Q.ne.S.T. DC2.5 Publications on Capitalized best practices and routes: revised reports and informative sheets on the capitalization activities on best practices and routes.

Istria () ______

QNeST International Itineraries:

Wine and Olive Oil Itinerary

The theme of the Mediterranean Diet, with a particular focus on oil and wine, runs through all the countries of the EUSAIR area. The landscapes, characterised by olive groves and vineyards, bear witness to the common culture of the Euro-Mediterranean area, although each region has its own cultivars and production techniques. Oil and wine have always been used not just in food, but also in the rituals of the various belief systems practised on the shores of the Mediterranean. All the areas involved in the QNeST brand are crossed by routes linked to oil and wine.

In Puglia, the greenways involving olive groves and vineyards are characterised by centuries-old monumental olive trees and olive oil mills, extensive vineyards and wineries. Along these routes in Xanthi, the olive trees stand out in all their majesty, while the wine route bears witness to the region's historic identity. The olive route in Epirus also highlights the bond between the centuries- old olive trees and the region. In the Marche region, the "Emotions without Borders" and "Experience the Region" routes allow you to discover the wealth of local heritage. The "Cycling through the Wineries" route allows you to enjoy the wineries in the Euganean Hills in in combination with the spas in the area. The vineyards and wineries of Montenegro are a constant theme of the "Historic and Natural treasure Route". hosts routes in both Croatia and ;

in the former on the themes of olive oil, wine and ham, a characteristic local product, and in the latter on stone, the coast and olive groves.

Travellers, merchants and pilgrims

The Mediterranean is a sea enclosed by land, since time immemorial connecting the various cultures that have evolved along its shores. Since ancient times, this sea has been crossed by peoples, merchants, pilgrims and travellers of all kinds, carrying with them cultural baggage and experiences that have shaped its regions, traditions, languages and cultures. The QNeST Brand promotes cultural activities via specific itineraries.

The Via Francigena Greenway runs through the Salento peninsula in Puglia, offering "slow tourism" activities that allow the visitor to discover hidden treasures and ancient traditions between Brindisi and Otranto, following the routes of ancient travellers who embarked for the Orient. Closely connected to this theme is "The Way to Jerusalem" in the region of Xanthi, in , while in Epirus, religious heritage routes highlight the Byzantine monasteries. In the Marches, the "Gira- Sole" project promotes cultural activities in the area of Pesaro. In Veneto, the "Literary Park of the Euganean Hills" hosts locations that have inspired poets and writers, while other routes allow the visitor to admire the splendid Venetian villas and castles along the River Brenta. In Montenegro the Virpazar and Skadar Lake National Park route includes landscapes, monuments and flavours around Skadar Lake

Dry Stone

Traditional dry-stone building techniques, recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage, are another shared feature of the regions surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. The QNeST Brand promotes routes connected to this important theme: used to build boundary walls, small circular buildings of various kinds, retaining walls for

agricultural terraces and underground places of worship, the stones tell the history of the locations where they are deployed.

The Dry Stones Greenways in Puglia are based on the importance of stone and its use in boundary walls, buildings, underground oil mills, crypts and rock-cut settlements. In the region of Xanthi, "Myths and Culture" is a historical and cultural tourist route linked to the myth of Hercules. In Epirus, the Stone Route runs through the mountain villages of Pindos. In Istria, the Stone Walls route showcases the rural area of , where stone is a key element of the landscape. In Montenegro, the Njegusi village and Lovćen National Park route takes the visitor on a spectacular journey from Kotor, on the coast, to the mountains inland, with an opportunity to enjoy the distinctive flavours of the local food and wine of Njegusi.

Water

Water is something that the countries of the Adriatic-Ionian area all share. In terms of nature, it includes wetlands, springs, rivers and lakes both near the coasts and inland. In terms of human activity, it plays a role in religious rites, gastronomic traditions and even health, as seen in the use of thermal spring waters since ancient times. This is reflected in the proximity of places of worship, cisterns, canals and spas, evidence of the day-to-day link between water and the human population. Then there is the sea, which, in addition to forming a vast ecosystem and a shared asset for the various populations, over time has enabled them to communicate with each other thanks to the art of navigation.

In Puglia there are water-themed greenways in the coastal area from the archaeological park of Egnatia to the Alimini Lakes near Otranto, characterised by a mosaic of wetlands, ancient archaeological sites and spas. In the Veneto region, the Euganean Hills and Spas Area Brand combines thermal spring waters with local food and wine. In the Marche region, a route starts from the coast near Fano, before heading inland along the Furlo Gorge to the "Grotta dei folletti" in Acqualagna. Montenegro proposes a boat trip to discover the natural and cultural heritage of Lake Skadar. Lastly, Epirus proposes the "National Parks of Epirus" network, rich in natural ecosystems and beautiful landscapes.

QNeST Local Routes:

Cultural-Natural Route Of Istria

Motovun is a medieval hilltop town that rivals the top towns in Tuscany in terms of sheer beauty. Situated on the top of a hill and overlooking the Istrian countryside, it is perfect to grab a glass of the local wine in a cute little restaurant overlooking the land. Here you can find specialty shops with free truffle tastings as Istria is famous for truffle hunting. Only 25 minutes card ride will bring you to Grožnjan - art city of Istria. You can feel the artistic vibe as soon as you enter Grožnjan with streets full of quirky art shops. From Grožnjan for 22 minutes you can reach cave Mramornica situated in considered by many speleologists to be one of Istria's largest and loveliest subterranean structures. Your next stop should be Baredine Cave a geomorphologic monument of nature and the first speleologic locality and tourist cave in Istria opened for visits since 1995. The sightseeing lasts 40 minutes, visitors descend along a 300m long pathway up to 60m below the ground and an underground lake and visit 5 beautifully decorated chambers. As you are already near Poreč, don't miss to visit Euphrasian basilica, one of the most significant world historical monuments it was put on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List in 1997. In Poreč you can enjoy the evening sunset on the terrace of many lovely restaurants near the sea while drinking famous local wine.

