Istria

Istria is indeed a feast for the eyes. Its streams flow to the sea through deep valleys and gullies which bring to mind the ancient local myths about giants. Rolling hills overlook the fields and valleys with little towns perched on the peaks, recalling some old paintings. The view is splendid: white-topped mountains, lush wheat fields, plateaux, valleys, vineyards and olive groves on hillsides, and, finally the sea. As you get to know Istria you will notice more and more enchanting details: church facades and portals, tiny village alleyways with their specific architectural touches, the babble of a stream, the blossoming cherries.



General informations

  • Location: The westernmost county of the Republic of Croatia The largest peninsula of the Adriatic
  • Area: 2820 km2
  • Population: 206.344
  • Economic Centre: Pula (58,594 inhabitants)
  • Administrative Centre: Pazin (9,227 inhabitants)
  • Sea: The lowest sea temperature is in March ranging from 9.3°C up to 11.1°C. The highest sea temperature is in August when it reaches 23.3°C and 24.1°C. Salinity amounts approximately to 36-38 pro mille.
  • Rivers: Mirna, Dragonja and Raša
  • Coast: 445 km (well-indented coast is twice as long as the road one) The western coast of Istria is 242.5 km long, with island 327.5 km. The eastern coast of Istria is 202 km long with the pertaining islets 212 km
  • Vegetation: Istria is the largest green oasis of the North Adriatic The coast and the islands are covered with pine woods and easily recognizable green macchia. The main specimens of macchia are holm oak and strawberry trees 35% of Istria is covered with forests.

History

Istria's history was written at the intersection of three great European cultures, the Slav, the Roman and the German culture. Thousand-years-long political aspirations towards Istria's territory, constant tensions and frequent divisions of the territory among different states, as a reflection of the political strength of the dominant European powers, were decisive factors in the development of a specific lifestyle and culture. Communication routes through Istria, even in the distant past, connected the Mediterranean with Central Europe. In the turbulent events of history people frequently opted for migrations, which resulted in drastic changes in the population's make-up, tradition and culture. Despite all the troubles Istria was plagued by over many centuries of its history, it always knew well how to wisely reconcile the conflicting influences of its different cultures, thus demonstrating a maturity, which is today its best ticket for modern Europe.

Tourism

Lying close to Western Europe, Istria is the most tourist-developed region in Croatia, informally referred to as Croatia's Tuscany. The attractions of Istria are many. It is an ideal destination for rest and relaxation, supported by high quality, comfortable accommodation found in the coastal towns. The mostly untouched inland of Istria offers a host of opportunities to come in contact with the Croatian heritage. The region, bordering with Italy and Slovenia, has a rich and varied cultural life marked by the cultures that once flourished on this territory. Features of an inland lifestyle are intermingled with those of the coastal life into a unique mixture evident in the appearance of Istria's towns, its customs and rich and varied gastronomy.

The pleasant climate is mostly Mediterranean in character, with mild winters and warm summers. The sea is warm enough for bathing from May through late September. Quality accommodation in numerous camps dotted along the entire coast may be found by the admirers of a free-style life in nature. The cultural life and entertainment have something for everyone, and the many sports and recreation facilities are bound to satisfy even the most demanding of guests. Well connected by safe roads, the sea and air with Croatia's inland and with Europe, Istria is an easy destination to reach.