Istria - Croatia / The rights holiday destinations

The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mary

2012-06-26T13:13:00.001+01:00

Located in the old section of town in Pula is the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mary, which is in its shortened form also called the Church of the Sacred Hearts, or, the Holy Heart, after the nuns who had founded it.

The church, together with the appurtenant convent, was erected in 1908. It features distinctive elements of late Baroque classicism, and it was built based on a project began by Virgilio Volpi, and concluded by Domenico Malusa. It is 34.6 m long, 14.7 m wide and 15.3 m tall. According to plan, a 26 m high belfry should have been built as well, originally in the rear of the church, and subsequently, in accordance with the revised plan in front of it, which was never carried out.

The nuns left the church and convent at the end of World War II and the structure had since then never been in use. The Church of the Sacred Hearts was used by the Archaeological Museum of Istria as a depot from 1958. The roof of the church caved in as it was not possible to perform any restoration works on it, all of which was further aggravated when the fill under the apse began to sag, resulting in the separation and cracking of the apse due to poor construction techniques employed for its construction.

The Archeological Museum of Istria started an initiative to reconstruct the church in the late eighties of the 20th century, in order to establish the Museum Scientific Center. In the early nineties, the archaeological materials that were kept at the church were transferred to Fort Bourguignon, and a new roof was built. During 2007, works began on a project to renew the church that was according to the original plans supposed to become a medieval lapidarium, which was then abandoned in favor of a new idea, whereby the church would house the Holy Heart Museum Gallery.

The structure is designed as a multimedia venue that can host either museum or gallery type exhibitions, but which at the same time can serve for lectures, conferences, scientific gatherings, performances, concerts, films, festivals and the like. A special effort was made so that persons with disabilities can move freely everywhere around the building, which in turn resulted in the erection of a vertical platform for the disabled in the church, followed by a special toilet for the disabled, and a special ramp leading to the church, enabling thus the disabled to access the church. Galleries were added to the lateral aisles of the church, which are connected by a bridge. The apse was partitioned off by a large wall that can be used to project films and other visual presentations. The premises were likewise equipped with a heating and cooling system, enabling them to be used throughout the year. Also installed were lighting, alarm, surveillance and audio systems. The surrounding area has been arranged in a manner to facilitate the organization of various events.

The scheduled opening of this facility is planned for the middle of July 2011. It is further planned to give this Museum Gallery its readily recognizable brand, creating its visual identity, followed by a gradual conversion of the church into a venue used for the presentation of cultural events to tourists during the summer months, and to the inhabitants of Pula and indeed the entire Istrian Peninsula during the remainder of the year.

Roman Pula

2012-06-13T19:35:00.001+01:00

Set off on the adventure "Roman Pula"

The Archaeological Museum of Istria, Tourism Office Pula and Association of Tourist Guides have launched a new project "Roman Pula", wishing to bring ancient Pula closer to tourists who have chosen the city as their holiday destination, so that "Roman Pula" is a sightseeing tour focusing on Antiquity.

Tourist guides dressed in ancient clothes will tell you the story of Roman Pula. The tour begins in front of the Arena, then continues to the amphitheater's underground area and then on to the Temple of Augustus. In front of the temple, theatrical group FERR performs the ancient play "Pia"; charming and witty actors announce the play as a somber, cruel and bloody drama in three acts.

It is then followed by a walk through the center of Pula, and the tour ends in the courtyard of the Archaeological Museum of Istria where tourist can see how pottery, Roman mosaics and Roman hairstyles were once made, with an especially interesting glimpse into fashion details of Roman clothing. And last but not least, savor and enjoy delicious Roman delicacies!

Set off on the adventure "Roman Pula" and be a wealthy Roman for a day, it's an interesting experience.
Information: Archaeological Museum of Istria tel. ++52 351 318, e-mail: gaby@ami-pula.hr

Istra Inspirit

2012-05-21T20:17:00.000+01:00

Istra Inspirit is a series of events that revive history, Istrian myths and legends at authentic locations.
In only a few days, you can travel through time, through the period of castles, Roman villas, urban centres and museums, participating in Roman feasts, medieval executions, Baroque balls and visit a coal mine.

Moments of Istria’s mystical history, demonstrated by excellent actors in superb scenery, followed by a specially prepared dinner with menus from various historical periods, entertainment, dancing and interesting surprises... Take an opportunity to experience extraordinary magical adventures possible
only in Istria!

Mythical creatures of Istria
The food of the giant Veli Jože, the sorceress’s magic potions and the games of the ancient circus
Enjoy an interactive program for children and adults, including sketches, workshops and playrooms with Istrian mythological creatures and legends. While watching a play of the ancient circus that once provided entertainment at fairs with unusual musicians, jugglers, clowns and fakirs, you can try the magic potions of sorceresses and sorcerers and the food of the giant Veli Jože...
Crispo
The feast Constantine the Great honoured his son with and what made the stepmother wicked
The year is 326, and Crispo has just returned from war and his father, Constantine the Great, declares him his heir. Fausta, Crispo’s stepmother, tries to seduce him but does not succeed and decides to seek her revenge. This play takes you into the world of Roman plots and intrigues, love, hate
and revenge, followed by a feast of dishes made according to ancient Roman recipes...
Spacio
The food of fishermen and farmers and discussions at the tavern
Not so long ago, fishermen would catch fish from their batana (a type of boat), while farmers made wine, after which they would all meet in the Spacio
(tavern) and sing about their lives, the sea, the countryside, tales of unhappy loves and happy endings. They would comment everyday events and sometimes, filled with wine and fish, they would quarrel...
Mare the witch
Why the herbalist Mary was burned at the stake and how the executioners celebrated
In 1632 Mare Radolovich was a local herbalist and healer who was accused of witchcraft by her neighbours, the same people that she had healed and helped. They accused her of making a pact with the devil, declared her a witch and condemned her to death by burning at the stake in the castle’s
courtyard. Did she survive? Discover the truth at this renaissance feast in a magnificent Venetian fortress...

Iustitia
Domenico Furlan’s thievery and how justice was served
In the year 1699, the infamous robber Domenico Furlan destroyed the tabernacle of the Basilica in Poreč and stole its gold and silver ornaments. At his trial, he was found guilty of this unprecedented act and was executed. Join the people’s celebration of justice served that turns into a baroque celebration...
The lighthouse of love
The secret love of Count Metternich and why they didn’t live happily ever after
The year 1818 marked the construction of the lighthouse that will later serve as love nest for Count Metternich and his lover, a young woman from Savudrija. Experience the delight of this forbidden love with the sound of a crackling fire and the fragrances and flavours of love potions. Enjoy the
dishes sprinkled with aphrodisiacs and follow the story of two lovers...
Jules Verne: Escape from the castle
How Count Sandorf escaped from the castle and what Jules Verne knew about it
In Jules Verne’s novel, in 1867 Mathias Sandorf was preparing a conspiracy for the secession of Hungary from the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. But, he was discovered, and after a trial, was thrown in the Castle of Pazin to await
execution. Sandorf and two other conspirators managed to escape from the castle by descending the cliff of the Cave of Pazin into its abyss. Enjoy this adrenaline adventure followed by a party, drinks and music from original
historical time period...

Old Buzet
How they baked bread and what music they danced to in old Buzet
In an extraordinary surrounding you will experience sounds, flavours and fragrances, talk and music, sights and spirit of the 20th century and the past times. You will make your bread in the old-fashioned way, learn old dances accompanied by the sound of accordion, double bass and violin, play the game ‘pljočke’, or simply take a walk and discover the streets and squares, old workshops, tasting rooms, wine shops, souvenir shops...
The Miner’s Republic
Is there a sky under the ground? The lives and food of coal miners
Take a walk through the year 1921, 150 meters below ground, under 20 million tons of stone, where there were no sunlight, sky and perception of time, there was only the darkness... and REVOLUTION!
This difficult and touching story about the human strength and pride will reveal the life of miners in one day, from their job to their meals...

Motovun

2012-04-16T19:41:00.001+01:00

Perched on the hilltop in central Istria above the Mirna Valley stands the town with the best preserved fortification system in Istria. In prehistoric times already, people recognized the advantages of living on its plateau where they built their settlement. We are not certain of its power at the time, but its development can be traced in the document from 804, when a report from the Assembly of Rižana was written. Along with other complaints presented by representatives of Istrian towns at the large gathering at the Rižana River, they spoke about taxes to Byzantium whose amount reflected the economic power of the towns and villages. According to its taxes, Motovun was right after Pula, Poreč and Rovinj. Considering such economic power in the Early Middle Ages, the number of material evidence from that time is incredibly small. Only a few fragments of church stone furnishings were found, while one of them was walled into a Motovun café and is worth finding!
Until the 12th c. the town was ruled by the Patriarch of Aquileia, and after that it was taken over by the Counts of Gorizia. According to its first walls and buildings (communal palace, old loggia, church with belfry), in the 13th c. it presumably functioned as a crafts and trade center with a fortified citadel. The Communal Palace, a Romanesque building from the 12th/ 13th cc., is preserved to such an extent that traces of its walled windows are still clearly visible. Standing at the entrance to the central part of town, its function remained the same until nowadays – it is the Motovun Town Hall.
In 1278 Venice completely took over the rule. In the beginning of the 14th c., the town saw an accelerated development and the lower town Borgo was formed, being fortified by new walls. The quality of living improved too; as early as 1331 the town had its own doctor and pharmacy.
In the 15th c. Motovun became the border fortification between two great forces: the Venetian Republic and the Pazin County.