North Istria Route

Route starts from east of Istria in nature park Učka. Učka is well known to mountaineers and nature lovers as highest Istrian mountain with lovely view on green and blue part of Croatia. Next point to stop is the smallest city in the world, known as Hum which was built with the stones left over when giants were building towns in the river valley. Your next stop only 7 km away should be small typical lovely town of Istria - Roč known for rich cultural heritage based on Glagolitic script. Going towards central Istria, you should go truffle hunting in Livade with specially trained dogs and try this special ''potatoes'' known for its taste and aphrodisiac affects. For the end of the route and to make it unforgettable as a unique experience, we recommend a sunset, glass of celebrated wine, view on charming landscapes of Istria at Arman Marijan Winery in Vižinada.

South Istria Route

For a whole day experience of south Istria, we recommend the route which includes cultural and natural beauty in the same time. Starting for Vodnjan where you can visit the Church of St. Blase and see pilgrims from all over the world. After that, you should try Chiavalon olive oil as it is one of the best olive oils in the world which is located as well in Vodnjan. If you prefer more wine, you can visit excellent award winning Babos winery located as well in Vodnjan. After that you can enjoy in natural beauty of divine national park Brijuni. You should catch a boat line starting from Fažana to reach Brijuni. The ride lasts about 15 minutes, and during that time you can enjoy on the deck with a beautiful view of Brijuni, Fažana Channel and the south-west of the Istrian peninsula.After docking in the Veliki Brijun port, you will be welcomed by a tourist train and a guide with whom you will take a peek into the world of Brijuni Islands. Must see afterward is definetly Amphiteater, the sight of gladiator fights or if you prefer more fortresses, there is Punta Christo. South Istria visit would not be experienced to the fullest if you don't visit cape Kamenjak and take a bath on various beaches forming an area of exceptional natural beauty including 11 unhabitated islands.

QNeST Brand Member: ______

Meneghetti Wine hotel & Winery

Activity: Accommodation services

. Meneghetti Wine Hotel offers true comfort in 9 luxury rooms and suites, ranging in size from 25 to 65 m2. The rooms are decorated in a way that gives you exceptional privacy, guaranteed and complete discretion. Equipped with traditional and contemporary furniture, each room offers an open view of vineyards or olive groves.

Main Driver: Mediterranean diet

Town: Bale- Municipality: County of Istria - Country: Croatia

Full Address: Stancija Menegeti 1, 52 211 Bale

Latitude: 45.007899 - Longitude: 13.745833

**************************************************************************************************************** San Canzian Village & Hotel

Activity: Accommodation services

San Canzian is an authentic luxury Village & Hotel, with 25 rooms and suites, situated in a medieval village of Mužolini Donji, near and Grožnjan, a 14th-century Venetian fortress, reborn as the most important art colony in Istria.

The location known from the ancient times as Kastion/Castrum/Castiloni is situated in Mužolini Donji, between Buje and Krasica. This fort and its surroundings were always a secret safe place for the locals. Fertile valleys and fresh water, olives and wine, all prerequisites for a good life. A small Romanesque chapel was named after St Cantianus. The fortress is long gone, for centuries now, and the only thing remaining are the chapel foundations. But nature has stayed the same. It is still a secret place and a starting point for all travelers who come to explore and enjoy Istria. The San Canzian estate was entirely transformed and renovated with care and finesse of every detail with Istria as everlasting inspiration.

Main Driver: Mediterranean diet

Town: Buje- Municipality: County of Istria - Country: Croatia

Full Address: Mužolini Donji 7

Latitude: 45.38751 - Longitude: 13.686499

**************************************************************************************************************** San Servolo Resort & Beer Spa

Activity: Accommodation services an Servolo Resort is a luxurious four-star boutique hotel and a beer spa resort, settled within the hilly countryside near the town of Buje in western Istria.

Main Driver: Mediterranean diet

Town: Buje- Municipality: County of Istria - Country: Croatia

Full Address: Momjanska ulica 7, 52460 Buje

Latitude: 45.418561 - Longitude: 13.668329

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QNeST Stakeholders: ______

Winery Djurisic

Activity: Farming

The winery is placed in Godinje, Crmnica region, world famous for wine. You need to come and taste

Main Driver: Mediterranean diet

Town: Podgorica- Municipality: Podgorica - Country: Montenegro

Full Address: Crmnica

Latitude: 42.310577 - Longitude: 19.120571

Explore Skadar Lake

Activity: Tour operator

Explore Skadar Lake can offer you variety of activities. Accommodation in traditional house with traditional furniture, option for traditional breakfast, and then guided tour to different routes you are interested on Skadar Lake.

Main Driver: Cultural & traditional heritage

Town: Podgorica- Municipality: Podgorica - Country: Montenegro

Full Address: Crmnica

Latitude: 42.312354 - Longitude: 19.1139

**************************************************************************************************************** Winery Jankovic

Activity: Other

The local family winery Jankovic in the most fruitful area of Drusici region, Cetinje Municipality.

The taste and quality of wine in Drusici region is of high quality, recognized in whole Montenegro.

Main Driver: Mediterranean diet

Town: Cetinje- Municipality: Cetinje - Country: Montenegro

Full Address: Drusici

Latitude: 42.360066 - Longitude: 19.08074

**************************************************************************************************************** Popovic Njegusi

Activity: Farming

Popovic Boro is placed in Njegusi, near Cetinje, offering traditional food

We offer traditional food, smoked ham, cheese, honey and brendy. These are all crucial traditional diet in Njegusi, near Cetinje, the home place of Montenegrin poet and ruler Petar Petrovic Njegos.

