The Istrian peninsula, located in the northwestern part of Croatia, is one of the most unique and culturally rich regions of this beautiful country. It is known for its rich history that left a plethora of historic sights, untouched nature, delicious Istrian cuisine with Mediterranean and Italian influences, wine growing, olive oil making, etc. Over the years Istria has become a true tourist destination, offering both beach resorts and rustic countryside villas.
Istria has always been a fountain of variety, a unique location with abundant green fields meeting the fruitful inland and a long, picturesque coastline with may islands and coves. Due to its natural position, this area is exceptionally accessible from all European directions and the mild Mediterranean climate invites visitors all year round. Istria is a tourist paradise today, with its offer based on natural beauties and an abundant accommodation choice, along the coast as well as the inland; and interesting contents, suitable for all ages.
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One of the most well-known cultural sights is the Roman Colosseum in Pula (45 km from Rabac). It was built in 1st century B.C. and is among the six largest Roman Colosseums in the world. Capable of seating 25,000 spectators, the Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles such as mock sea battles, animal hunts and dramas based on Classical mythology. Today, the Colosseum hosts open-air plays, concerts and musicals.
The outdoor types should not miss a visit to the mountain of Ucka, which connects Istria with the continental part of Croatia. There are 8 mountain biking trails and 50 hiking trails leading up to the peak of the mountain (1,401 m), which lends stunning views of the Kvarner Bay and Istria.
The 'foodies' will certainly appreciate Istria's greatest jewel - the truffle. Istria is one of the few regions in the world that has been blessed with this highly prized underground mushroom that has been named “the diamond of the kitchen” by the 18th-century French gastronome Brillat-Savarin. In fact, one of the largest truffles ever found was found precisely in Istria and it weighed 1.31 kg. Restaurants throughout Istria offer delicious truffle dishes, but a town that is most known for its truffle culture (and a world-wide known summer film festival) is a beautiful medieval town on top of a hill called Motovun (45 km from Rabac).