Owing to this new function, strategic position and location along the navigable way of the Mirna River that enabled lively commercial activity, Motovun reinforced its status of one of the most significant Istrian towns. The fortification system was reconstructed, and followed by intensive construction of churches and residential buildings. The town also spread along the eastern ridge and the Gradisiol suburb was formed. The Church of St. Anthony of Padua was built in the 15th c. Somewhat later, in 1521, the church and belfry of the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Gate was completed. Its high altar was made by the well known workshop of Paolo Campsa, one of the most popular Renaissance woodcarving workshops in Istria. In 1584 the Franciscans started building the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary dei Servi. It was completed, as the titular says, by the Servite Order.

The citadel in the center of town assumed new traits as well. On the site of the earlier one, a new three-aisled Church of St. Stephen was built between 1580 and 1614 in the Late Renaissance style. Between the church and the Communal Palace stood the large square with wells. If we come to the square, we will find ourselves standing above the large town cistern that supplied entire Motovun with drinking water.
Constant reconstruction and reinforcement of the town walls encouraged by the position and new status resulted in a multi-layered fortification system. The central ring with a monumental gate on the west and defense towers on prominent positions has a wide promenade. The second ring that was accessed through a monumental passage by the Communal Palace, where a small lapidarium stands today, encompassed part of Borgo, Barbacan and Gradisiol. A third section of walls was built along the second one in order to embrace the remaining part of Borgo. This pattern of passages through the first and second ring of the walls, formed an oblong square at the far end of which a new town loggia was built in the 17th c.

If we stop for a while on this square-belvedere and look at the surroundings, we will notice an unusually dense forest to the right, along the Mirna River. This is the Motovun Forest. Its wood was extremely prized in Venice, because examples of its gently curved common oak, were also used for building the hulls of Venetian ships.
At the end of the 18th c., when circumstances of living changed after the fall of the Venetian Republic, the Rialto suburb was formed. The importance of Motovun began to decrease.
The town functioned as an important station along the Parenzana route. Its revitalization began recently when the town assumed the role of the major tourist center of Istria with many international events, of which the best known is the Motovun Film Festival.

Don’t miss:

The drive along the Mirna River, all the way to the foot of Buzet and back towards Motovun. This way you will be able to feel how Motovun was perceived by the seamen who for centuries sailed the one-time large Mirna River.

Interesting facts:

Who was Andrea Antico after whom the main Motovun square was named? Antico (1480 – after 1538) was the first printer of music sheets in Rome, composer, editor and publisher, allegedly the best music printer of his time. He was born, of course, in Motovun.(revitas.org)

Oprtalj / Istria

2012-04-15T18:40:00.002+01:00

Oprtalj

It is not easy to find an attractive introduction for Oprtalj, yet another fortified town on the hilltop. No matter how attractive it was at the time of its prosperity, it is presently inexplainably neglected which is why it is usually not included in tourist itineraries of medieval towns. However, its development is not much different from other towns of the same group.

Here again, fragments of prehistoric pottery reveal that the settlement was formed on a hill plateau, on the northern side of the Mirna Valley. Life continued in Antiquity, while in its later phase, at the threshold of the Middle Ages, the population presumably grouped in the fortified refuge on a defensible, elevated position, after which the settlement gradually developed into a castle of the High Middle Ages.

In written sources from 1102 it was first mentioned as Castrum Portulense when it was formally governed by the Patriarch of Aquileia. The preserved buildings from that period consist only of remains of the defensive walls and part of the old Parish Church of St. George, visible in the lower zone of the northern wall.

Oprtalj was besieged by Venice in 1421 when it became part of the defensive system of the Venetian possessions in Istria. The most impressive proof of reinforcement and extension of the walls is certainly the tower of the town gate, but equally important is the square tower below the parish office, later turned into a housing area. The area within the walls saw new changes: the loggia was built not far from the entrance to the town, the grain storehouse was built in the central square, the earlier parish church was replaced by a new three-aisled church with ribbed and stellar vaulting with a deep polygonal sanctuary, whose elements are decorated by signatures of the masons of Carniola.

The peculiarity of their reliefs is not limited to the representations of saints. We are able to notice more secular figures: the knight, the forest man and black man. The church was consecrated in 1526, at the time when other towns had already gained Renaissance buildings. That is why it is unusual that Oprtalj insisted on the elements of the elapsed Gothic style. Less than a decade later, yet another church was in construction - that of St. Roch, decorated with mural paintings by Antun from Kašćerga, who never suspected that in the centuries to follow it would become the mausoleum of wealthy Oprtalj families.

The Communal Palace was built next to the parish church in 1471. That same year Master Klerigin III from Koper wrote the year of completing his mural paintings in St. Mary’s Church outside the town, where works of three other painters can be found.

It is unusual to see a number next to the name of a painter, for nomenclature usually accompanies the nobility. This is because there were as many as three masters akin from Koper who worked in the same area.

The further development of Oprtalj was defined by the construction of town palaces and also the walling of the lower town. Particularly impressive is the erection of the additional defensive system whose importance may be understood if we look at the bastion at the entrance to Oprtalj.
The 18th c. gave a new swing to public buildings. The parish church facade was renovated at the time, the belfry completed, the town gate reconstructed, and the monumental Milossa Palace was built on the section of the defensive walls. On the site of an earlier one, a new town loggia was built in the Baroque style in 1765, and is considered the finest example in Istria.
In the late 19th c. Historicist villas were built such as the Timeus House near the school or the Corazza House in Livade. Further indications of the desire to reside in Oprtalj can be identified only recently in the form of occasional historic buildings of different levels of success.

Visit:

The village Čepić and the nearby large three-aisled Gothic Church of Our Lady of the Snow and the village Zrenj.

Interesting facts:

The large relief of St. Mark’s lion, displayed nowadays in the Baroque loggia in front of the town gate originally stood on the Communal Palace pulled down in the mid-20th c. The unusual anthropomorphic muzzle reveals that the relief, too was made by domestic masters from Carniola. Earlier, in the second half of the 19th c., two chapels in the square were pulled down: St. Mary Minor and St. Mary Magdalene. The latter stood next to the Communal Palace and that of St. Mary Minor behind the parish church. This means that in the small central square of Oprtalj there were once as many as three churches.(revitas.org)

Travel to Rovinj / Istria ..

2012-01-21T20:29:00.000+00:00

Apartments in Istria

2012-01-18T12:47:00.003+00:00

Apartments in Istria are the most suitable accommodation for families who would like private atmosphere on holidays in Istria.
Istrian apartment offer is various. We offer you apartments, in private accomodation, campsites, or apartment-settlements.
We hope you will easily find the most suitable apartment for yourself.

Histrica.com, the direct contact with your choice !

Istrian wine / Wine in Istria, Croatia

2011-07-21T11:09:00.001+01:00

Istrian wine is a poetry of taste and fragrance. It is an inseparable part of the Istrian man, his passion and love, his deepest intimacy and most open pride, a lavish gift from the rocky land and abundant sunshine.

The history of wine and of the local people is an inseparable story which has lasted over 2000 years, since the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius brought vines to the warm Istrian soil.

From the golden Malvasia (IQ) to the ruby Teran, from young light wines coloured by the autumn to the full and elegant flavours of ripe barriques, Istrian wines offer a multi-layered story that has just started to bediscovered.

IQ - The "Istrian Quality" designation referring to the wine Istrian Malvasia is primarily intended for labelling high-quality wines made from Istrian Malvasia grapes, and for promoting further development of the production of this autochthonous wine, increasing the quality of the wine and production technology and promoting and selling the Istrian Malvasia nationally and worldwide. The designation "IQ" enables the consumer to recognize the Istrian Malvasia wines whose quality is superior to the quality required by the law covering wines with protected geographical origin, and higher than those usually required and expected by the customer.

Malvasia
Malvasia is part of the region’s identity, a leading Croatian white wine and its fresh and crispy pride. Malvasia is a family of grapes that includes Malvasia Bianca and Malvasia Nera, but the most widely used is the Malvasia Bianca. Malvasia (also known as Malvazia) is a group of wine grape varieties grown historically in the Mediterranean. The Malvasia is a grape of Greek origin that has existed for about 2,000 years. The Malvasia tends to prefer dry climates with vineyards planted on sloping terrains of well drained soils. It can produce wines that go from very dry to very sweet. The grape produces golden, fragrant, flavourful wines with hints of apricots, muscat, and almonds.