Main Driver: Mediterranean diet

Town: Njegusi- Municipality: Cetinje - Country: Montenegro

Full Address: Njegusi

Latitude: 42.37313 - Longitude: 18.801496

**************************************************************************************************************** National Parks Montenegro

Activity: Other

There are 5 national parks in Montenegro: Lovćen, Durmitor, Biogradska gora, Skadarsko jezero, Prokletije. Natural and cultural values are shown in their centres, while the possibilities for active holiday and rest are numerous.

Main Driver: Cultural & traditional heritage

Town: Podgorica- Municipality: Podgorica - Country: Montenegro

Full Address: Trg vojvode Bećir-bega Osmanagića 16

Latitude: 42.435604 - Longitude: 19.260241

**************************************************************************************************************** Tivat Airport

Activity: Tour operator

Airoport Tivat, one of two International airports

Tivat airport is located right next to the city of Tivat, 8 km (5 mi) from the center of Kotor, and 20 km (12 mi) north-west of Budva, one of the most popular tourist destinations on the eastern Adriatic coast. The sole runway of the airport ends just 88 m (289 ft) from the coastline of the Bay of Kotor. Tivat Airport is assigned 4D classification by ICAO,[1] airspace class D, and is noted for its challenging approach and landing procedures. Landing at Tivat is considered demanding due to hilly terrain surrounding the valley in which the airport is situated, and strong prevailing crosswinds. Runway 32 approach requires a descent into the valley of Tivatsko polje,[2] and a 20° turn for runway alignment just before landing. Runway 14 approach is even more challenging, because of the circle-to-land maneuver executed in the dramatic scenery surrounding the Bay of Kotor. It is known among pilots as the European Kai Tak because of its tricky approach and landing procedures.[citation needed] Passengers landing at Tivat have views of the bay, the surrounding mountains and a low flyby over Porto Montenegro luxury yacht marina.[citation needed] The airport is also commonly visited by plane spotters, as end of the runway is easily accessible and offers unobstructed views of takeoffs and landings, with a mountain backdrop. Year-round services from

the airport include Belgrade and Moscow; however, more than 80% of the traffic is concentrated in the summer period[citation needed], with the introduction of seasonal and charter flights. With the opening of Porto Montenegro and introduction of other high-end tourist services, the airport increasingly caters to business jets. Adriatic Highway (E65/E80) passes right by the passenger terminal, making the airport easily accessible from the entire northern part of Montenegrin coast.

Main Driver: Accessibility and social well-being tourism services

Town: Tivat- Municipality: Tivat - Country: Montenegro

Full Address: 27 Narodnih Heroja, Tivat, Μοντενέγκρο

Latitude: 45.58329 - Longitude: 23.608438

**************************************************************************************************************** QNeST Points of Interest: ______

Brijuni National Park

Along the coast of western Istria, there are several groups of islands among which the most interesting, the largest and the most indented is the Brijuni group of 14 islands and islets. The total surface area of the Brijuni National Park is 3,395.00 ha, of which there is 2,651.70 ha of sea, while the surface of the islands is 743.30 ha. The length of all island coastlines amounts to 46.82 km, while the length of the sea border amounts to 22.93 km.

Main Driver: Sustainable Environment

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.913763- Longitude: 13.750389

**************************************************************************************************************** Cape Kamenjak

The Kamenjak Peninsula or Cape Kamenjak also known as the Peninsula of Premantura (Punta) is the southernmost cape of Istria. Kamenjak is a protruding piece of land delving deep into the sea, some six kilometers long with the average width of about a kilometre. Kamenjak rugged coastline, some 30 kilometers long consist of numerous bay and various beaches forming an area of exceptional natural beauty including 11 unhabitated islands. The west coast of Kamenjak is stepper and its northern part partly encloses the Bay.

Main Driver: Sustainable Environment

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.782079- Longitude: 13.909762

**************************************************************************************************************** Učka Nature Park

Učka Nature Park encompasses Mount Učka and a part of the Ćićarija mountain range. It is located along the northern Adriatic coast at one of the most northerly points of the Mediterranean, right where Istria meets the continental part of Croatia.

Main Driver: Sustainable Environment

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.273437- Longitude: 14.200513

**************************************************************************************************************** Kotli

Kotli was once the leading economic village of the Hum area- Humština, with well-known millers and tailors. The water mill has been preserved to this day. Today Kotli is a protected rural complex with preserved courtyards, outer staircases, arched passages and picturesque chimneys. The Mirna river flows through the village forming waterfalls and hollowing cauldron-like forms in stone that gave the village its name (Croatian kotao=cauldron).

Main Driver: Sustainable Environment

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.352055- Longitude: 14.045407

**************************************************************************************************************** cave

Pazin cave is a speleological object which is protected by law and can be visited only with guides - the of members of Speleological Association "Istra" Pazin, in cooperation with the Public Institution "Natura Histrica".The underground part of the trail is about 200 m long and it ends with a big hall and an underground lake which length is 80 m. There is a small zip line inside the speleological object which transfer visitors to a sandbar of the underground lake. It gives unique dimension to the speleo – adventure.

Main Driver: Sustainable Environment

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.239919- Longitude: 13.931526

**************************************************************************************************************** Baredine cave

Baredine cave is a real treasure of stalactites and stalagmites, underground sculptures created by patient and long lasting work of water. Because of its uniqueness the cave was declared a monument of nature and it has been opened for visitors since 1995.

Main Driver: Sustainable Environment

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.270598- Longitude: 13.661885

**************************************************************************************************************** Lim Bay

The Lim bay (Limski kanal) and valley is a peculiar geographic feature found near and on the western coast of Istria, south of Poreč, Croatia. The name comes from the Latin limes for "limit", referring to the landform's position at the border of two Roman provinces: and Italia.

