CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
The Istrian peninsula has a long and rich history. Ancient tribes and powerful empires have ruled this beautiful region, leaving their legacy as a gift to those of us that love to learn and explore!
A wealth of experiences lie on your doorstep, ranging from pre-historic sites, to Roman & Byzantine treasures to Venetian and Austro-Hungarian heritage. For art lovers, the Istrian frescoes that adorn the walls of many medieval churches dotted around the peninsula, are most definitely worth exploring. If you are interested to take a cultural journey back in time you are in for a treat ...
Explore for yourselves & learn about the diverse and fascinating history that surrounds you - from the prehistoric legacy to the Venetian and Austro-Hungarian heritage, and much in between ... it is guaranteed to enrich your experience in Istria.
If you are culture vultures and history lovers as we are, then you will have plenty to absorb you. The rich history of the region is one of the key elements that first drew us to explore, and then fall in love with Istria ... If for no other reason, trust me, the glass of wine at the end of the day will be all the more enjoyable as a result ...
Iron and Bronze Age Experience
Imagine, if you can, exploring centuries old Bronze Age ruins in complete solitude ...
This was our fascinating experience at Monkodonja, located on a plateau close to Rovinj, overlooking the Adriatic. It makes a perfect day trip from the Villa, combined with a fabulous local lunch of oysters or seafood!
If you have a passion for ancient history, then there are a number of under-developed yet extraordinary sites waiting to be experienced ...
Roman Experience
The Roman's left an impressive legacy in the peninsula; most notably, the incredibly well maintained amphitheatre in Pula, constructed in the 1st century.
For a unique experience, take an imersive historical tour the amphitheatre during the day, and throw your dancing shoes on and attend an open air concert in the arena in the evening (during summer months only).
Discover the gifts from Roman Antiquity in Pula, the Brijuni Islands & elsewhere ...
Byzantine Experience
Do not miss out on the Euphrasian Basilica in Porec. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997, it is one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture in the Mediterranean.
The entire complex is fascinating, but the 6th century mosaics in the triumphal arch are simply spectacular. Mesmerized by the mosaics? Complete your day trip with a visit to Theodora Wine Bar in Motovun to see the astonishing Byzantine style mosaic of Theodora in the company of a fine glass of regional wine.
Istrian Fresco Experience
The Istrian peninsula is scattered with small churches. Those built during medieval times were not considered complete if a painter had not adorned the walls with frescoes - not only an authentic art form but one which was used as a key communication vehicle for the largely illiterate local population.
The Dance of Death at St Mary on Skriljinah in Beram is fabulous, but be prepared for an adventure to locate the key! Discover more about our experience of the famous Danse Macabre by reading our blog post.
Venetian Experience
Heritage from the Venetian era is visible across the region as a reminder of the influence the powerful empire had on this small peninsula from the 9th to late 18th century. From bell towers, to loggias to the familiar coat of arms ... A greatv place to start is the stunning hilltop town of Motovun ...
If you are a lover of Venice, as I have been since childhood visits there with my father, then I'd encourage you to explore and soak up the sense of history and romance that the architecture and heritage exudes ...