It is one of the more interesting wines to pair with sea food and fish. It is served with white fish, shellfish or risotto or pasta and white meat. Serve at a temperature of 8-10 °C. 

Chardonnay
Chardonnay, the most popular sort of all wines, is crisp, elegant, fruity and acidic. Chardonnay grapes are a cross between the Pinot family and a very old and nearly extinct grape variety called Gouais Blanc....

Momjan’s Muskat
Momjan’s Muskat, a truly unique sort, grown on Momjan territory, is a beautifully aromatic and perfumed, semi-sweet, late-harvest wine with the golden yellow colour of the Istrian sun. The delicate and pleasant aromas offer a full and rounded taste....

Pinot Blanc
Pinot Blanc is a white wine grape, is a full-bodied dry white wine, with fruity aromas, often of apple, peach, citrus fruit, and some floral characteristics. This wine has a clear, straw yellow colour, with light golden and green reflections.....

Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris is a wine whose colour is a light shade of pink. It is also known by the name Pinot Grigio. Today it is the most popular sort in Croatia. It is a northern sort, but when grown in the Poreč region it has more colour and alcohol in it.....

Sauvignon
Sauvignon is a white wine, mostly dry and refreshing with notable acidity. It is recognizable for its distinct aromas of blooming meadows and the specific flavours of green apple, grape and asparagus. The taste is strong and full. ....

Red sorts

Teran
Teran is an old Istrian autochthonous cultivar which was mentioned for the first time 600 years ago. Until 100 years ago it was the main Istrian sort which was grown on most of the hither vineyards. It is a rich, slightly sour, full-bodied red wine with a high lactic acid content. It is very palatable, and highly prized by connoisseurs of fine wines. ....
Red Muskat
Red Muskat has carried Poreč’s good reputation in wine growing for more than 100 years. It is traditionally produced as dessert wine.....
Merlot
Merlot is a popular wine which has medium body with recognizable imprints of black currents and plums. Merlot is a very soft, velvety and therefore very smooth wine. Its name derives from ....

Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a high quality sort, whether the produced wine is white or red. As a red wine, it ages perfectly. As a white wine it produces a fine sparkling wine and is distinct in its outstanding bouquet. The wine has temperament and ....

Pinot Noir pairs well with pork, beef and cheese. This sheen wine also pairs with venison, goose, duck, strong meat dishes, mushrooms, tuna....

Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is the most popular sort of grapes in the world. It has a lovely and strongly expressed aroma with hints of black current. The wine is dark, distinctive and characteristic. Cabernet Sauvignon is dry, has a full body and ....

Cabernet Sauvignon is served at 16°C.

Borgonja
Borgonja is one of the oldest known sorts of grapes. This old Istrian autochthonic sort grows best in terra rossa in north-western Istria. It is suitable for producing young Beaujolais wine. Borgonja wine is a mildly strong and strong wine, with....

Refošk
Refošk (also known as Refosco) is an Istrian sort, with rich expression and character, a frit bouquet of raspberry and sour cherry but also with a slight trace of herbs. It has a high mineral content and ....

Recommendations

Wine Routes - Istrian supa - Istrian grappa ....

The grape harvest - At the end of summer, when nature becomes rich in colours, the diligent hands of Istrian people are awarded with abundance. Lush green vineyards, situated on the hills and in the fields, are willing to offer their juicy sweet fruits in the name of the wine symphony rich in colour, flavour and fragrance. Whether you choose the hills and fields of the Umag - Buje vineyards, the fertile vineyards in Poreč, the territory of Pula - Rovinj abundant with sunshine or the evergreen vineyards in the middle of Istria, be ready for a festival of joy, old values and a warm community that permeates every grape picker. Your hosts, in homesteads (Agritourism), in farm houses or in one of the many holiday homes surrounded by beautiful vineyards, will share with you the unique experience of picking grapes and introduce you to a world of old traditions, togetherness and to the source of joy.

More About Istrian wine

A few tips

The maximum allowed blood alcohol level in the Republic of Croatia is 0.5 %, so if you intend to enjoy the pleasures of wine, find accommodation near the desired wine cellar
Other than our quality wines, we recommend you taste the superb Istrian balsamic vinegar and herbal blackberry wine with aphrodisiac properties
Martinje, the traditional wine feast, celebrates the baptism of young wines, the tasting of older wines and a rich cuisine with a variety of cheerful and entertaining programs
Young wines must be opened several hours before consumption to enable them to "breathe"

Umag , ATP Studena Croatia Open

2011-07-18T14:23:00.000+01:00

22. ATP Studena Croatia Open 21.-31.07.2011

We will see the very best of Croatian tennis in Umag this year - all three of our best players will compete at the 22nd ATP Studena Croatia Open. This way, in the last week of July, the Croatian audience at the ATP stadium will be able to cheer for Marin Čilić, Ivan Ljubičić and Ivan Dodig, among other top players.

The ATP Studena Croatia Open is more than just an outstanding ATP World Tour tennis tournament. The event has helped to establish Umag as a symbol of high-quality Croatian tourism. Former Roland Garros champion Carlos Moya has been an outstanding ambassador for the city and the tournament, winning four titles, including three straight between 2001-03.

Thanks to the sponsorship family great support and local institutions, the city of Umag and the Tourist Board, entertainment part of a tournament is reinforced as well. The result of this cooperation is a great program of ATP events that in four weeks complements entire entertainment all over Istria.

Site:
ATP Stadium
Savudrijska cesta bb
52470 Umag
Tel: +385 52 719 125
Fax: +385 52 741 513
Website:www.croatiaopen.hr

ATP Umag Party Nights

21.07. Elvis Stanić
Elvis Stanić is one of the best Croatian contemporary guitar and accordion players, and an award-winning, middle-generation jazz composer. He is the leader of the "Elvis Stanić Grupa", a jazz fusion group...
22.07. Neno Belan
Former frontman of the Split-based band Đavoli, Neno Belan, has achieved considerable success in a rather short period of time in all of former Yugoslavia, leaving behind many an evergreen and hit.
23.07. Montserrat Caballé
During her long and impressive career Montserrat Caballé has sung in over eighty opera roles, from baroque opera to Verdi, Wagner, Puccini and Strauss. Her voice is known for its clarity, precision in control, extraordinary...
24.07. Goran Griff
Goran Griff Kauzlarić, an accomplished guitarist and multi-instrumentalist from Buje. He has played as a professional musician for over 30 years in Croatia and abroad. Besides singing and playing...
25.07. Positivo
All "Positivo" band members are both instrumentalists and singers. They carry a sensibility towards music that radiates energy, emotion and quality performance during their concerts. Their music is under a variety of influences...
26.07. Buđenj
"Buđenje" is a band that has existed at the music scene for many years. Led by the songwriter and singer Darko Bakić, the band's music is classified as Mediterranean pop-rock with a modern music production. "Buđenje"play their hits as well as hits...
27.07. The Beat Fleet
Their music is unique in Croatia and the unique way they create music and performe their raps is what makes them special. Virtually, they are the founders of a new genre of music, a mix between hip-hop and rock, but regardless of their unique...
28.07. Lana Jurčević
Lana Jurčević is one of the most successful artists in Croatia in general. She was singing since she was a child, and has stepped onto the Croatian music scene in 2003 when she released her first album.
29.07. Gustafi
They began with their concerts in 1980 in Vodnjan, and next year they were already touring in Ljubljana, Zagreb, Belgrade, and Sarajevo. The band gained its status as a cult alternative group due to its outstanding performance in the YURM finals...
30.07. Jinx
Jinx are a small but incredibly successful hits factory, capable of unifying all music tastes within one song, in a single perfect pop moment. In 1998 they received an award from the French state radio intended for best young band in Europe.
31.07. Vanna
Vanna's music career began nearly two decades ago. She gained her popularity among the audience through the years with the “Electro Team” as their lead singer and co-author of many hits that helped shape the nineties music.

Istria Gourmet & Jazz Festival program

Thursday, 21.7.2011.

Istria Gourmet Festival Opening
Gourmet theme: Istrian truffle
Restaurant "Zigante", Livade
Thanks to a long-term tradition in making truffle specialties, the members of the Zigante family become culinary experts that treat every dish as a creation. Numerous awards confirm the top level restaurant service provided: Year 2003., 2004. «top 5» restaurants in Istra, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 «Gault Milau» , 2004, 2005, «Dobri hrvatski restorani» top 10 in Croatia, 2009 TV EXCELLENCE"- Excellence Gourmet & Hotels Award- "We certify that this Activity is highly Recommended by the International Media & TV Journalists for its Professionality, Service, Cuisine, Atmosphere" . 2010 . TRAVEL INFO CROATIA. Recognition from the Istrian Tourist Community - CHOSEN RESTAURANTS 2010.

Friday, 22.07.2011.

