Motovun

Motovun is the most famous and best preserved Istria's medieval town. Since the town was built upon the old Celtic and Illyric prehistoric settlements, Motovun's name is in fact of Celtic origin and means "Mount Town". The name is perfectly justified, since this oval shaped hilltop town lies 277 meters above sea level.

Two sets of fortified walls divide Motovun into three sections, and the perfect way to explore them is to take a walk up the narrow cobbled streets.

Higher levels of the town uncover the magnificent view of the surrounding countryside, with vineyards on the slopes of the hill, river Mirna in the valley, and the nearby Motovun forest which is famous for its prized truffles.

The town holds elements of Renaissance, Gothic and Romanesque styles, and the higher you climb, the older the monuments are. Passing by the 16th and 17th-century Venetian houses will lead you to 15th-century main city gate, with antique weaponry museum and an art museum. Moving further, you will encounter the 13th-century gate beyond which lies the original core of Motovun. The main square reveals a Renaissance citadel, the church of St. Stephen, a 13th-century bell tower and the 14th-century well.

A legend says that Motovun was built by giants, one of whom was Big Jože (Veli Jože). In the book "Veli Jože", written by Vladimir Nazor, the good giant became a symbol of the Istrian people. In 2008, a memorial to Nazor was uncovered in Motovun to mark the 100th anniversary of the book.

Motovun is a small town and its population counts approximately 500 people. This, however, changes in the mid-summer, when Motovun Film Festival gathers a lot of movie enthusiasts. This five day long festival can be described as a cross between Glastonbury and Sundance festival, and is focused on small independent movies. Festival is especially popular among youth, who enjoy camping in the valley.

A historical center as much as the cultural one, the town also hosts international symposiums on medieval art.

Soaked in history, loved by artists and admired by many visitors, Motovun is easily a true gem of inland Istria! Book Villa Marjeta as your perfect accommodation in Motovun.