Motovun

Motovun, also known as Montona or Montona d'Istria, is a beautiful village in Central Istria of Croatia. This beautiful city is well-known from ancient times for both the Illyrians and Celts building their fortresses where today Motovun stands. The name of the village is also attributed to be of Celtic origin, derived from the word Montona, which means a town in the hills or a hilltop town. It surprises many tourists to learn that a majority of the residents in Motovun speak Italian as their native language.

This charming little walled town, with its fort location, is located on a 277 meters high hill in the Mirna River valley. The stunning setting of this gorgeous town is the biggest draw for tourists. In fact, as Motovun comes into view, it feels like the town is rising above the valley like a castle out of a fairy tale. Surround the city is the dark and dene Motovun Forest, which is known to have many myths and legends associated with it, especially the take of Istria's famous hidden treasure.

The fort location of this town is primarily due to the Venetians, who decided to fortify the town in the 14th century, building two sets of thick walls to protect the city. Inside these walls, though, lies a picturesque location of many Romanesque and Gothic buildings that house many artist studios, restaurants, and shops selling souvenirs and other knick-knacks for tourists. The architecture of the old town of Motovun is a must-see. On the slopes that lead to the older part of the town, newer houses and shops have sprung up over the years. Motovun's biggest claim to fame is the famous film festival that is held here every summer. Many people also know Motovun to be the hometown of Italian-born American former racing driver Mario Andretti.

When you are in Motovun, you must check out the Sv Stjepan Church in Palladio, named after the architect who designed the church. Not only is the architecture of the church breathtaking, but the surrounding area is known for some of the best restaurants in Motovun. In addition, you can find the rare delicacy of Motovun, boskarin meat here that comes from the unique long-horned Istrian cattle known by the same name. The boskarin ox meat is a rare delicacy, and if you are near the Stjepan Church, you must give it a try.

If you visit Motovun during the summer months, especially in May, you can take part in some fabulous paragliding experience over this scenic village. Many outdoor adventure companies start offering paragliding experiences in May. They offer many types of gliding jaunts over the Motovun countryside. The conventional ones are carried out with an experienced instructor, and you can choose a basic flight level of 15 to 20 minutes or even for two hours. If you want to learn more, there are also courses that last from one day to even an entire week that teach you paragliding. Paragliding over the Motovun countryside is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have while in Croatia.