Wine: Istrian white wine
Restaurant "Kukuriku", Kastav
The ethnic culinary service that makes Kukuriku known even outside the Croatian borders is based on a long-term tradition, along with the avantgard approach and lucidity of the creator Nenad Kukurin. His distinct style and artistic approach to the culture of the table has set many worldwide accepted guidelines in gastronomy.

Saturday, 23.7.2011.

Istrian Cheeses: Istrian goat cheese
The family homestead "Aleš", Štancija Kumparička (Pula) and restaurant "Hiša" Staro Selo (Slovenia)
The family homestead from the 14th century, situated in Štancija Kumperički next to Pula, produces high-quality cheeses. Their products are made in complete harmony with nature, respecting and promoting the true taste and smell in gastronomy.

Sunday, 24.7.2011.

Wines: Continental and Mediterranean
Restaurant "Dubravkin put", Zagreb
Dubravkin put is famous for its premium quality, and its basic gastronomic selection of first-class fish. This restaurant is a true harmony of Mediterranean tastes, smells and excellent ingredients that guarantee the highest quality. Along with the restarurant, there is a Wine bar with an astonishing wine selection.

Monday, 25.7.2011.

JRE Day: Jenues restaurateurs d'Europe
Restaurant "Steira Wirt", Trautmannsdorf (Austria)
Restaurant San Rocco, Brtonigla
Jeunes Restaurateurs d'Europe (JRE) is an association of the best restaurants in Europe. In the JRE restaurants a customer can always count on love and passion towards professionalism, in combination with an exclusive ambient. They are compiled of over 350 restaurants situated all around Europe. One of such JRE restaurants is Steira Wirt'. It is a family restaurant owned by siblings Richard and Sonja Rauch, and it is situated in Trautmannsdorf, Austria. Their motto is 'to be a good host and to please all of their guests'. The restaurant offers the highest quality regional cuisine, along with prestigious drinks gathered from all around Austria.

Tuesday, 26.7.2011.

Wines: Red or white wine?
Agritourism Tončić, Zrenj

Wednesday, 27.7.2011.

Vinegar: All that you did not know about the vinegar
Restaurant "La Subida", Cormons (Italy)
La Subida is a small family hotel owned by Joško and Loredana Sirk. It is situated in the hills amidst famous Collio Goriziano vineyards (Friuli Venezia Giulia). The chef Alessandro Gavagna follows the Sirk family with his talent and passion. This young chef that garners immense respect towards the regional tradition, combines great technical skills with deep sensitivity and creativity. He is a valuable star in "La Subida", and they are proud to have him.

Thursday, 28.7.2011.

Summer Vegetables: Istrian garden specialties on a plate
Tavern "Morgan", Bracanija (Brtonigla)
A sanctuary for gastronomers, an excellent tavern with good, delicious food created from homemade ingredients, the Morgan family farm is a guarantee of Istrian culinary experience. Brisk routine dishes, chosen from culinary customs characteristic for the Istrian region, and the family itself are brought to perfection. The seemingly rustic cuisine has grown into high cuisine almost without anyone noticing. Dried ham, Istrian sausages, stuffed pasta, young cheeses, brisk soups, poultry, venison and finally the boškarin are a gastronomic rhapsody. Their talent is displayed the most in their ability to devise original recipes that look like premium traditional regional dishes made exclusively from the best ingredients.

Friday, 29.7.2011.

Istrian cattle: Boškarin
Agency for the rural development of Istra (AZRI), Pazin
It is the first agency of it its kind in Croatia. The agency headquarters are in Pazin, and it deals with a specific task of coordinating production in the rural areas of Istra, along with initiating economic and developmental programs. Their wish to attend at the 'Istria gourme restoran' shows great potential for the future, as well as a presentation of a wide spectrum of culinary uses for the boškarin.

Saturday, 30.7.2011.

Olive oil: In all the colours of liquid gold
Kozlović wines, Momjan

Sunday, 31.7.2011.

Fish and paste: Hommage to Istria
Restaurant Villa Crespi, Chef Tonino Cannavacciuolo: Campania Felix

Olive oil roads in Istria

2011-07-16T08:26:00.000+01:00

Umag • Novigrad • Buje • Brtonigla • Savudrija

AL TORCIO , ANMAR , BASIACO Franco, BENVEGNU Remiggio , BURŠIĆ FAM. , COSSETTO Marijan , ČINIĆ Nino , KMET FAM. , KRALJEVIĆ-LEONI , CUJ RADESICH FAM., RAVALICO F.lli & Figli , SELVELLA , ZIGANTE Giancarlo,ZUBIN FAM. , Agro Millo , Agrofin , Brajko Anđelo , Cattunar Franco , Clai - Bijele zemlje , Čeko Branko , Farma Jola , Gambaletto , Kabola , Kozlović Franko , Olive Charm , Perossa Ivan , Radešić Romano , San Rocco , Spitz Fam. , Veralda , Visintin Nerino , Benvegnu Oriano , Cecco Antonio , Degrassi Armando , Fernetić Franko , Gardoš Roberto Goran , Miletić Elvino , Paoletić Tulio , Pregara Fam. , Radešić Silvino , Scrignar Maurizio , Sinožić Vedran , Valentić Fam., Vardabasso Bruno , Zubin Aldo

Poreč • Tar – Vabriga • Kaštelir - Labinci

AGROLAGUNA , MIH d.o.o. , Farm Pino , Kocijančić Obrad , Mahne Paolo , Selina , Stojnić Anton , Stojnić Nivio , Žužić Fam. , Brčić Anđelo , Ogresta Stipe , OPG Ban & Torcello

Vrsar • Funtana • Sv. Lovreč

Vošten Mario , Mišetić Zoran , Vina Terre

Rovinj • Bale • Kanfanar

DOBRAVAC Damir , LUPIĆ Vedran , MENEGHETTI , NOVI TORAČ , OLIVETTI , ZANINI Guido , Lanča Željko , Malusa Dario , Matošević Mladen , Pokrajac Klaudio , Popović Mirko , Rudan Giansandro , Valalta , Šturman Anton , Šturman Klaudio , Šuran Rino

Pula • Medulin • Ližnjan • Fažana • Vodnjan • Marčana • Barban

AGROPRODUKT , BALIJA FAM. , BIASIOL Maurizio , BRIST OLIVE , CERLON Giorgio , CHIAVALON , FIORE , MELOTO , OLEA B.B. , OSTOJIĆ-PERIĆ , TOFETTI Lucio , TONIN , Biasiol Livio , Cetina Aldo , Crnobori - Banjolac , Delton Sergio , Giacometti- Moscarda , Macan Gianfranco , Marčeta Dario , Peršić Mario , Sladonja , Sučić Ante , Tanger Silvano , Teraboto , Šimunović Mario , Cossara Livio , Fioranti Odino , Miljavac Livio ,Terra Caviada - Virgulan

Buzet • Gračišće • Grožnjan • Oprtalj • Motovun • Pazin • Višnjan • Vižinada ...

ANTOLOVIĆ Viviano , CERNAZ FAM. , GERŽINIĆ FAM. , IPŠA FAM. , TORKOP , VRANIĆ Franko , Antonac fam. , Božić - Cesar , Casa Maršić , Černeka Adriano , Dešković Fam. , Fatorić Robert , Poletti Peter , Pucer Fam. , Rossi Fam. , Sirotić Damir , Sirotić Sanjin , Vižintin Milan , Šeme Baričević Marija , Bernobich Lucio , Božić Vlado , Jakac Dorjan , Jerman Vlado , Oklen Fam. , Petohleb Miro , Prodan Miljenko

Brijuni National Park

2011-07-15T13:43:00.000+01:00

Brijuni National Park is an oasis of the magnificent harmony between man, animal and plant life. There are almost 700 plant species and about 250 bird species on the islands, whereas the mild Mediterranean climate makes it a pleasant health resort. After leaving Fažana, the line of green islands viewed from the boat, transforms into Veliki Brijun, the largest of the 14 islands.

The traces of dinosaurs, remains of Antiquity and later periods, achievements of modern times are all present in this area, whose development as an exclusive resort starts in 1893 thanks to the “old Austrian”, the industrialist Paul Kupelwieser, owner of the Brijuni Islands. This fashionable seaside resort and one of the leading health resorts started developing and gaining popularity all over Europe and worldwide, but this unfortunately ended with the beginning of World War I.

From then on Brijuni were mostly known for the political activities of Marshal Josip Broz Tito, the president of former Yugoslavia, who arrived on Brijuni for the first time in 1947. The usual, short introduction to Brijuni is a tour by tourist train that takes visitors through all the different natural beauties; through the safari park, by the Byzantine castrum, Roman residential villa in Verige Bay and many other interesting sights. Right by the harbor, close to hotels "Istra", "Neptun" and "Karmen" is the church of St. German from the 15th century which houses an exhibit of Istrian frescoes and copies of Glagolitic monuments.
Nearby is the natural science exhibit, archaeological museum and exhibition "Tito on Brijuni".

