In the very heart of Istria, far from the busy coastal resorts, lies Pazin – a town where history, nature, and the authentic Istrian spirit intertwine in perfect harmony.
Here, in the green interior of the peninsula, you’ll discover a different Istria – peaceful, genuine, and profound; one that tells stories of the land, the stone, and the people who live in balance with nature.

A Step into the Past – The Story of Pazin Castle

Rising above the deep canyon of the Pazinčica River stands Pazin Castle – the largest and best-preserved medieval fortress in Istria, a guardian of history that has watched over central Istria for centuries.
Within its stone walls, you’ll find the Ethnographic Museum of Istria and the Museum of the City of Pazin, where the past comes alive through exhibits of traditional clothing, old tools, and fascinating stories of Istrian life throughout the ages.
The museum is educational and entertaining for visitors of all ages, while the small souvenir shop offers handmade local crafts and authentic products – a true piece of Istrian heritage.
From the castle terrace, the view stretches towards the mysterious abyss that has inspired travelers and writers for centuries – including the famous author Jules Verne, who set part of his novel Mathias Sandorf (1885) right here, in Pazin and its mystical cave.

Pazin Cave – A Natural Wonder That Takes Your Breath Away

Just below the castle walls lies one of Istria’s most impressive natural wonders – Pazin Cave. Here, the Pazinčica River disappears into deep limestone pits, creating a spectacular karst landscape.
You can explore this protected natural area by walking along a 1,100-meter educational trail leading to the Piramida viewpoint. Along the way, you’ll find information boards explaining the geological and natural forces that have shaped this area over the centuries.
For adventure seekers, Pazin also offers a thrilling zip-line ride above the cave – one of the most exciting experiences in Istria, combining breathtaking views of the canyon, the castle, and the untouched nature of central Istria.

Zarečki Krov – The “Grand Canyon” of Pazin

Just a few kilometers from the town lies another natural wonder – Zarečki Krov, a stunning waterfall that cascades about ten meters into a turquoise pool. Above it stretches a massive rock ledge that covers a cave, giving this place its name.
Zarečki Krov is one of Istria’s most popular natural attractions and a favorite picnic spot. In summer, it’s a perfect place for swimming, cliff jumping, and relaxing by the water, while in spring and autumn, visitors are amazed by the powerful waterfall and lush greenery.
The surrounding rocks attract climbers and adventurers, and nearby forest trails are ideal for hiking and cycling. Many call it “the Grand Canyon of Pazin”, a place where you can truly feel the power and peace of Istrian nature.

Active Holiday and Authentic Istria

Pazin and its surroundings are the perfect starting point for an active holiday in Istria.
Hiking, cycling, caving, zip-lining, and exploring local wine and olive oil routes await all who want to experience Istria from a different perspective.
In nearby taverns and agritourisms, enjoy authentic Istrian cuisine – homemade pasta with truffles, prosciutto, cheese, freshly baked bread, and top-quality olive oils and wines.
From Pazin, you can easily reach all parts of the peninsula – the sea and coastal towns such as Poreč, Rovinj, and Labin are just a 30-minute drive away.

Accommodation in Central Istria – Experience Istria with Heart

If you are looking for accommodation in Istria that combines peace, authenticity, and comfort, Briskva Vacation Rentals Agency offers carefully selected villas, apartments, and holiday homes in Pazin and its surroundings.
Whether you are looking for a luxury villa with a private pool, a romantic apartment for two, or family accommodation in nature, Briskva has the perfect choice for your stay in the heart of Istria.

Istria is not just a peninsula – it is living history and culture, written in stone, the sea and its ancient towns that have witnessed thousands of years of change.
From Roman amphitheatres and Venetian bell towers to Austro-Hungarian fortresses – every era has left its mark and shaped the Istrian heritage we know today.
Walk through the old towns of Istria and experience how history and culture come alive at every step.

Roman Roots and Heritage

The Romans turned Istria into a thriving province, leaving behind impressive historical landmarks that still take your breath away.
The best-known symbol of that era is the Amphitheatre in Pula (the Arena) – the sixth largest in the world and one of the best preserved. Once home to gladiator battles, it now hosts concerts, festivals and film screenings under the stars.

In Poreč, the ancient Roman forum became today’s Freedom Square, while the surrounding area still reveals remains of Roman villas and mosaics, testifying to the luxury of ancient seaside residences.
On the Brijuni Islands, visitors can explore the ruins of a Roman villa rustica, and near Pula, Nesactium preserves the remains of the first Histrian town – the cradle of Istria’s civilization.

For lovers of history, discovering Istria’s past begins right here – among the stone remnants of the ancient world.

Venice, Squares and Stone Facades

From the 13th to the late 18th century, Istria lived under the rhythm of the Venetian Republic.
Venice shaped the architecture, art and culture of Istria, leaving traces in every stone façade and town square.

Rovinj is perhaps the most beautiful example of this legacy – an old town of narrow cobbled streets, pastel houses and the bell tower of St. Euphemia, which dominates the skyline like a miniature Venetian campanile.
Motovun, Grožnjan, Novigrad and Labin owe much of their current appearance to the Venetian period.
In Bale (the Bembo Castle) and Svetvinčenat (the Morosini-Grimani Castle), Venetian palaces, loggias and the lions of St. Mark still proudly bear witness to the power and enduring heritage of Istria.

The Austro-Hungarian Era and Modernization

After the fall of Venice at the end of the 18th century, Istria entered the era of the Austro-Hungarian Empire – a time of modernization, naval development, architecture and progress.
Pula became the main naval port of the Empire on the Adriatic, transforming into a symbol of innovation and strength.
This was when the great fortresses Fort Verudela, Fort Bourguignon and Fort Punta Christo were built, along with elegant public buildings such as the Theatre, Hotel Riviera and Naval Command Building, reflecting the styles of Viennese Secession and Classicism.

The Austro-Hungarian influence spread throughout the interior of Istria, where towns like Pazin, Buzet and Motovun saw the construction of bridges, schools, squares and public buildings that still stand today.
During this period, Istria also gained its first railway line – Pula–Pazin–Lupoglav–Trieste – connecting the peninsula and ushering in a new, modern era.

Istria – Living History at Every Step

From Roman mosaics and Venetian palaces to Austro-Hungarian fortifications – Istria is a place where history and culture meet in every stone, square and view of the sea.
Walking through its towns means exploring the history of Istria through monuments that today live a new life: museums and galleries in castles, concerts within medieval walls, and even an aquarium inside the Austro-Hungarian Fort Verudela – a unique fusion of nature and history.

Here, Istria’s heritage becomes an experience – authentic, alive and unforgettable, just like the peninsula itself.

Briskva Vacation Rentals Agency proudly recommends villas, holiday homes and apartments near Istria’s historical towns – the perfect starting point to explore where past and present meet in perfect harmony.