Main Driver: Sustainable Environment

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.135979- Longitude: 13.709044

**************************************************************************************************************** Romuald's cave

The half-a-meter-high entrance to the cave is 120 meters above sea level and its corridors are 105 meters long. At the entrance, you have to mind your head, but in the main hall of the cave, which is six meters high, you can stretch out comfortably enjoying cave decorations. In the cave, there is also a protected colony of Myotis myotis bats, one of the last colonies of this species in Europe. The memory of St. Romuald, the most famous inhabitant of this mystical cave, is celebrated on 19 June, the day of his death, and Romuald's ground beetle, an endemic insect subspecies that lives only in the caves of Istria and Kvarner, was named after him.

Main Driver: Sustainable Environment

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.127032- Longitude: 13.737413

Mramornica cave

Mramornica Cave, one of the biggest and most beautiful caves of the Istrian peninsula, is located near Brtonigla, in north-west Istria. It was first mentioned in 1770 when it was visited and described by well-known travel writer Alberto Fortis. Although the cave was first mentioned in the 18th century, local population knew of it from the ancient time. In the prehistoric era, Mramornica was used by the inhabitants of ancient Istria. Today there are established and well protected walking paths going inside the cave taking curious visitors deep into its interior and providing them with a superb view of unreachable parts. Many subterranean chambers are decorated by multi-coloured stalactites and stalagmites reaching the height of 13 m.

Main Driver: Sustainable Environment

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.368564- Longitude: 13.621924

**************************************************************************************************************** Pula Amphiteater

The most famous and important monument, the starting and ending point of every sightseeing tour is the Amphitheater, popularly called the Arena of Pula, which was once the site of gladiator fights. It was built in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, at the same time as the magnificent Colosseum in Rome.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.873203- Longitude: 13.850117

**************************************************************************************************************** Parish church of St. Blase

One of the most impressive structures in Vodnjan and entire Istria is certainly the parish church of St. Blaise, well-known to pilgrims from all over the world. On the site of the present-day parish church once stood a basilica, most probably from the 11th century, that was pulled down in 1760. The new church was modelled after the Venetian church of San Pietro, and the project itself cost 13,000 gold coins. The church was financed by the townspeople and its construction lasted from 1760 to 1800. At that time the locals set aside 10% for the building of the church, whereas over the next ten years they set aside 10% of wine and olive oil. Today this church is the largest and one of the most magnificent ones in Istria. Apart from the relics of St. Blaise, Vodnjan's parish church

also keeps 370 relics belonging to 250 different saints. In addition to one of the thorns from Jesus' crown, fragment of the Holy Virgin's veil, particle of Jesus' Cross and many others, a special attraction are the desiccated remains of saints whose bodies or body parts have been completely preserved: St. Sebastian, St. Barbara, St. Mary of Egypt, St. Leon Bembo, St. Giovanni Olini and St. Nicolosa Bursa.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.960754- Longitude: 13.847652

**************************************************************************************************************** Rovinj Heritage Museum

Rovinj Heritage Museum is situated in a baroque palace of the Califfi family from the 17th/18th century. The museum was established in 1954 at the initiative of Rovinj fine artists; the idea was to establish a place where cultural wealth could be stored as well as a place where numerous exhibitions could be held.The museum’s role is twofold; as a city gallery and a museum. The museum has carefully collected and preserved thousands of items, some of which are permanently exhibited. Permanent exhibitions are Croatian modern art and the works of the old masters. Other notable collections include that of Alexander Kircher’s paintings, Antonio Ive library, archaeological collection, numismatic collection and many more. With over 35.000 items, 12 museum and 2 library collections Rovinj Heritage Museum is a place to go if you want to learn more about the art and culture of Rovinj. During the tourist season, museum’s working hours are from 10-14 and from 18-22. We recommend that you visit it in the morning hours to avoid the crowds.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.082489- Longitude: 13.634245

**************************************************************************************************************** Višnjan Observatory

The old observatory is situated in the picturesque village of Visnjan, near the coastal town Porec on the Istrian peninsular in Croatia. In November 1992 Visnjan Observatory (IAU/MPC code 120) was founded on a decision made by the Visnjan Amateur Astronomical Society to open a public observatory. The observatory became renowned for its outstanding results in Astrometric measurements and discoveries of small bodies within the solar system. Between 1995 and 2001 Visnjan observatory was responsible for discovering 1749 asteroids. Although the old observatory hasn’t been searching for asteroids for two decades it is still notably one of the most prolific sites for asteroids in the world. Light pollution became particularly bad in Istria between 2000 and 2001,

so much so that by 2001 the Visnjan Observatory had to close. Throughout all that time Visnjan observatory was very involved in projects and educational programmes with the Visnjan Science and Education centre providing scientific courses for students of all ages.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.277065- Longitude: 13.721451

**************************************************************************************************************** Grožnjan

Grožnjan-, a small Istrian town of great cultural significance not only in Croatia but also internationally, lives its summer months very intensely. Every year at the beginning of May, the little streets and squares of Grožnjan-Grisignana metamorphose and turn into a truly artistic beehive: it opens its summer music academies for young people, its artistic, dance and drama workshops and its peace activism workshops under the leadership of well-known experts and teachers and famous names from music, art and drama. he Grožnjan area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and during the Roman rule, a number of buildings were built here, with the area becoming part of a popular commercial route. In the Middle Ages the city centre became richer for its many walls and castles built by the Romans and later by the Venetians in the late Middle Ages. The majority of these buildings still proudly defend the truth about the rich history of this small town today. It was first mentioned in history under the name Piemonte in 1102 when it was donated to the Church.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.378648- Longitude: 13.722813

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At the foot of the Motovun hill, the mythical Jason and the Argonauts sailed along the Mirna River, but the first inhabitants to leave traces populated this area in the period between 3,500 and 2,200 B.C. The first mention of Motovun in written records dates back to 804 and after centuries of domination by the Germans and the Patriarchs of Aquileia, Motovun asked to be accepted under its rule in 1278 and remained so until 1797. At the time of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy this area was renowned for the growing of trees used in ship-building.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.335706- Longitude: 13.828211 Roč