Olive oil in Istria

2011-07-14T13:44:00.000+01:00

Olive oil

The liquid gold of the Mediterranean, olive oil, has always been much more than just an ingredient; it is medicinal, magical and an inexhaustible source of enchantment. The olive tree is a symbol of abundance, glory and peace, winners were decorated with its branches, and its oil was served to the most powerful heads. It is a sacred tree and a symbol of peace, fertility, abundance, wisdom and power that has been feeding, nurturing and healing for thousands of years.

About olive trees

The olive was brought to the Mediterranean about 6 000 years ago. This is one of the oldest trees in the world. It is a known fact that the 20 million-year old fossilized remains of an old ancestor of olive trees have been found. The olive is a very resistant tree; its vital, almost immortal power, resists strong winters and scorching summers, proudly stretching out its branches toward the sky.

The benefits of olive oil

According to legend, it was chosen by the Creator to nurture and heal all His creatures. The healing properties of olive oil have been known for long time. The daily intake of this ingredient prevents the occurrence of chronic degenerative diseases and is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, with strengthening immunity, preventing cancer; it has a good effect on the gastric mucosa as well as numerous anti-inflammatory properties. Olive oil is also a well-known cosmetic product, which has very beneficial effects on skin, hair and nails, making them vital, shiny and smooth.

Types of olive oil production

Olive oil is obtained by pressing healthy olive fruit. It is divided into 4 quality categories: extra virgin, virgin, olive oil and sansa oil. The well-known extra virgin olive oil (olio di oliva extravergine) is obtained after the first pressing of healthy olive fruit, and its acidity (free fatty acids) does not exceed 0.8 to 0.2 percent.

The oil still has to pass organoleptic testing and must not have any smell that is not characteristic of the oil. Thus, for example, "extra virgin olive oil enriched with rosemary" is not really extra virgin olive oil.

Olive oil in Istria

Hotels Lovran / Istria Hotels

2011-05-31T10:41:00.000+01:00

Hotel Villa Astra ****

This elegant, spacious luxurious spa hotel is a perfect example of early 20th century Venetian Gothic, the work of master-builder Attilio Maguolo.The first in an array of summer-houses perfectly situated along the Croatian Adriatic sea, with a magnificent view of Kvarner Bay, Villa Astra is set well back from the main Opatija road.

The hotel is surrounded by lush, green gardens and has a direct access to the beautiful Lovran seaside promenade (or lungomare), 5 minutes walk from the centre of Lovran.

This exclusive spa hotel features 6 luxurious guest suites, an intimate organic vitality restaurant for gourmet tastes, elegant reception and adjoining aperitif bar,heated outdoor swimming pool (with bar), plus wellness area and secluded beach in front.

S1 / Hotel room(2 + 1)

S2 / Hotel room(2 + 1)

Astra Wellness & SPA / Wellness & SPA

Restoran Vila Astra / Restaurants


Objavi post

Festival Kvarner in Opatija

2011-05-12T11:57:00.000+01:00

With three concerts we started the international Festival Kvarner in Opatija in 2010. The unique location, magnificent climate and enchanted atmosphere, altogether, inspire us to breath that vibrant present moment of life when we feel most alive, through its yielding nature. We hope to welcome you to the Festival Kvarner again this year. Experience this receptive liaison of music, nature and ambience right by the sea.

More About....www.festivalkvarner.com or Festival Kvarner / Opatija

Festival Kvarner / Program

FR
03.

Friday 03 June 2011 | 20.00 clock
Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

PROGRAMME
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART Sonata for piano No. 13
FRANZ LISZT ballad No. 2 in B-minor
***
ROBERT SCHUMANN Carnival Scenes from Vienna op. 26
ARTIST
Martina Filjak
TICKETS HRK 70 / 90 / 110 (Euro 10 / 12 / 15)

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TU
21.

Tuesday 21 June 2011 | 20.00 clock
Villa Astra | Lovran

PROGRAMME
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN Sonata No. 1 in D major, op. 12
JOHANNES BRAHMS Sonata No. 1 in G major, op. 78
***
CLAUDE DEBUSSY Sonata in G minor
ARTISTS
Vanessa Szigeti, Violin
Guillaume Vincent, Piano
TICKETS HRK 60 (Euro 8)

For this concert are only 50 tickets available.

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SA
25.

Saturday 25 June 2011 | 20.00 clock
Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

PROGRAMME
JOSEPH HAYDN Symphony No. 6 Le Matin
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN Symphonie No. 1 in C major, op. 21
ARTIST
Orchester PurPur
TICKETS HRK 70 / 90 / 110 (Euro 10 / 12 / 15)

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TU
06.

Tuesday 06 September 2011 | 20.00 clock
Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

PROGRAMME
JOSEPH HAYDN Symphony No. 94 in G major, Hob. I:94
***
ANTONIN DVORÁK Symphony Nr. 9 in E minor Aus der neuen Welt, op. 95
ARTISTS
Orchesterakademie Ossiach
Martin Sieghart, conductor
TICKETS HRK 70 / 90 / 110 (Euro 10 / 12 / 15)

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SA
01.

Saturday 01 October 2011 | 20.00 clock
Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

PROGRAMME
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN Coriolan Overture, op. 62
***
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 2 in D major, op. 36
ARTISTS
Capella Istropolitana
Michael Fendre, conductor
TICKETS HRK 70 / 90 / 110 (Euro 10 / 12 / 15)

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SA
29.

Saturday 29 October 2011 | 20.00 clock
Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

PROGRAMME
GIOACHINO ROSSINI Overture to Die Seidene Leiter
JOHANNES BRAHMS Variations on a Theme of Schumann, op. 9
***
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART Piano Quintet KV452
FELIX MENDELSSOHN BARTHOLDY A Midsummer Night's Dream, op. 61
ARTIST
The Ensemble Berlin
TICKETS HRK 70 / 90 / 110 (Euro 10 / 12 / 15)

Arena, Pula / Events 2011

2011-05-11T09:50:00.001+01:00

18/06/11 - Zucchero

pop rock koncert

Arena

21h

02/07/11 - Humanitarni koncert Biskupije

pop koncert

Arena

21.00h

05/07/11 - Seal

soul i r&b koncert

Arena

21h

10/07/11 - "Jalta, Jalta"

mjuzikl

Arena

21.30h

16/07/11 - 58.festival igranog filma

Arena

16.-23.07.2011.

21.30 sati

26/07/11 -Jack Johnson-To the Sea Tour 2011

pop rock koncert

Arena

20.30h

30/07/11 - Tony Cetinski

pop koncert

Arena

21.30h

06/08/11 - Gloria Gaynor i Ivo Gamulin

pop koncert

Arena

21.00h

13/08/11 - Đorđe Balašević

pop koncert

Arena

21.00

27/08/11 - Gibonni

pop koncert

Arena

21.00h

Istrian ham

2011-05-10T13:47:00.002+01:00

Istrian ham is the pride of the Istrian man, his symbol for the benefits of a balanced rhythm with Nature. Istrian ham is related to the legend of Bura, a young and beautiful girl who praised her own beauty too much and who God struck with lightning because of her arrogance. The story says that since then, whenever a woman commits a similar sin, she sighs bitterly, and her sighs become a strong and cold wind, which brings clarity and simple beauty. This is what Istrian ham is like, a unique combination of extremely high quality meat, a special recipe, enriched with sea salt and natural spices, dried only in the wind called Bura. Cut into thin slices it represents the beauty of simplicity and the uniqueness of Istria which melts in the mouth and conquers with a misleading fragrance.

The uniqueness of Istrian ham

This absolutely authentic Istrian product is unique in the world because of the quality of its ingredients and the preparation method that haven’t changed for centuries. The special technology for ham preparing and the microclimatic conditions result in a supreme product. Istrian ham is legally protected and has a geographical origin; it must be produced only in the hinterland of Istria, at least 12 kilometres away from the sea.

It is characterized by extremely red-coloured meat, with no adipose tissue and by an intense flavour and aroma. The animals are fed and kept separately, so the meat of Istrian ham does not contain additives or nitrates, which are harmful to one’s health. Unlike other dry-cured hams, the Istrian one dries without smoke, solely with the help of clean air, which is why it does not contain dangerous carcinogenic substances. Processed hams are dry-cured only with sea salt and natural spices - pepper, rosemary, bay leaves and garlic. It is produced in the wintertime, with the first day of a fresh wind, and it is drought the next five and matured twelve months.

Where to try the Istrian ham

Istrian ham will be offered to you on almost every table, in the warm home of Istrian people, in many restaurants, in traditional taverns and agrotourisms, as a beginning of every good meal, but also as a unique ingredient in many traditional dishes.

