings. Visiting this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat and a deeper connection to Istria’s religious history. There's even many local stories stating the church has powerful healing powers because of it's placement and building location!
Ancient Hilltop City & Castles
The hilltop town of Motovun is surrounded by medieval walls and gates that offer breathtaking views of the Mirna river valley. Founded in the 9th century, Motovun has retained much of its medieval charm, with narrow, cobblestone streets and ancient houses that reflect its rich history.
You can explore the ancient city gates and the central square, which is home to the Romanesque-Gothic Church of St. Stephen and the Municipal Palace.
The town is also famous for its truffles and vineyards, making it a must-visit for food and wine lovers.
Morosini-Grimani Castle
Step into the past at the Morosini-Grimani Castle in Savičenta, a well-preserved Renaissance fortress surrounded by beautiful countryside. Originally built in the 13th century and later renovated, the castle features a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural elements.
Explore the castle's interior, including its grand halls, dungeons, and watchtowers while learning about its rich history through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
The castle also hosts various cultural events and medieval activities throughout the year so don't forget to check their official web page for some additional fun!
Dvigrad Fortress
The ruins of Dvigrad Fortress are a beautiful testament to Istria’s medieval past! Located in the Draga Valley, this abandoned town once thrived but was deserted in the 17th century due to plague and wars. Today, it stands as a silent witness to history, with crumbling walls and towers offering a glimpse into the life of a bygone era.
Exploring Dvigrad, you'll find remains of houses, churches, and fortifications. The main attraction is the Church of St. Sophia, whose ruins still dominate the site!
The Castle of Pazin
Above the Pazinčica River, stands the Castle of Pazin, one of Istria’s most impressive fortresses! This medieval castle, dating back to the 10th century, has inspired countless legends and literary works, including those of Jules Verne.
The castle houses the Ethnographic Museum of Istria and the Pazin City Museum, which offer fascinating insights into the region’s history and culture. The most captivating part of the castle is the Pazin Cave, located directly beneath it.
You can explore the cave and even enjoy zip-lining across for an adrenaline adventure!
Ancient Istrian Rome
A historical monument in Istria which should be on your list is definitely one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, Pula Arena!
Built in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, the arena once hosted gladiatorial contests for up to 20,000 spectators. Today, it serves as a venue for concerts, film festivals, and other cultural events.
Walking through this magnificent structure, you can't help but feel the echoes of ancient Rome all around you!
Rovinj & More!
Rovinj’s Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets, vibrant houses, and hidden monuments. Perched on a peninsula and surrounded by the turquoise Adriatic Sea, this town offers a perfect blend of history and coastal beauty.
The crown jewel of Rovinj is the stunning Church of St. Euphemia, whose bell tower provides panoramic views of the area. This church is a true masterpiece of Baroque architecture! Inside, you’ll find exquisite artworks and the sarcophagus of St. Euphemia herself, a young martyr whose statue tops the bell tower.
Walking around this beautiful coastal gem, you’ll find many sights & cultural attractions that will leave you speechless!
Additional attractions to explore
Beyond these 10 must-see monuments in Istria, there are many other attractions that are worth visiting!
If staying for more days, here are some additional attractions to explore:
- National Park Brijuni
- Hillfort Monkodonja near Rovinj
- The Verudela Fortress at Pula
- House of Frescoes at Draguć
- Castle of Pietrapelosa near Buzet
- Park of Kažuni - historical Istrian stone houses
- Fishing village Savudrija & its lighthouse
Besides these attraction, make sure to visit other hilltop towns in Istria like Grožnjan, Bale, Vodnjan. Vrsar, Poreč & Labin!
Enjoy!
Istria is a region that will captivate your heart with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring the smallest town in the world, wandering through ancient ruins, or enjoying the coastal charm of Rovinj, get ready for unforgettable experiences at every turn.
If you want to explore hidden gems of Istria with a dose of adrenaline, make sure to check our buggy tours that offer a glimpse into the culture, small villages, untouched nature & hidden sights!