Roč is a typical Istrian town, although not due to its size because only 150 people live there, but because of its rich cultural heritage. Like all other historic Istrian towns it is located on top of a hill and only 8 kilometres away from . It is hard to resist its beauty and perhaps it would have been known only as just another romantic town from a tourist guide had it not been for its extraordinary cultural heritage based on the Glagolitic script. The most important Glagolitic graffito of medieval Istria was discovered here - the Roč Glagolitic Abecedarium. It is not only the oldest, but also the most complete abecedarium, with 34 letters. The 1368 Missal of Duke Novak, one of the most beautiful cultural monuments written in the angular variant of the Croatian Glagolitic script, was prepared for print in Roč, as well as the Missale Romanum Glagolitice, the first book printed in Croatian and the first missal in Europe not written in Latin, the first Slavic incunabulum printed in two colours - red and black, and the first book in the world printed by movable type.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.394743- Longitude: 14.044163

**************************************************************************************************************** Hum

The smallest city in the world. According to the legend, Hum was built with the stones left over when giants were building towns in the river Mirna valley, an area in central Istria that includes wonderful hill towns such as Motovun, Roc and Bale. Despite its small number of residents Hum has preserved the old ritual 'Election of the prefect for a year' when all the men from the parish gather at the Municipal Loggia (town hall) to elect the village superior by carving their votes into a wooden stick.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.348345- Longitude: 14.04948

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Dvigrad was first mentioned in 879, when it fell under the rule of the Patriarch of Aquileia. However, it had existed long before it as a part of the Roman province settlement. Its name speaks originally of two towns. Today's ruins are the remains of the northern town of Moncastello, while the other one, Castel Parentino, was abandoned in the 10th century. Dvigrad fell under the rule of the Counts of Gorizia, it was destroyed by the Genoese fighting against the new owners, the Venice. Many lives and towns were lost in this war, which mainly took place in Istria. It is most likely that Parentino was abandoned at that time, and Montecastello was solely renovated. Following more than a century of peace, the second half of the 16th century was marked by a continuous conflict between Venice and . This is the time of the plague epidemics, followed by the malaria. In 1630, inhabitants had left the town and moved to . Only the poorest family remained in Dvigrad. It was noted that in 1650, the Bishop blessed only three families in Dvigrad. Some twenty years later, the Church of St. Sophia was also abandoned and the time has taken its toll. Current remains represent a well preserved, typical medieval town castle. It is encircled by the two rings of town walls connected by the town gate, of which there are three just as many as its defensive towers. The Church of St. Sophia still dominates the town. It is located on the highest point of town, on the same location from the Early Christian times. It current fascinating three-nave form was built in the 13th century. In front of this Romanesque style edifice there is the main town square and the town palace. Military quarters were located in the town's western part, while the craftsmen inhabited its southwest. The remaining, rather a large area, was occupied by houses for regular citizens.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.126843- Longitude: 13.811891

**************************************************************************************************************** Olive oil roads

At the age of 75 and on the threshold of the new millenium, Mate Vekić bedded his first olive tree in the ground of his beloved Istria and built his mill which now stands above the coast overlooking the Adriatic sea. Every year since then, the careful hand-picking of olives and the milling in real time, produces an extraordinary oil

Main Driver: Mediterranean Diet

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.478177- Longitude: 13.518737

**************************************************************************************************************** Wine tasting - Arman wines

The family-run vineyard and wine cellar of Marijan Arman are located in the Western Istrian winegrowing area, in the immediate vicinity of Poreč, in the Vižinada district, specifically in the village of Narduči.The beautiful views of the walls of ancient Grožnjan, just across the valley of the Mirna River, whose southern slopes bear the constant and inexhaustible source of all our existential and creative inspirations, will leave you breathless with pleasure

Main Driver: Mediterranean Diet

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.338459- Longitude: 13.748197

**************************************************************************************************************** Truffle hunting - Zigante

Truffles represent one of the products Istria is most well-known for – that being said, we have to warn you that there are not a lot of places where you will be served the real deal. At most taverns and restaurants, you will be served a synthetic version of truffles that has a strong aroma but little else of the real stuff. Truffles are similar to potatoes – and are extracted in the same way. Buried deep underneath the ground, they are uncovered by specially trained dogs. In Croatia, truffles can be found around the Mirna River, which is also the safest place to find them. There are three kinds of black truffles in Croatia, as well as the particularly high-quality white truffle, which is very rare and extremely pricy. White truffles can be found from September to January, whereas black truffles – although different varieties – can be found year around.

Main Driver: Mediterranean Diet

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.355493- Longitude: 13.828677

**************************************************************************************************************** Beer Bath

Spa is a pleasure for a vast majority of people as it is - however when you add an original component such as pleasing scents of craft beer - you get a truly unique experience, both relaxing and soothing. Here at San Servolo Resort you can enjoy the first beer spa ever built in Croatia, in the very same location where your stay is and where the beer is actually brewed.

Main Driver: Mediterranean Diet

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.42322- Longitude: 13.6762

**************************************************************************************************************** Istralandia

The Istralandia Aquapark offers the possibility of high quality entertainment for children and adultsmanaged by trained personnel for whom your fun comes first. The rich offer provides you with dancecourses, tournaments, workshops, playgrounds, concerts, sports and recreational events, concertsand many other fun activities. It is up to you to select a programme and up to us to provide you withunforgettable moments of pastime and joy.

Main Driver: Accessibility and Social Well-being

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.357227- Longitude: 13.617384

**************************************************************************************************************** Aquapark Aquacolors Poreč

Aquapark Aquacolors Poreč is the largest Croatian water park situated near tourist resort Zelena Laguna in Poreč. Aquapark extends on over 100.000 m2 while on the daily bases it can welcome from 3000 up to 5000 visitors. Aquacolors was official open in May 2015 and it is considered as one of the most modern water parks in Europe, which offers plenty of amusement and adrenalin for all ages. This water kingdom will offer you the vacation of your dreams. In case you get hungry, there are all kinds of refreshments, which will satisfy every palate.