CROATIA CRUISE - Gulets (Sailing ships)

2009-05-15T16:57:00.003+01:00

If you want to get away from your daily routine, then take advantage of Croatia’s treasures and embark on an unforgettable CROATIA CRUISE. Why? Because CROATIA CRUISE means more than just spending time on a boat and enjoying the clear sea – it means a stress-free holiday, enjoying and experiencing more than a thousand islands and islets and countless coves. Every cove, beach and stone will make you want to touch it and become part of that place. And that is exactly what can happen – become part of the beautiful small villages on the islands, meet the local inhabitants, their customs, way of life and centuries old traditions.

You can sail even further into the past on GULETS: old-fashioned sailing ships.

CROATIA CRUISE (Sailing ships)

GULETS are beautiful, wooden sailing ships which served as merchant and cargo ships in the past, and have been completely renovated for your pleasure, with their comfort, facilities, appearance and interesting history.

CROATIA CRUISE is a luxurious vacation intended for you and your family or friends. A gulet can accommodate 10 - 12 people in 5 – 6 cabins with their own toilets and showers and a personal crew. As well as accommodation, a crew and a several hours of sailing every day, a gulet cruise allows you to try indigenous Dalmatian dishes, with the choice of full or half board. Although the menus and routes are set in advance, you can discuss your own ideas with the captain, tailoring your dream holiday to your own requirements.

If you want to experience the same atmosphere while meeting new people, you can book a cabin charter on a gulet (6 – 15 cabins). You will enjoy the large cruiser social experience in an intimate way.

Gulets are available departing from several harbours, (Sibenik, Zaton, Trogir, Split and Dubrovnik) so you can experience different parts of the Croatian coastline.

GULET BASES

SIBENIK – a city with a rich history, located on the central Croatian Adriatic coast, on the estuary of the River KRKA, which is also a national park, with a pleasant Mediterranean climate. Our gulet, the Agora, takes you on a pleasant trip with the opportunity of visiting the unique archipelago of the Šibenik area and Kornati National Park - a unique group of Dalmatian limestone islands and rocks.

ZATON – situated deep in a bay where the sea is calm and the village tranquil, Zaton is the location of a small fleet of gullets: Blue Star, Morning Star, Kraljica Jadrana, Ser, Ostro, Siroko and Pulenat. You can enjoy a pleasant Adriatic cruise in each of them, accompanied by a professional crew and top quality chef. Another reason for choosing to cruise out of Zaton is Mother Nature herself - not far from Zaton is the splendid River Krka, with an abundance of flora and fauna, and the fascinating limestone archipelago of Kornati National Park.
If you want to see the central Dalmatian islands (Brac, Hvar, Vis) or even go all the way down to Dubrovnik, our gulets can take this route.
Even closer is TROGIR, from where the central Dalmatian archipelago is within easy reach.

TROGIR – a small town, but a big tourist destination, with a rich, lively history. The historical old city of Trogir was declared a cultural monument in 1997, making it an even bigger tourist attraction. Split airport is close by, which is certainly an advantage.
The beauty of Trogir is enriched by numerous gulets which will take you from Trogir harbour on your Adriatic cruise: Andi, Andi Star, Blue Nose, and Nostalgija are just a few of them. You can also set out gulet cruising from Split.

SPLIT – is the largest city in Dalmatia, and the second largest in Croatia. Situated beneath Marjan Hill, within the walls of a 1700 year-old palace, is a city which many regard as the “most beautiful city in the world”. The beautiful greenery of Marjan and the nearby Jadro and Zrnovnica Rivers, bathed in a warm Mediterranean climate, make Split forever young.
These gullets are based in Split: Fortuna, Fortuna Dalmata, Sinbadsan, Libra, Jadranska Kraljica, Barbara, Angelica, Atlantia and many more. The most common route taken is through the central Dalmatian islands: Solta, Brac, Hvar, Vis, or further, to Lastovo, Korcula, Mljet, or all the way down to Dubrovnik.

Flotilla sailing Croatia

2009-03-03T14:30:00.001+00:00

A flotilla is a group of boats sailing together under the supervision of a lead boat operated by the charter company.
Flotillas are arranged so that singles, couples and small groups who don’t know each other can join together and form a flotilla of 5 to 10 boats. Lead boat crew is always nearby in case someone needs assistance during trip and also to recommend the best anchorages, harbours, restaurants and places to visit. Although there is an experienced skipper on the lead boat, at least one person on each boat is required to have an internationally recognized sailing certificate.
Every morning a briefing takes place in which all skippers together discuss route of that day, flotilla leader gives useful tips about it and weather report. Flotilla leader is more of a nautical companion and source of information than an entertainer. On the way a lead boat can be contacted by VHF, an easy-to-handle sender/receiver radio transmitter.
All boats follow the same route which provides the opportunity for swimming, snorkelling, relaxing and sunbathing. They are sailing independently but can always refer back to the lead boat. Evening can be spend without the group because they are no social obligations, but often the group finds itself together to eat and drink and share experiences of the day.
For many the social element of meeting up with likeminded crews from the other flotilla yachts is both reassuring and fun.

More info Flotilla sailing Croatia

Team building on the sea

2009-03-03T14:29:00.001+00:00

Since ancient times, unity of spirit has characterised the sea and fearless sailors, and team building programme on the sea offers co-existence with colleagues and with nature.

Although it is a special experience sailing the Adriatic alone or with your closest friends, experiencing its beauties with your colleagues and business partners can be a completely new challenge. Prepare your team for their next business challenge by experiencing this unique combination of the sea and nature. Exchange your work space for a beautiful yacht or gulet and the crystal clear Adriatic. Transform your tedious business conversations into more pleasant ones through socialising and the challenges offered by the sea.

Depending on the goals you have set for your team, you have option to spend your team building on the yacht or on the gulet.

Yachting team building is more active and physically demanding, full of real challenges. Arrive knowing little about sailing and leave with a full understanding of how great teamwork makes a yacht move better and faster.

Gulet is luxurious wooden motor sailor boat, designed specifically for cruising. With gulet team building you leave the sailing responsibilities to the crew and dedicate time to yourself, your team and the goals you have set.

Besides Adriatic sailing, team building project might also include some interesting active excursions: rafting, canyoning, canoe safari, trekking, hiking, free climbing, paintball, riding… Also, there is possibility to include in the team building visit to a farmhouse where you can help in the preparation of traditional Croatian dish „soparnik“, learn to play bocce, or just enjoy sitting by a fireplace and drinking wine from a wooden jug.

If your goal is to improve relationships between groups and to improve business efficiency spending time together in the nature – team building on the sea is one of the best options for your team. Contact Orvas Yachting and start you adventure!

Hallowind 2008 - 31.10. - 02.11. Premantura

2008-09-18T12:49:00.000+01:00

Hallowind 2008 - 31.10. - 02.11. Premantura
Kamenjak, AC Stupice
In Premantura, one of the most preferable windsurfing destinations, the Hallowind will blow again this year.

Apart from the central and the most attractive sport event - European Championship Windsurfing Free Style finals, other contests such as mountain bike race, free climbing, skateboarding and windsurfing formula for Adria and Croatia Cup will take place daily.

And to avoid sportsmen taking all the credit for having a good time, the music part will take place every night according to the 'something for everybody' wise formula.

Everything will end in the traditional Hallowind way - with a techno party!
Kamenjak, AC Stupice
In Premantura, one of the most preferable windsurfing destinations, the Hallowind will blow again this year.

Apart from the central and the most attractive sport event - European Championship Windsurfing Free Style finals, other contests such as mountain bike race, free climbing, skateboarding and windsurfing formula for Adria and Croatia Cup will take place daily.

And to avoid sportsmen taking all the credit for having a good time, the music part will take place every night according to the 'something for everybody' wise formula.

Everything will end in the traditional Hallowind way - with a techno party!
Kamenjak, AC Stupice
In Premantura, one of the most preferable windsurfing destinations, the Hallowind will blow again this year.

Apart from the central and the most attractive sport event - European Championship Windsurfing Free Style finals, other contests such as mountain bike race, free climbing, skateboarding and windsurfing formula for Adria and Croatia Cup will take place daily.

And to avoid sportsmen taking all the credit for having a good time, the music part will take place every night according to the 'something for everybody' wise formula.

Everything will end in the traditional Hallowind way - with a techno party!

Kroz Istru - Tour d'Istrie cycling races

2008-09-18T12:47:00.000+01:00

Kroz Istru - Tour d'Istrie cycling races
19.09. - 21.09. Pula
19.09. I. etapa: Pula - Buje (93 km)
Pula - Fažana - Bale - Lim - Poreč - Vižinada - Buje

20.09. II. etapa: Umag - Labin (100 km)
Umag - Oprtalj - Livade - Pazin - Pićan

21.09. III. etapa: Rabac - Pula (103 km)
Rabac - Raša - Žminj - Dvigrad - Lim - Bale - Pula

Not many cycling races in the world can boast of having such a magnificent structure as the amphitheatre of Pula for their starting point. One of these is the International junior stage race Kroz Istru, held for the first time back in 1949, so that this year's race is its 49th edition.

