Excursion Hidden gems of medieval istria experience tour at Pula

Roc Village

Your outing begins as you leave the pier in Pula and head northeast into the lush countryside and rolling hills of Istria. Your destination is Roc, a hilltop village and cultural treasure with well-preserved medieval town walls, a collection of Roman stone artifacts, a Venetian wrought-iron cannon, and a functional watchtower. Explore the Church of St. Anthony, an 11th-century Romanesque church, and see the beautiful 14th-century frescoes in St. Roch Church, depicting St. Paul and the Apostles. The St. Bartholomew Parish Church, with its 85-foot steeple from 1676, is another highlight. After a brief walking tour of Roc, visit a local artist's workshop for a fresco presentation.

Glagolitic Alley, Town of Hum

Next, travel along Glagolitic Alley, a series of monuments celebrating the earliest known Slavic script, and arrive at Hum, arguably the world’s smallest town. Hum’s medieval architecture remains intact, with houses built into its defensive walls. See the bell tower and the Church of St. Jerome, which features ancient Glagolitic wall writings from the 12th century.

Museum of Hum Aura, Distillery Bar, Brandy Tasting

Following your town tour, proceed for a visit to the Museum of Hum Aura. Its permanent exhibition comprises nearly 1,500 exhibits arranged in 11 thematic rooms. Each represents an indispensable segment of ancestral life and the dominant craft shops of the last 150 years: an old pharmacy, school, post office, shop, distillery, cobbler, carpenter, tailor, mill, fresco painting workshop, and a themed room dedicated to Glagolitic script. The museum is located in a medieval building that once served as the City Lodge, where prefects were elected, and the most important decisions were made. The museum also includes the Distillery Bar Aura, where you can sample locally crafted brandy.

After the visit, relax and enjoy a snack at a local restaurant before reboarding your coach for a leisurely drive back to the pier in Pula.

Points of interests

Points of Interest: Roc Village, Glagolitic Alley, Town of Hum, Museum of Hum Aura, Distillery Bar, Brandy Tasting

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking (approximately 1,000 yards), at times on inclines, and over uneven, cobblestone surfaces. As well, there are about 20 steps to climb. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilize a wheelchair.  Guests should wear weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, and sun protection. The tour sequence may vary. Participants must be at least 18 years old to partake in alcoholic beverage tastings.