Main Driver: Accessibility and Social Well-being

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.198339- Longitude: 13.605891

**************************************************************************************************************** Chiavalon Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Istrian extra virgin olive oil Chiavalon is the most awarded extra virgin olive oil in Croatia and one of the world's best olive oils. Today there are 22 hectares of specialized olive grove with 6,100 trees. In the last harvest 250 quintals of olives were produced and 70 purchased, with a yield of about 38 hectolitres of oil.

Main Driver: Mediterranean Diet

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.958846- Longitude: 13.850492

**************************************************************************************************************** Babos Winery

Family Giacometti Moscarda won many prizes – to mentioned gold medalls - on contest and fairs – for wine, and for olive oil and grappa. The name BABOS is derived from the district where the winery is situated. From 2013 the family produces champagne, already accepted by the experts and wine lovers. Giacometti Moscarda are located on the Wine Roads of Istria; as well on Olive Oils Roads in Istria. The exhibition area of the Giacometti-Moscarda farm, opened in 2005, was created because of the need to promote in the best possible way the whole production of the winery, which counts today 7 important products with the Babos brand symbol.

Main Driver: Mediterranean Diet

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.95833- Longitude: 13.853416

**************************************************************************************************************** OPG Macan - Salvamana Olive Oil

OPG Macan is a producer of supreme quality product - Salvamana Extra Virgin Olive Oil coming from the region of Istria, city of Vodnjan - . Products are awarded for quality and innovative design which becomes recognizable brand in Vodnjan, Istria, Croatia and other Countries.

Main Driver: Mediterranean Diet

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.966422- Longitude: 13.847755

**************************************************************************************************************** Gracisce

One of the most remarkable particularities of Gračišće is its urban structure: the town, once surrounded by walls, is divided into districts of which every one has its own square with a church. The most representative is, of course, the town centre – the Plac, with the church dedicated to the Mother of God, the chapel of St. Anthony and the Salomon Palace. This part can be accessed through the West Gate with a Loggia erected in 1549. On the other side of the Gate the street splits left towards the Parish Church of Sts. Vitus, Modestus and Crescentia, and to the right towards the residential district around the square and the church of St. Pancras dating back into the 14th century. The street going along this church used to lead towards the south town gate. The town is visited by more and more visitors every day, not only for the Exhibition of the Wine of Central Istria, the St. Vitus Feast or the Festival of the Harmonica Zasopimo na organić.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.220108- Longitude: 14.008944

Paleo Park

Paleo Park grew out of the idea of creating a paleontological park, primarily meant to educate, amuse, prompt curiosity and desire to explore. Considering the close proximity of the paleontological site, nature set the theme for the park. The area around the pool represents a theme park featuring dinosaur replica models in different sizes and provides an educational walk to showcase the fascinating history of dinosaurs. The Paleo Park complex is located in the camping Mon Perin area along the coast of San Polo - Colona - Paravia. The complex spreads over an area of 16.199 sqm, blending in well with the surroundings without affecting the natural shape of the terrain. The complex consists of entrance/reception area, Jacuzzi, indoor restaurant, covered outdoor bar area, bathroom facilities, sunbathing area and a souvenir shop.

Main Driver: Accessibility and Social Well-being

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.016038- Longitude: 13.716406

**************************************************************************************************************** Euphrasian Basilica

Euphrasian Basilica is one of the best preserved Early Christian complexes. As one of the most significant world historical monuments it was put on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List in 1997. Its current appearance dates back to the 6th century, although its first Early Christian basilica was erected in the 4th century. In view of all church buildings being erected on a densely built area, remains of profane Roman architecture, most probably used for economic purposes, were found.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.22838- Longitude: 13.592357

**************************************************************************************************************** Palud

The Palud Bay, located eight km south-west of Rovinj, is the only ornithological park in Istria. Water from neighbouring hills and valleys as well as northern side springs turned this natural depression located in the vicinity of the sea into a swamp.

Main Driver: Accessibility and Social Well-being

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.028255- Longitude: 13.702142

Cava di Monfiorenzo

The Fantasia quarry, also known as Cava di Monfiorenzo, is located near Rovinj, and covers the surface of 4 hectares. It was declared a geological monument of nature in 1986 as a unique example of limestone deposits and one of the most important and most interesting quarries in the world. The rocks from the Cava di Monfiorenzo quarry are used in providing scientific explanations of the emergence of similar rocks in the world, which contain only some, but not all the evidence and indicators of such emergence type.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.082135- Longitude: 13.667515

**************************************************************************************************************** Monkodonja

Monkodonja is a Bronze Age settlement located on an elevation and surrounded by fertile plains all the way to the coastline, five kilometres east from Rovinj. Discovered and explored during the 1950s, it has represented the most comprehensive exploration of a Bronze Age settlement in this part of Europe since 1997. The settlement is located on the plateau, its shape is irregular and it is surrounded by three concentric walls.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.070664- Longitude: 13.697796

**************************************************************************************************************** Lorun

Lorun is an Antiquity archaeological site located next to the planned built tourist resort of Červar Porta. The remains of a Roman country villa, an estate consisting of the ceramics workshop, an oil

mill and a water cistern were found, while the oldest villa doors coincide with the year 46 BC, the time of the establishment of the Poreč colony under the Caesar.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.269473- Longitude: 13.592438

Nesactium

The archaeological site Nesactium is located on the Glavica hill near Valtura, east of Pula, above a fertile valley and the Budava Bay. Nesactium is thought to have been the seat of the Histri, a people of the Indo-European descent who were formed in the early Iron Age after the settlement of today's Istria peninsula. The oldest traces of the hill located settlement stem from the Bronze and Iron Ages. Glavica's steep hills provided good defence as the structure was encircled by several wall layers from the hill bottom. Some walls are of Roman descent.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.918246- Longitude: 13.971871