Top cyclists from Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Russia, Poland, Australia, Canada, Nigeria and many other countries compete for points of the World cup (junior category) in several demanding stages. Apart from being a sports event, this race is known for its friendly atmosphere, enabling both participants and visitors to enjoy the untouched natural beauties and hospitality of hosts.

Owing to the natural diversity of the Istrian peninsula there are great possibilities for bike trails. Organizers of the legendary Giro d'Italia recognized such possibilities, so in May 2004 Istria hosted two stages of one of the world's most prestigious sports events.

The race is listed on the calendar of the World Cycling Federation (UCI)

Tied around the Pula Arena

2006-05-11T16:29:00.000+01:00

After two years' preparation, in the afternoon of Saturday 18th October the knot of the largest cravat in the world was tied around the Pula Arena. The creator of this grandiose art installation was prof. Marijan Busic, the head of the non-profit making establishment "Academic Cravatica", which promotes the cravat as part of the Croatian and world cultural heritage. The coordinator of the technical execution of the installation was Mladen Marinovic, the head designer of the firm Potomac-Croata. The designers of the idea and feasibility study were mr. Sc. Damir Corko (for the part of the Cravat around the Arena) and dr. sc. Bruno Calic (for the construction of the knot and the load bearing construction outside the Arena). Academia Cravatica was responsible for the entire art installation project, and the City of Pula was the co-organizer.

This world scale "mega-tie" is of incredible dimensions: it is 808 m long, and at its widest it measures 25 m. The knot of the cravat is 15 m long, at its widest it is 16.5 m wide and at its most narrow point it is 5.4 m wide. The height of the cravat from the narrowest to the widest part is 3.5 m. The execution of the art installation began on Tuesday morning, when members of the Split mountaineering society "Spirit, by climbing up around the Arena, began setting up a net around the Arena, so that they could then fix the cravat to it.

This job took two days, then more than a hundred Pula high-schoolers, standing around the Arena, held the cravat whilst the mountaineers gradually lifted it up to the top of the Arena. The most difficult part - tying the knot of the cravat - began on Saturday morning. In the late afternoon, more precisely at around 5.30 p.m., the knot was tied and the cravat spread out to its full width of hundreds of meters across the Pula Karolina car park. The entire unusual event was followed from the early morning with great interest by hundreds of local people and tourists, and in the afternoon there were several thousand watching. This world scale cultural media spectacle aroused a great deal of attention from the local and world media, including about ten television companies, including CNN and ARD.

The tying of the knot

The tying of the knot of the Tie was recorded several times from the air (by helicopter from the Ministry of Defense) and what was probably the most beautiful sight of the entire event began when, in order to spread out the lower part of the Tie (below the knot), hundreds of local people became involved in a long chain to take part in the installation, holding the Tie up. On the recordings from the air, the Arena truly resembled the giant neck of Veli Joze, as the creator of the installation Marijan Busic has said, and the Cravat around the Arena was impressively similar to a normal cravat with a tied knot.

The sponsors

The sponsors of the art installation were HEP (the Croatian electricity company) INA, Potomac-Croata and Adria Lada. Croatian national television (HRT) will make a documentary about this unique event. The importance of the art installation project "A Cravat around the Arena" as a world scale cultural project by which the Arena, Pula, Istria, Croatia and Croatian tourism have been promoted on a world scale, has been recognized and given support by the Croatian Ministry of Culture, the Ministries for European Integration, Tourism and Defense, the Croatian Tourist Board, the Tourist Boards of the City of Pula and the Istarska County and Croatia Airlines. The official cultural and artistic program with the presentation of the installation was attended by the vice-president of the Croatian Government Dr. Goran Granic, the assistant minister for European Integration Davor Cilic, diplomatic representatives from the embassies of France, Greece and Denmark, a representative of the Japanese cultural institution "The Japanese House" Jassuo Yamamoto, who is also a member of the Board of the Academia Cravatica and many other important guests.

The official program

At the beginning of the official program (run by Lejdi Oreb) the mayor of Pula dr. sc. Luciano Delbianco spoke on the significance of this event for the city of Pula and Croatia as a whole. The coordinator of the technical staging of the installation Mladen Marinovic spoke about how this exceptionally complex project, in a technical and technological sense, was realized. The creator of the installation Marijan Busic spoke about the motives for his preoccupation with the cravat and the message of this art installation and amongst other things said, "While I was still in high school I realized that Croatia, the home of the tie (cravat), could best be presented to Europe and the world by means of the tie, as a worldwide symbol of dignity, formality and success. In time I discovered more and more the symbolic potential of the cravat as a medium. So the art installation "A Cravat around the Arena" primarily draws attention to the cravat as a world phenomenon of communication, a medium which communicates emotion, value and identity. Today in the conditions of globalization, with the tendency to iron out cultural differences, through this installation which brings together the ancient and the modern era with Croatia, I would like to emphasize directly the value of different identities. The red color of the tie, as a sign of love, which is also the color of the Croatian coat-of-arms, and the red soil of Istria, underlines the Croatian cultural identity and at the same time its openness and belonging to the wider European cultural circle. The metaphor of circles is also close to me (of Pula, Istria, Croatia, Europe and the World), circles, which do not obliterate each other, but rather complement and complete one another. The extraordinary size of the art installation is conditioned by the size of the Arena, this magnificent symbol of the Greek and Roman world. Since it is located here in Istria, I spontaneously associated the Arena with the giant Veli Joze and I imagined it as his gigantic neck."

The official program began at 3 p.m. with

a parade by the brass band and majorettes
of the City of Pula.
Also included in the program were
members of the "Uljanik" folk club
and the women's
klapa singing group "Teranke"
who for the first time performed
the song "Vez"
(written by Daniel Nacinovic,
music by Bruno Krajcar) which
was especially written for the occasion.

The composition "Balun" was also performed (by Bruno Krajcar) which popularizes the unique Istrian musical scale and the traditional Istrian dance. The dance was performed by the "Stellium" dance group (choreography by Tatjana Samuele).

Six couples danced in costumes based on stylized Istrian folk costumes made by the firm Potomac, who also are owners of the Croata brand. After the program there was a reception and a happy time of socializing, for the guests, the participants in the program and representatives of the media.

The young couple Danijela and Denis from Pula also took part in the official program, dressed in formal wedding outfits. Their presence was a kind of living presentation of a "wedding in the Pula Arena" the basic motif of the picture book "The Cravat of Veli Jože or the fairy wedding in the Pula Arena". This new, illustrated literary work (written by Daniel Nacinovic and Ivan Gregov) was produced to mark the art installation and was inspired by it. The young couple was also honored by the accompaniment of members of the "Turopolje Honorable Guard" a historical Croatian unit from Turopolje. Turopolje is incidentally, the home of the man's formal neck scarf the "podgutnica", which according to some researchers is the oldest Croatian cravat (the original cravat).

The realization of the art installation also gave rise to other cultural and artistic events. On Friday 17 October an exhibition of works by twenty artists was opened on the theme of the tie. They donated all the works of art exhibited to the non-profit making institution Academia Cravatica. There is a book, as mentioned before, to be launched next week (a picture book) entitled "The Cravat of Veli Joze or the fairy wedding in the Pula Arena" (Authors: D. N. & I. G.), in three versions - in Croatian, Italian and English.

The final phase

And finally one more interesting thing. The final phase of the execution of the installation on Saturday was made more difficult and slowed down by a strong bora wind. Precisely because of the great vulnerability of the installation to wind, the lower part of the cravat was put away that same evening with the help of the local people, but the knot and the part of the Cravat around the Arena was taken down the next day, on Sunday. But the point of the art installation had been achieved: a picture of the largest cravat in the world had gone around the globe! (Dino Bedrina)

New Metro in Croatia

2006-05-09T08:55:00.000+01:00

On May 15, a Croatian edition of Metro will be launched by Europapressholding (EPH), the biggest newspaper publisher in Croatia in which German publisher WAZ (Essen) has a 50% stake. The paper is a Metro franchise and wil have the familiar green Metro design. Metro will be pubished in four different editions (Zagreb, Istria, Dalmatia, and the northern area) with a circulation of 250,000.

Competition has been rising in Croatia the last year. Austrian publisher Styria Media, publisher of Vecernji list, launched the cheap paper 24Sata and the free weekly Metropola, while EPH added the TV-Magazine Studio and the Lifestyle-Magazine Gloria In on Friday and Saturday for free to their daily Jutarnji list. Vecernji list and 24Sata reacted with a TV-guide of their own.

In 2003 the car of the director and co-owner of EPH, Ninoslav Pavic, was blown up by a bomb in Zagreb. The attack was probably related to an earlier attack on two EPH journalist in 2002. The report by EPH publications on organized crime in Croatia could be the reason for the attacks.

