After the disintegration of the Roman Empire began the Middle Ages that left a deep seal in Istrian history. After the brief conduct of Goth, Byzantine, Langobard, and Franks, the Aquilean Patriarchate of Istria was divided between the Venetian Republic and the Habsburgs who lead it until the end of the 1st – century war.
The tour offers you a tour of today’s places under the rule of Venetian and Habsburg masters. In our arrangement you can visit:
- Bale and the Gothic – Renaissance palace Bembo
- Savičenta – rebuilt castle of Morosini – Grimani
- the ruins of the abandoned Dvigrad with the largest cathedral in Istria, St. Sophia
- Motovun and Grožnjan – the two most beautiful pearls of medieval architecture in Istria
- Završje – a city that throughout the Middle Ages changed the rulers and after the Habsburgs, came under the rule of the Contarini family. It was under them a full 3 centuries. Today, you take advantage of its walls and ruins, which unfortunately prevail in the place.
- ruins of the castle of Pietropelos – a fortress that was until the 15th century in the hands of German nobles and then under the Venetians. Citadel was in the hands of the Gravis family until 1869 when the life in it ceased. Today it is one of the most preserved ruins of medieval Istria.
- the ruins of the Old Rakalj fortress and the church of St. Agnes are located on the former Illyrian hill above Mount St. Mikule. One of the most beautiful places overlooking the Kvarner Bay. The fortress is mentioned in the ancient and middle ages in order to leave in the 16th century after the war destruction. Residents are establishing a new settlement near today’s Rakalj.
- the ruins of Kožljak castle located on the slopes of Učka, on the historical route connecting Istria with Liburni, overlooking Čepić field. Kožljak is today an imposing ruin, which draws the attention of visitors to its walls.
The excursion is for 5 people or more. You can choose the route because it’s not possible to visit all the destinations in one day. We recommend sportswear and footwear because of the demanding terrain.
It is conceived in two variants:
- full day: 5-6 places with lunch included (scheduled for a visit to the classic Istrian tavern, on the menu of Istrian cuisine)
- Half-day – 3 places in 4 hours