Motovun is a charming hilltown that looks like it’s straight out of Tuscany, nestled in the scenic northern Istria region. The area is full of picturesque hilltowns perched on rolling hills, but Motovun stands out as one of the most beautiful. Here’s why:
The town’s name, “Montona” or “Town in the Hills,” was first coined by the Celts back in 804 AD. Over the years, despite various translations by Illyrian and Roman settlers, the name stuck. It continued to be used through the Middle Ages, during a century of German rule, and even through 519 years of Venetian control ending in 1797. Today, while the town is known as Motovun in Croatian, many street signs still display its Italian name, reflecting the heritage of 10% of its residents.
Motovun originated from a prehistoric hill-fort and is built atop a cone-shaped hill with a flat top. The earliest city walls were erected in the 13th century, and the second set, a bit lower down, dates to the 15th century. The historic town features 26 protected cultural monuments and is on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status. Everywhere you look, you’ll find Venetian coats of arms decorating the town’s architecture.
Motovun is rich in folklore and legends. It’s said that Jason and the Argonauts once sailed along the Mirna River near the town. Croatian author Vladimir Nazor even wrote about a kind giant named Veli Jože who lived in Motovun. If you visit the town shrouded in fog, you might just believe these old stories.
The town also hosts several events, the most famous being the Motovun Film Festival, which runs for five days at the end of July. This festival showcases films from small and independent productions, celebrating creativity and pushing the boundaries of cinematic expression.
Top 5 Things to Do in Motovun:
1. Stay in the Boutique Hotel Kaštel to catch beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
2. Walk the city walls for stunning views of the countryside.
3. Try some truffles, which are foraged from the local Motovun forest.
4. Hike or bike through the Motovun Parenzana tunnel, part of an old railway turned 130 km bike/hike trail.
5. Sample the local Teran wine, which grows on the slopes of Motovun.
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