Istria's museums: exploring cultural treasures

Istria is undeniably one of the most beautiful and most visited regions in Croatia. Its beauty lies in a harmonious blend of stunning landscapes, rich history and vibrant culture. Istria is dotted with charming, well-preserved medieval towns like Porec, Rovinj, Pula or Motovun. Their cobblestone streets, ancient architecture, and hilltop views create a magical atmosphere. Istria's history is rich and diverse, evident in its Roman ruins, Venetian architecture and well-preserved medieval structures. In many Istria museums, you can explore rich historical and cultural art heritage. Museums in Croatia are diverse in exhibitions of art throughout history. Museums in Istria offer a unique insight into the history of this most fascinating region of Croatia.

Museums in bigger Istrian cities

In Istria, there are several museums worth visiting during your stay in one of our beautiful villas with a pool located on the coastline or in the interior of Istria's peninsula. Most visited towns in Istria, and tourist centres such as Pula, Porec, Rovinj or Umag are the places where you will be able to explore the town's rich history, traditions, and local crafts exposed in one of the museums in Istria.

Istrian Olive Oil Museum, Pula

The Istrian Olive Oil Museum in Pula is a place where you can experience the authentic tradition of olive oil preparation. This museum showcases the history of olive oil production in Istria through various exhibits, artefacts and displays. You can learn about the cultivation of olive trees, traditional methods of olive extraction and the historical significance of olive oil in Istrian culture and cuisine. This olive oil museum also offers a tasting session experience or workshops on olive oil production.

MEMO Museum of Good Memories, Pula

Memo Museum Pula is one of the most unusual museums in Istria. This interactive multimedia museum showcases the life of the inhabitants of Pula in the second half of the 20th century, more accurately from the fifties to the eighties. The museum presents the life of an average Pula family in this era through the three entities enclosed in the museum: the street, the square and the apartment. Some of the items the visitors will be able to see are a black and white television, an old computer or one of the legendary cars from this era called „Fico“.

Archaeological Museum of Istria, Pula

The Archaeological Museum of Istria is located in Pula and showcases Istria's rich archaeological heritage. It is located in the historic Austro-Hungarian fortress called the Kastel. It presents a diverse collection of artefacts and exhibits from prehistoric, Roman, medieval and early modern periods. Among other artefacts, the museum has an extensive collection of Roman artefacts such as mosaics, inscriptions or sculptures that reflect the region’s historical ties with the Roman Empire. The museum has educational programs, guided tours and workshops available for its visitors.

Rovinj Heritage Museum

The Rovinj Heritage Museum is situated in the coastal town of Rovinj. Housed in a historic Baroque palace, this museum offers its visitors a glimpse of Rovinj’s past through its diverse collections and exhibitions. Except for Rovinj’s maritime heritage, you can explore a wide array of artefacts such as historical documents, traditional costumes and objects. This Croatian Heritage Museum occasionally hosts temporary exhibitions focusing on specific themes related to Rovinj’s history and art.

Batana Eco-Museum, Rovinj

The Batana Eco-Museum in Rovinj is a unique cultural museum where is preserved the traditional wooden boat called “batana”. This maritime heritage of Rovinj offers its visitors an experience of local fishing culture and the significance of the batana in the history of this town. Besides exhibits and artefacts, the museum displays various tools, equipment and artefacts offering insights into the fishing techniques and customs of Rovinj’s fishermen.

Euphrasian Basilica, Porec

The Euphrasian Basilica Porec Croatia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant cultural and historical landmarks in Istria. The basilica dates back to the 6^th century and is an outstanding example of early Byzantine architecture. It is named after Bishop Euphrasius who initiated its construction in the 6^th century. The highlight of the Euphrasian Basilica Porec is its beautifully preserved mosaics found in the apse, the central part of the church. They depict biblical scenes, portraits of saints and decorative motifs. The Euphrasian Basilica Porec opening hours are at 9:00 and it is closed at 16:00.

Tractor Story, Nova Vas (near Porec)

Tractor Story Porec is an intriguing museum dedicated to showcasing the history and evolution of tractors and agricultural machinery in Istria. It is located in the town called Nova Vas near Porec. The museum features a collection of vintage and modern tractors offering an interesting historical perspective on agricultural technology and machinery and its significance in the rural life of Istria.

Museums in smaller Istrian places

In smaller Istria towns there is also a rich cultural history presented in various museums offering an authentic perspective on the rural life of Istria throughout history. The interior of Istria is mostly significant for the traditional production of wine, olive oil and other gastronomical specialities. In the towns of Motovun, Grožnjan, Labin or Hum you will be able to enjoy the charming atmosphere of Istria's interior and explore the historical and cultural diversity in some of its museums.

Secret Garden, Motovun

The Secret Garden Motovun invites you to enjoy the peaceful ambience of the untouched nature in the hilltop town of Istria. The serene atmosphere follows you on every step through the garden pathways surrounded by lush greenery. You will be able to enjoy the panoramic views since the garden is located on the hillside and provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside and vineyards.

Tourist Office, Groznjan

Although it’s not a museum, the Tourist Office Groznjan is a great starting point for everybody who wants to explore the interior of Istria. Groznjan is known as an artistic city which attracts visitors interested in its medieval architecture, art galleries and vibrant cultural scene.

Museum of Hum AurA, Hum - the smallest town in the world

The Museum of Hum Aura is located in the smallest city in the world – Hum. This picturesque town of Istria is renowned for its diminutive size and historic charm. It has a population of around 20 residents. In Hum can be found one interesting museum of traditional crafts called Aura. It is located in the distillery and historical buildings. The museum’s permanent exhibition consists of nearly 1500 exhibits carefully arranged in 11 thematic units representing predominant crafts of the last 150 years. For example, pharmacy, distillery, post office etc.

Labin Public Museum

The Labin Public Museum is located in Labin, a small town on the east coast of Istria. It preserves the rich history of Labin and its surroundings. The museum houses various exhibits that showcase the history, traditions and cultural heritage of Labin. They include art collections and historical artefacts providing insight into the town’s economic and social history.