A Journey Through Time: The Enchanting Motovun | EMBRACE CROATIA
Located in the heart of Istria, Croatia, lies the captivating medieval town of Motovun. Perched high on a hill overlooking the lush Mirna River valley, this picturesque town is a true gem, offering visitors a glimpse into a world of rich history, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights.
A Tapestry of History and Architecture
Motovunβs history dates back to ancient times, with its Romanesque-Gothic bell tower from the 13th century and the Parish Church of St. Stephen from the 17th century dominating the townβs historic core.
The central square is home to the Romanesque Municipal Palace, the largest secular building in Istria from that period, surrounded by numerous other historic buildings.
The Venetians fortified the town in the 14th century, constructing two sets of thick walls that still stand today.
Within these walls, visitors can explore an atmospheric cluster of Romanesque and Gothic buildings, housing artist studios, restaurants, and tourist-oriented shops.
A Feast for the Senses
Motovun is not only a visual delight but also a culinary paradise.
The town is renowned for its truffles, which can be found in the nearby.
Motovun Forest
The scent of these prized delicacies lingers in the air as visitors wander the steep, cobbled streets.
Istria is also known for its wine production, with the native white grape variety Malvasia and the red grape Teran being the stars of the region.
Wine enthusiasts can explore the surrounding vineyards and olive groves, sampling the local wines and experiencing the authentic Croatian way of life.
A Celebration of Culture
Motovun is not only a historical and culinary destination but also a hub for cultural events. The town hosts the World of Malvasia event, celebrating its most popular wine.
Additionally, the Motovun Film Festival takes place annually, drawing film enthusiasts from around the world to this idyllic setting.
Discovering the Magic of Motovun
Whether you're seeking a slower, more authentic Croatian experience or simply looking to escape the bustling tourist hotspots, Motovun offers a unique and enchanting journey through time.
With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights, this medieval town is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the true essence of Istria, Croatia.
In Motovun, traditional dishes often feature the region's prized truffles.
Some popular dishes to try include handmade pasta in truffle sauce, sirloin steak with truffle sauce, and cheese and dried meats with truffles.
Other local specialties include turkey stuffed with truffles, pasta with wild mushrooms, seasonal asparagus soup, and snails with polenta.
When dining in Motovun, you can also enjoy the local Teran wine, which pairs well with the townβs truffle-infused dishes.
The Motovun Film Festival is an annual event established in 1999, held in the picturesque town of Motovun, Croatia.
Taking place over five or six days in late July or early August, the festival is dedicated to films made by small cinematographies and independent productions.
It has become one of the most popular and prominent film events in Croatia and is well-known in Southeast Europe.
The festival aims to reflect diversity and promote social values ββwhile tackling contemporary issues.
Over the course of the event, more than 60 titles are screened across five locations.
In addition to the rich film program, visitors can attend exhibitions, concerts, discussions, and receptions.
A unique feature of the Motovun Film Festival is its informal atmosphere, making it a "small" festival intended for film lovers.
During the festival, a camp for visitors is organized at the foothills of Motovun, where anyone can set up a tent, contributing to the eventβs reputation as a "Cinema Paradiso" and a "Woodstock of film festivals"β¦.
