Nearby
The area around Buje is the most important wine growing area in Istria. The town itself is surrounded by walls and the church of St Servelus, dating from 1272, was rebuilt in a Baroque style and considered the most important in Istria. There is an interesting ethnographic museum but the numerous wine cellars and local highly prized truffles, proscuttio, cheese and olive oil are enough to attract visitors.
The Kozlovic family vineyard nearby offers a dozen different tasting programmes and tours of the winery.
Groznjan, town of artists
After the first World War Italy occupied Istria until a resistance movement (headed by Tito) challenged the fascism of Benito Mussolini and forced their withdrawal. Many Italians emigrated back to Italy and consequently there were a lot of abandoned houses. Groznjan was practically deserted. Within ten years however, groups of artists and musicians moved into the run-down properties and the town soon became inhabited again. By 1965 Groznjan was reborn as the town of artists and music.
Now home to twenty or so galleries and art studios, you are sure to come across some unique pieces from young artists. There is also an annual painting festival hosting over 300 artists from throughout Europe.
International Jazz Festival
During the summer months, Grožnjan, a normally sleepy town, becomes a hub for musicians as well as artists. The labyrinth of Medieval streets becomes one great stage, from which the sounds of jazz, classical music, guitar, piano, violin and cello reverberate around the town for all to enjoy.
The highlight of this music extravaganza takes place in July when the annual Jazz festival is held, lasting between two to three weeks. The festival won the award for Best Small Jazz Festival in 2008.
