Archive for 'Castles & Palaces in Croatia'

  

Wednesday, July 12, 2023
Pazin

When one arrives at the pretty and historic town of Pazin, they will find a peaceful and unpretentious place. It is not, perhaps, the first choice for some when it comes to holiday destinations as it does not boast endless attractions and is not the most glamorous place in the world. However, those looking for an authentic Istrian experience, people who enjoy being a little off the beaten path, those who want to avoid overly touristy destinations, and anyone looking for a perfect base from which to explore the wider region will find that a villa in Pazin is an ideal option for a perfect getaway in Istria.


The administrative capital and known as the, “heart of Istria,” Pazin is visually captivating and has been capturing the hearts and imaginations of those who visit or hear of the place for some time. In fact, Pazin is a great example of the so-called, "Green Istria", the area inland, away from the famous coast, where the region is lush and dramatic and ripe for exploration and adventure. This part of Istria is known for craggy mountains, forests, valleys, rivers, and caves. It is a place to enjoy all sorts of outdoor pursuits from zip-lining to hiking, mountain-biking to exploring caves. 

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Posted in: Activities, Castles & Palaces, Hiking, Localities, Must See Attractions, Pretty Views, Small Towns, Tourist Attractions

  

Tuesday, May 21, 2019
Ružica Grad, Croatia
If you have found a vacation rental in Karlovac and are looking for a wonderful daytrip destination that combines a bit of a stretch of the legs, incredible views of the amazingly lush Croatian landscape in this part of the country, a stunning ruin of a historic architectural gem in an impressive setting, fascinating local legend and much more besides then you should head towards Ružica Grad. This medieval castle fortress is one of the largest in Croatia and is entangled in tales of fairies and noblemen but is also one of the most picture-perfect places in the country and a must-see for those in search of hidden gems that are far from mass tourism.

The actual origins of the building are not properly known but, per local legend, the area in which the castle is located used to be the meeting place of fairies and where magic potions were made. That is, until a nobleman decided to build a fortified city right on top of their meeting place. The fairies were very upset and used their magic to fight back, ruining whatever the workers had built during the day overnight.     Read More
Posted in: Activities, Architectural Gems, Castles & Palaces, Curiosities, Hiking, Legends, Must See Attractions, Pretty Views, Tourist Attractions

  

Thursday, September 27, 2018
Glass bottles, Museum of Ancient Glass
Zadar, a stunning city and seaside resort town on the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia, is a beautiful gem that is full of unique attractions, history, culture and things to see and do. One of the most interesting attractions - and a perfect place to nip into for some peace and to take a break from the sun – has to be the Museum of Ancient Glass. Just find a holiday rental in Zadar and plan a sunny getaway filled with intrigue, surprises and special attractions around every corner.     Read More
Posted in: Castles & Palaces, Curiosities, Museums & Galleries, Must See Attractions, Pretty Views, Tourist Attractions

  

Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Sunset
If you have found a vacation rental in the charming Croatian city of Rijeka, then you're likely not going to miss the Trsat Castle as it is perched in a strategic position high above the city. Boasting an amazing view over the surrounding area, it is one of the oldest fortifications on the Croatian coast a well-preserved medieval gem and also a recreation area, historical monument and pilgrimage site, all rolled into one.

The castle is first recorded when it was mentioned as a parochial centre in 1288, though the site had been known as an observation post since prehistoric times and was important for the Romans to establish their defence system, the so-called Liburnian limes. The present structure was built by the Frankopan dukes of Krk but it has been altered over the years, the latest changes being made in 1824 under Irish-born count Laval Nugent, a commander in the Austrian army, who bought the castle and restored in a romantic neoclassical Biedermeier style.     Read More
Posted in: Castles & Palaces, Museums & Galleries, Pretty Views, Tourist Attractions

  

Wednesday, January 31, 2018
Building
Tvrdalj Castle is a well-preserved Renaissance palace that was built in the 15th century but is best known for its alterations and ownership under Petar Hektorović, a famous Croatian Renaissance poet, in the 16th century. It was during Petar's time in the castle that the building was fortified, expanded and became a sanctuary to travellers, locals in times of war, religious women, animals and plants. Both he and building are rather fascinating and extraordinary. Just find a vacation rental in Hvar and spend some time exploring and learning about this wonderful building and its incredible history.

Built across one storey, the building surrounds a fishpond that was created as a habitat for grey mullet, with a system to ensure a fresh supply of seawater. Above this is a small tower that has a dovecot for birds, and a garden with flowers and trees for land animals and an area in which herbs and medicinal plants were cultivated.     Read More
Posted in: Architectural Gems, Castles & Palaces, Curiosities, Must See Attractions, Tourist Attractions