**************************************************************************************************************** The Church of St. Mary on Škriljinah

The Church of St. Mary on Škriljinah is a Gothic church with a portico, a bell gable and a wooden tabulate added. In the church interior there is the Dance of Death scene, one of the most well- known series of frescoes and, along with the Arena in Pula and Euphrasian Basilica, the most recognizable cultural monument of Istria.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.252368- Longitude: 13.899583

**************************************************************************************************************** Zerostrasse Pula

Below Pula is an underground tunnel world stretching almost across entire Pula, known as Zerostrasse. Pula's underground tunnels were erected during the WW1 to provide a shelter for

people in case of air raids. The underground tunnel system consisted of shelters, trenches, galleries and passages, as well as ammunition storages and communication passages. Each hill in the town's core was drilled and dug up, thus creating an extended tunnel network. The tunnels of Monte Zaro, Monte Ghiro and the Castel are the largest. The Castle, used as barracks, observatory, storage and prison during the Austro-Hungarian rule, hides two tunnel storages below its slopes. One is below the fortress itself, while the other was located in the foot of the hill. It is about 400 meters long, and it was used primarily for establishing the connection with the town centre. In its centre is the single area, a meeting point of underground tunnels with entrances from four different sides underneath the Castle. Entrances were carefully planned to provide a regular air flow, which temperature is between 14 and 18 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The width of the passage is between 3 and 6 metres, while its height is 2.5 meters. The underground tunnels below the Castle alone could take about 6000 people, while the capacity of all shelters in Pula was more than 50,000 people, the number almost equal to the number of town's inhabitants.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.86977- Longitude: 13.84544

**************************************************************************************************************** The Verudela Fortress

The Verudela Fortress is one of the best preserved fortresses. It is considered the peak of the 19th c. European fortification construction. When its control over Pula commenced, the Austro- Hungarian Monarchy decided to transform the town into the Monarchy's maritime centre, which meant the construction of not only numerous newly-built structures such as the arsenal, hospital or the Hydrographic Institute, but also its defensive system.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.835186- Longitude: 13.832678

**************************************************************************************************************** Punta Christo Fortress

The Punta Christo fortress, which is the biggest Austro-Hungarian fortress, was built in Štinjan, on the namesake Kristo peninsula. Erected in the late 19th century, it spread across more than ten thousand square meters and had as many as 270 rooms. The fortress had an excellent geographic position with a view of the entrance into the Pula Bay and the jetty from one, and of Muzil and the Brijuni islands from the other sea side. A trench was dug up around it, separating it, while the passage was possible only through one of the three entrances. The interior yards of the Punta

Christo fortress provide the access to its underground premises. The fortress was abandoned after the WW2. Having been neglected, abandoned and dilapidated for a number of years, it was finally cleared. Today it is used as a site for organizing concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.891839- Longitude: 13.797537

The Church of St. Foška

The Church of St. Foška is a three-nave basilica with three inscribed apses. Although it had been long considered an early medieval edifice, recent research has dated it back to the late 11th or the early 12 century. The mural paintings in St. Foška's Church from the first half of the 12th century were made by a superb author, most likely a master from northern . The preserved Benedictine paintings are most probably the most magnificent example of Romanesque mural painting in Croatia. However, the mural in St. Foška is not really a fresco as it was painted on dry plaster by tempera or semi-tempera. This medieval mural painting technique used colours, which along with limestone, contained te organic binder, most probably an egg. Fragments of the Mother of God with Christ in her lap surrounded by angels exist in the main apse, while a representative and monumental image of the Assumption is seen above the triumphal arch. The symmetrical composition was set right in the centre above the main apse and the altar with a frontal figure of Christ Enthroned set in gemstones and surrounded by the mandorla carried by four angels.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.984- Longitude: 13.778969

**************************************************************************************************************** The Church of St. Agatha

The Church of St. Agatha, the early Romanesque building with the interior semi-circular apse, although typologically related to the Pre-Romanesque building tradition could have been built later. Mural paintings are dated back to the second half of the 11th century due to their composition and technical characteristics. In the lower register of the centre of the apse is an image of the Virgin Mary in the praying position flanked by five Apostles on each side. Christ is represented as a young beardless man holding an unusual inscription : REX IUDEORUM. On the triumphal arch the customary scene of the Annunciation is replaced by the scene of the Cain and Abel's Offering. St. Agatha and St. Lucy are depicted in the fields under the triumphal arch.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.136774- Longitude: 13.845441

Vižula

Vižula near Medulin was inhabited from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages. The most significant is the Roman villa, elevated from the sea coast by terraces Vižula is an archaeological site near Medulin, confirmed to be populated from the Neolithic to the Early Middle Ages. Remains of a Neolithic settlement were found including wicker cottages glued together by soil and mud, as well as parts of the ceramics and some dishes. However, the most significant is the Roman villa, which has undergone systematic research, dating back to the 1st and the 2nd cc. It was found that the villa had been constructed in three phases until the 6th century. The structure was elevated from the sea coast by terraces, while its bottom part lies today sunk under the sea, giving only a glimpse of the pier remains. The villa was a residential country house for both noblemen and the Emperor. Its preserved architecture shows that the villa was facing the sea, with the floors partially decorated by mosaics.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 44.818868- Longitude: 13.921438

**************************************************************************************************************** The Kožljak Castle

The Kožljak castle was erected on the southern slopes of Mount Učka, on the steep cliff, along the old road connecting ancient Histria and Liburnia, the last in a sequence of feudal forts from Karst to eastern Istria along the steep hills of Učka. Erected on the site of the ancient Histrian structure, it was first mentioned in the written sources of 1102 as one of the castles given by Count Ulrich II Weimar-Orlamunde as a gift to the Patriarchy of Aquileia. It was mentioned first in the written source under the Croatian name Iosilach or Giosilach. Its Germanic name is Wachsenstein, Slavic Kožljak or Kožlak. Wachsenstein in Croatian means the cliff of rescue, the cliff in which we look for refuge, while the meaning of kožl(j)ak is a goat's peak.

