Pazin travel guide
An industrial town and regional centre but with a well preserved 10th century medieval fortress
An important town located in the centre of Istria. The castle in Pazin is the best preserved medieval fortress in Istria. It was first mentioned in written documents in 983. Located in the castle are the
Ethnograhic Museum of Istria and the Museum of Pazin. Under the walls of the castle lies the entrance to the Pazin cave through which flows an underground river that inspired Jules Verne to give
Pazin Castle and cave a central role in his novel Mathias Sandorf (1885). There is a 1.3km walking path through the canyon which includes sightseeing within the cave. If you like some excitement with the zip wire criss crossing the dramatic canyon below the castle is reason enough to visit Pazin and a major attraction to the town.
Other places of interest in the area :
Beram
A small fortified town on a circular hill. The chapel of Sv. Marija na Skriljinah about 1 kilometre from Beram contains amazingly well preserved frescoes painted in 1474. The chapel is kept locked and you will need to ask locally to obtain access.
Gracisce
A hilltop town offering superb views across central Istria towards mount Ucka. The town is host to the annual Exhibition of the Wine of Central Istria. Within the town you will find a choice of restaurants and cafe's for refreshment. Gracisce is the starting point for an 11.5 kilometre circular walk taking in the Sopot waterfall.
Draguc
A medieval hilltop town built along a ridge with the hillside falling away steeply on both sides and offering spectacular views across Istria. One of the best Istria hilltop towns and with its dramatic setting and unspoilt medieval character Draguc has been a setting for several films. There are local restaurants and cafes for refreshment
