Cerovlje, Draguć, Borut, Gologorica,

Paz, Pazinski Novaki, Grimalda, Pagubice

The historical towns of this area are hidden in a series of interesting names - small in size and number of inhabitants, but exceptional in their natural features and large in the roles imposed on them by past rulers. Tireless guards on the former borders between the Venetian and Austrian states, have witnessed a number of battles and conflicts, whilst at the same time being guardians of the rich heritage of peoples and cultures interwoven through the centuries.

It is an area of green hills and fertile valleys, rich in forests and fragrant meadows. From the hills, beautiful views of preserved landscapes and untouched nature, vineyards, olive groves and orchards are offered, and incredible stories are revealed from this historic chest. And as the winding roads lead you to churches, castles or places offering authentic dishes and products, you will discover why this area is a true representative of the original Istrian hillside.

Cerovlje

The central place of this interesting municipality has grown on an important traffic route that once connected Istria with the former Liburnia. A settlement existed here as early as the 13th century, but gained special significance in 1876 with the construction of the railway from Divača to Pula, when it received a pumping station for steam locomotives that were filled with water and coal. Holy Trinity Church dates from the 15^th century, while the parish church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was built in the 19^thcentury. The traditional cheerful carnival takes place in Cerovlje at the beginning of the year, when colourful processions of masquerade groups from central Istria come together here.

Castles and fortresses

The centre of the former Pazin principality was once reached from the direction of the Učka Mountain via the village of Boljunsko Polje, on the edge of which a castle was built in a strategic position on the hill above the town of Paz. From here a breath-taking view of Boljunsko Polje and the majestic Učka Mountain is revealed.

Today, a small part of this, once powerful fortress, has been preserved. It is also worth taking a walk to the cemetery church of St. Vitus hiding the frescoes of master Alberto de Constancia from 1461.

Not far from Paz in 1529, the former rulers of this area, members of the Barbo family to which some eerie legends are associated, built Possert Castle, today an attractive picnic area and a magnificent lookout point.

Belaj, a beautiful country castle, with baroque architectural heritage, contains a wine cellar and barn, which also hosts St. Henry’s chapel on the ground floor. In today’s castle restaurant and wine shop, you can enjoy the offer of indigenous dishes and wines from the surrounding vineyards.

Southwest of Belaj are the remains of another "stone guard" of the area, a tower/castle around which a dozen villages and hamlets with the common name, Gradinje are scattered.

Pazinski Novaki

If you drive along the Pazin – Cerovlje road, you will pass this place and see a 15^th century church dedicated to St. Rochus, protector against the plague, whilst on the other side is the parish church of St. Michael the Archangel with its bell tower. The waters not far from Pazinski Novaki claim the richest fish in central Istria. However, fishing does not have to be the only reason to visit, Cerovlje ponds are a fantastic backdrop for a walk or a picnic in a beautiful green setting.

Find more about Cerovlje on the official pages of the Municipality of Cerovlje

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