Main Driver: Cultural & Traditional Heritage

Country: Croatia

Latitude: 45.12841- Longitude: 14.071132

QNeST Traditional Events: ______

Istra Inspirit

Months of Event: June July August September December

Istra Inspirit is a multi-awarded tourism project in Istria that enriches the cultural and tourist offer of the peninsula with the revival of historical events on authentic locations, through staged Istrian legends and myths. The Administrative Department for Tourism of the Region of Istria has promoted the development of the Istra Inspirit project since 2012 in cooperation with the Istrian Tourism Development Agency, IRTA and Istria Tourist Board. Istra Inspirit is an example of best practice of creative and innovative tourism and underlines the value of existing unused resources of cultural and historical heritage of the region and finds innovative ways of involving different stakeholders in the tourism industry in order to create tourist packages and new tourism products. Quality, originality, innovation and sustainability are the main characteristics that make this project distinctive and its ‘know-how’ recognizable, the aim of which is to be transferred to the stakeholders and create with them the story of the destination. Furthermore, the goal is to achieve the active networking of all the interested publics in the synergy of the creation of tourism destinations – family farm households, students, local communities, actors, artists and musicians, craftsmen and local tourist boards.

Main Driver: Cultural & traditional heritage

Town: , Pazin, Poreč, Novigrad, Vodnjan, Vrsar,Bale, Dvigrad, Brijuni, , Buzet, Rovinj, Savudrija, Svetvinečanat, Medulin,- Municipality: Istria

Latitude: 45.305803- Longitude: 13.913932

**************************************************************************************************************** Motovun Film Festival

Months of Event: July August

It is primarily dedicated to the films from small cinematographies and independent productions; films that excel with their innovative approach, ideas and intense stories; films that have a hard time fighting their way to theaters and wide audiences under the conditions of an unequal market competition. The idea behind our film program is to reflect diversity – esthetical, thematic, geographical… As many films from as many countries as possible, in order to show that the world of film is much wider and more colorful than it often seems. With its selection of films and guests of honor, the festival celebrates the authors sticking to their artistic stubbornness, unconventionality and originality at all costs. With films and direct communication between filmmakers and film lovers we want to create a cozy spot for those who enjoy the magic of cinema.

Main Driver: Cultural & traditional heritage

Town: Motovun- Municipality: County of Istria

Latitude: 45.336189- Longitude: 13.828372

**************************************************************************************************************** Ex Tempore

Months of Event: September

The Ex tempore exhibition has been organized by the Italian Union of , Italian Community of Groznjan, Public University of , Municipality of Groznjan and Groznjan's Tourist Office. Ex tempore is a cultural event that takes place every year during the last week of September, attracting artists and art lovers from around the world.

Main Driver: Cultural & traditional heritage

Town: Grožnjan- Municipality: County of Istria

Latitude: 45.378799- Longitude: 13.721517

**************************************************************************************************************** Croatia Open Umag

Months of Event: July

The rich history of the ATP tournament in Umag has been marked with amazing and often dramatic matches in which top international tennis players lost to far less experienced players. Many won their first titles in Umag, some abandoned matches due to injury or exhaustion, and the finals lasted from a speedy 61 minutes (Thiem and Sousa in 2015) to an exhausting 170 minutes (Verdasco and Andreev in 2008). Umag is known as a town of sports and recreation, and tennis is woven into this story in golden letters. It is a love that has lasted a few decades, one of those that brought Umag the title of European Town of Sport in 2018. The tournament is a great promotion for

Istria and Croatia with matches reaching audiences in as many as 100 countries worldwide. The Umag ATP tournament has won numerous awards, including the ATP Award of Excellence. However, the one that best describes the energy of the tournament is the Best Fan Experience award, which confirms exactly what many players and friends of the tournament are constantly emphasizing: its infectious enthusiasm and feel-good atmosphere.

Main Driver: Accessibility and social well-being tourism services

Town: Umag- Municipality: County of Istria

Latitude: 45.432792- Longitude: 13.522043

**************************************************************************************************************** Golden Lion

Months of Event: June

Spirit of the chamber theater in Umag was embodied through mr. Antonio Coslovich who has built a hotel called Al Leon d’oro – towards the golden lion in which he had a theatre with about 100 seats. Festival is taking action in the city theater in National open university “Ante Babić” which is located in the centre of Umag and because of its construction and location is allowing us to organize all of the following events that can be visited by a grand amount of visitors. Over the years festival has become a symbol of quality, not only in Umag but generally in Istra, it attracts more people and persons from public life and it attracts the media. Of course that all is supported by more quality contents, which is always carefully selected and representative festival program, it raises the level of festival.

Main Driver: Accessibility and social well-being tourism services

Town: Umag- Municipality: County of Istria

Latitude: 45.43219- Longitude: 13.52229

**************************************************************************************************************** Ulysses Theatre

Months of Event: January May June July August

Ulysses Theatre was founded by actor-director Rade Šerbedžija and writer Borislav Vujčić. It was inaugurated in 2001 by the renowned British film and stage actress at a charity concert featuring the Mostar Sinfonietta. The first production was Shakespeare’s King Lear, directed by Lenka Udovički, with Rade Šerbedžija in the eponymous role. A small production team lead by Tatjana Aćimović embarked upon the challenge of giving shape to a dreamlike idea of a theatre on an uninhabited island, unaware of the fact that this production would achieve cult status

among the audience and continue to be performed year after year, turning what started as an experiment into an annual summer festival with an increasing number of productions and cultural events. Ulysses intends to continue developing the way it did since its start: driven by the unstoppable passion for good theatre, music and with the aim of gathering talented artists from all over the World.

Main Driver: Cultural & traditional heritage

Town: National Park Brijuni- Municipality: County of Istria

Latitude: 44.913763- Longitude: 13.772639

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