Završje: Istria’s Hilltop Ghost Town
Nestled high on a hilltop that makes you feel like you’re on top of the world (or at least on top of the Mirna River valley), Završje is Istria’s hidden gem, often dubbed Piemonte d’Istria by its Italian pals. This charming village isn’t just another pretty face in the Istrian countryside; it’s a treasure trove of history, legends, and—wait for it—an architectural leaning tower that could give Pisa a run for its money! Završje Istria's hilltop ghost town
Imagine strolling through the cobblestone streets where every turn brings you face-to-face with medieval buildings that look like they’ve jumped straight out of a fairytale. With its ivy-covered stone walls, it’s easy to see why this town has been a star in the European filming scene, serving as the backdrop for the birthplace of Robin Hood in 2017.
And here’s the kicker: Završje is like that secret spot everyone wishes they knew about, free from the hustle and bustle of overrun tourist traps. There are no selfie sticks or souvenir shops hawking T-shirts with cheeky slogans—just a tranquil atmosphere that lets you soak in the beauty of the place without any distractions.
A Historical Stroll Through Time
Once a prehistoric hillfort, Završje has been inhabited since ancient times, long before anyone thought of putting it on a travel brochure. It made its grand debut in the 11th century, and things got pretty exciting in the 16th century when the Venetian Giustignano Contarini family bought it at an auction. Who needs a lottery win when you can snag an entire village, right? For the next three centuries, they ruled this charming hillside.
The village was once protected by a double ring of walls, which, like your favorite pair of jeans, have seen better days but still hold some character. Only the southern gate is still standing, proudly flaunting its vintage vibe. But watch your step—locals have been known to use this tiny entrance as a driveway!
During the Austrian rule, the construction of the Parenzana narrow-gauge railway brought some much-needed excitement. Završje bloomed with new schools, post offices, and even an oil mill! After World War II, though, the village faced a bit of a population crisis, with many residents packing their bags for Trieste. From a bustling 90 families, Završje now boasts just 40 permanent residents. Talk about a cozy neighborhood!
What’s on the Tour Menu?
Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Holy Rosary: Built in the 16th century, this chapel is home to a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary and an altar that was once so valuable it made its way to the Louvre. Yep, it’s a celebrity!
Leaning Tower: Standing at 22 meters tall, this Romanesque bell tower leans 40 cm to the north. Move over, Leaning Tower of Pisa—Završje’s got its own wobbly charm!
The Castle: This 11th-century castle was once home to the noble Contarini family, and it still stands as a reminder that castles are cooler than any modern apartment.
Wall Remnants and Town Gates: The remaining bits of the double walls give you a glimpse into the village's storied past. The Romanesque southern gate is like a postcard from history, with a crest and a relief of Ariadne and Bacchus still hanging around after all these years.
Parish Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Built in 1792, this church is a time capsule of art, with altarpieces and a dome ceiling that would make any architect weep with joy.
Frescoes in Čirkoti: Just a short jaunt away, the Church of St. Primus and Felician is decked out with stunning frescoes from the 13th and 14th centuries. Talk about a place where art truly comes alive! Završje: Istria’s Hilltop Ghost Town
Parenzana Trail: Once a railway line, it’s now the hottest cycling trail in Istria, complete with stunning views and tunnels. Grab your bike and enjoy a ride that might just make you feel like a character in an action movie!
Old School of Završje: This former school is now the Multi-purpose Cultural Centre and Museum of Folk Instruments. Nothing says “I love history” like a good old-fashioned museum visit!
So, whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys exploring charming ghost towns, Završje is the place to be! With whispers of future investments from the EU, who knows what’s in store for this enchanting hillside village? Will it keep its magical allure, or will modernization sweep in like an overzealous fairy godmother? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—Završje is a fairytale waiting to be explored!
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