Istria
Istria (Croatian: Istra) is the north-westernmost county of Croatia. In a triangular shape, it is bounded in the north by Slovenia, east by the Kvarner region of Croatia and on the south and west by the Adriatic Sea.Since 1797, the Croatian people of Istria worked really hard for sovereignty and were ruthlessly repressed both by Austrians and Fascist Italy (after World War I), finally ending with retribution from Yugoslav partisans after the World War II. A small ethnic Italian population still lives in the coastal towns. comparatively spared from the Yugoslav Wars, Istria is now a prosperous region. Latter years have seen a rising regional attitude and a reconciliation with its previously conflictive Italian identity.
Croatian is the formal and most common language. There is still an Italian cultural community in many coastal towns. German is also very generally spoken. Most restaurants in the main town also have an English speaker or two on staff.
Tourist attractions in Istria
Roman structures in Pula, including the Arena and Forum. Brijuni (Brioni) Islands - personal park of Tito as well as an international zoo, dinosaur footsteps and Roman and Byzantine ruins. Hill-top villages of Groznjan and Motovun, populated by artist brilliant frescoes of Our Lady of the Rocks chapel in Beram.Visit Lovran, Istria, near Opatija, for the Days of Cherries Festival in June. Join the Truffle Days fiesta in the Motovun/Buzet area in late September. Attend a music or folklore show in the inimitable atmosphere of the Pula Arena. Motovun Film event Motovun, Istria (On the main road between Buzet and Buje).
Istrian Cuisine
Pasta, gnocchi, risotto and polenta, as well as its vegetables (which can be found, at a cheap price, in any of the numerous open-air markets at hand in almost every Istrian town), accompany main dishes, as an Italian heritage. Especially, Istrian peppers have international recognition. With diversity at the heart of Istria, you’ll delight in new culinary experiences and reconnect with customary flavors.At the shore fresh fish and seafood are a tradition. In the inland, air-cured pork (Prsut) and sausages are the highlights. But the culinary pearl is no doubt the truffles. After the opening of the season, in late September, truffles can be found accompanying any dish and sauce. Especially recommended is pasta with truffles. Also, olive oil with truffles is a typical product of the region.
Other destinations in Istria: Beram Cape Kamenjak,
As you get to know Istria you will see more and more charming details: church facades and portals, tiny village alleyways, the budding cherries.