''CULTURAL SUMMER OF FAŽANA 2006'' - Manifestation calendar

2006-04-21T11:07:00.000+01:00

''CULTURAL SUMMER OF FAŽANA 2006'' - Manifestation calendar

MAY
30.4. - 16,00h "Brodetto festival" – competition in preparation of ''brodetto'', traditional istrian dish
1.5. - 15,00h ''Fešta za Fažance'' – festivity of the 1st May
6.5. - "Fažana school of salting pilchard" – competition and education about salting, Pilchard
6.5. - 17,00h education about Pilchard and technology of salting Pilchard
6.5. - 18,00h competition in salting Pilchard
11.-19.5. - 18,00h Paint exhibition of the kindergarden ''Sunce''
20. – 27.5. - "Tito’s days in Fažana" – exhibitions dedicated to the time Tito spent in Fažana
20.5. - 17,00h Opening of the manifestation

JUNE
3.6. - County of Pellizzano – gastro presentation
13.-14.6. - Days of the Fažana county
18.6. - 10,00h - "Fažanski tanac" – youth folklore festival for the Istrian elementary schools
25.6. - "Fisherman’s festival" – preparation and degustation of pilchard in 100 ways - Opening of "Park of pilchard"
27.6. - 20,00h Concert of the group „Batana“ from Rovinj
29.6. - 20,00h Folklor group from Svetvičenat

JULY
30.6. – 2.7. - "Festival of sport and culture" – competitions in different sports, traditional sports, wolleyball, mini socker, swimming marathon-creative workshops at the beach of Fažana
16.7. - "Fešta od kužine" – gastronomy festival – competition in preparing istrian vegetable stew ''maneštra''
23.7. - "Roman Valbandon"– presentation of Fažana's activities and gastronomy in Roman times
29.7. - "Rio in Fažana" – summer carnival for kids

AUGUST
5.8. - "Pilchard festival" – the oldest Fažana festival
13.8. - "Open Riva Art" – one – day open air exhibition held in the old town core
20.8. - "Fisherman’s festival" – presentation of the old fisherman's tools and degustation of salted pilchard
27.8. - "Valbandon ispod čripnje" - competition in preparing dishes under a baking lid "čripnja"

SEPTEMBER
17.9. - "Fažanafest" – final festivity of the "Fažana cultural summer 2006"

NOVEMBER
11.11. - "New Wine Festival" at Stancija Barbo

SUMMER IN FAŽANA 2006 - Daily events at the waterfront: folklore, soft summer music, fashion shows, exhibitions, jazz evenings...

July/August - ''Hand made fair'' – original hand made istrian souvenirs

Istria Terra Magica Bike 2006

2006-04-10T07:54:00.001+01:00

Dear sports friends,

it is our great pleasure to announce the 2nd international bicycle race Istria Terra Magica Bike that is going to take place on April the 30th in Poreč. Classified as a marathon, the race is listed on the calendar of the World Bicycle Federation – class 1, and the total prize fund amounts at 8.500 euros.

Considering the fact that there will be assigned world points, it is attended an exciting race and an intense competition. The trail is 74 km long and passes through the attractive old centre of Poreč which typical Mediterranean ambience is enriched by numerous historic-cultural monuments which comprise the complex of the Euphrasian basilica from 1997 included in the UNESCO’s world list of protected cultural heritage.

A novelty for all the interested: amongst the professional international race this year we have organized an additional shorter, 38 km long track for amateurs. We are also glad to announce a rich entertainment program with music, fun, animation and many prizes, audiovisual registration of the race and lunch for all the participants.

The hotel company Riviera holding from Poreč has prepared some special tourist arrangements and affordable prices for all the cyclists.See you in Poreč!

Date:30th April 2006
Competition type:Marathon Istria Terra Magica Bike (UCI E1)
Course:Marathon Istria Terra Magica Bike (UCI 1),
CLASSIC 79,6 km / 950 m altitude
(Group start for the following categories:
Elite, U23, Women, Master 1&2, Sport 1&2)

Marathon Istria Terra Magica Bike,
SMALL 53,2 km / 370 m altitude
(Group start for the following categories:
Juniors, Master 3&4, Hobby-Tourist)

Authorized categories:
Elite, U-23, Women, Sport,
Master 1&2, Master 3&4, Hobby-Tourist

Start:Start in Poreč at 10.30 am
Registration and start fee till 15th April 2006:Istria Terra Magica Bike (E1) = 20 €
Additional fee from 16th till 29th April 2006:Istria Terra Magica Bike (E1) = 25 €

Number assignment:
● Saturday, 29th April 2006 from 12 am till 7 pm directly in the race office at the Hotel Pical in Poreč,
● Sunday, 30th April 2006 from 7 till 9 pm at the info point at Poreč

Entry fee includes:
The course will be signposted from April 2006; race number holder; professional timing; Mechanical help in the start area; medical assistance; free parking; food stops along the course; prize total of € 8.500,00; pasta party; online results; bike washing at the finish; race pack for every entrant; free entry into the various activities; male and female showers, shuttle service for bikers (broom service); welcome party

Prizes:
Overall prize purse: 4.140 € cash. Prize purse will be awarded to riders in the following categories: Elite, U-23, Women, Master and Sport. Practical prizes will be awarded to riders in all categories.

Prize giving ceremonies:
● Sunday, 30th April 2006 at the finish lane in Poreč

President of the Commissaires Panel: Csilla Tam (Hungary)

General rules:
The event applies the mountain bike technical rules of the Croatian Biking Union, the UCI International Mountain Bike Regulations and the general regulations of the UCI. The organizer will not be held accountable for civil and legal responsibilities of the competitors towards third parties. The event will take place regardless the weather conditions.

Complaints:
According to the book of regulations by placing the deposit of 100 kn

Istria - Croatia / The rights holiday destinations

The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mary

Roman Pula

Istra Inspirit

Motovun

Don’t miss:

Interesting facts:

Oprtalj / Istria

Oprtalj

Visit:

Interesting facts:

Travel to Rovinj / Istria ..

Apartments in Istria

Istrian wine / Wine in Istria, Croatia

Umag , ATP Studena Croatia Open

22. ATP Studena Croatia Open 21.-31.07.2011

ATP Umag Party Nights

Istria Gourmet & Jazz Festival program

Thursday, 21.7.2011.

Friday, 22.07.2011.

Saturday, 23.7.2011.

Sunday, 24.7.2011.

Monday, 25.7.2011.

Tuesday, 26.7.2011.

Wednesday, 27.7.2011.

Thursday, 28.7.2011.

Friday, 29.7.2011.

Saturday, 30.7.2011.

Sunday, 31.7.2011.

Olive oil roads in Istria

Brijuni National Park

Olive oil in Istria

Hotels Lovran / Istria Hotels

Hotel Villa Astra ****

S1 / Hotel room(2 + 1)

S2 / Hotel room(2 + 1)

Astra Wellness & SPA / Wellness & SPA

Restoran Vila Astra / Restaurants

Festival Kvarner in Opatija

Festival Kvarner / Program

FR 03.

Friday 03 June 2011 | 20.00 clock Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

TU 21.

Tuesday 21 June 2011 | 20.00 clock Villa Astra | Lovran

SA 25.

Saturday 25 June 2011 | 20.00 clock Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

TU 06.

Tuesday 06 September 2011 | 20.00 clock Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

SA 01.

Saturday 01 October 2011 | 20.00 clock Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

SA 29.

Saturday 29 October 2011 | 20.00 clock Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

Arena, Pula / Events 2011

18/06/11 - Zucchero

02/07/11 - Humanitarni koncert Biskupije

05/07/11 - Seal

10/07/11 - "Jalta, Jalta"

16/07/11 - 58.festival igranog filma

26/07/11 -Jack Johnson-To the Sea Tour 2011

30/07/11 - Tony Cetinski

06/08/11 - Gloria Gaynor i Ivo Gamulin

13/08/11 - Đorđe Balašević

27/08/11 - Gibonni

Istrian ham

CROATIA CRUISE - Gulets (Sailing ships)

CROATIA CRUISE (Sailing ships)

GULET BASES

Flotilla sailing Croatia

Team building on the sea

Hallowind 2008 - 31.10. - 02.11. Premantura

Kroz Istru - Tour d'Istrie cycling races

Tied around the Pula Arena

The tying of the knot

The sponsors

The official program

The final phase

New Metro in Croatia

''CULTURAL SUMMER OF FAŽANA 2006'' - Manifestation calendar

''CULTURAL SUMMER OF FAŽANA 2006'' - Manifestation calendar

Istria Terra Magica Bike 2006

FR
03.

Friday 03 June 2011 | 20.00 clock
Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

TU
21.

Tuesday 21 June 2011 | 20.00 clock
Villa Astra | Lovran

SA
25.

Saturday 25 June 2011 | 20.00 clock
Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

TU
06.

Tuesday 06 September 2011 | 20.00 clock
Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

SA
01.

Saturday 01 October 2011 | 20.00 clock
Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall

SA
29.

Saturday 29 October 2011 | 20.00 clock
Opatija, Hotel Kvarner | Crystal Hall