History and culture
The Venetian Istria, which mainly embraced the coastal regions, was ruled by Venice for four hundred years. The pronounced Venetian flair of the coastal cities of Istria originates from this era. When the Republic of Venice was dissolved, Istria constituted a part of the Austrian Empire from 1815 onwards. In 1975 Istria finally became a part of Croatia. The typical folk dances and the national costumes are an important part of its culture.
The land and its people
The population of Istria is made up mainly of Croatians and Slovenians. A large Italian minority group can be found along the west coast. Tourism has a long history in this region. Hospitality and professionalism goes without saying. The coastline is strongly structured, some estuaries go a long way inland and have a fjord-like character. Apart from its beautiful naturallandscapes, Istria also offers its holidaymakers diverse sport and leisure activities and is ideal for families.
Food and drink
Istria’s cuisine presents a blend of the cuisines of the inland and coastal regions. The region has an abundance of excellent fish and sea food. Besides excellent prosciutto, cheese and olives, there is the local fish soup, fish hot-pots and stews, steamed prawns and sea food risotto as well as other typical dishes of the central region of the peninsular.
