Tucked in Istria’s northern territory, standing on a hill with stunning views all around, you’ll find the quaint town of Buzet. Often referred to as the “City of Truffles", Buzet bolsters a vast past, enthralling medieval structure, and a profound bond with the area’s gastronomic legacy.
No matter, if you’re keen on history, a foodie, or just after a serene getaway, Old Town Buzet presents a refreshing alternative to Croatia’s more congested locales.
The truffle capital of Croatia
Buzet bears the title of “The City of Truffles. " It has earned this name due to a generous spread of these prized mushrooms in local forests. The rare white truffle (Tuber Magnatum Pico), known for its distinctive aroma, flourishes in the area. This fact makes Buzet a prime location for truffle seekers and gastronomes alike.
In the fall, Subotina, a festival celebrating truffles fills the town. Visitors can participate in truffle-hunting trips, get a glimpse of traditional cooking methods, and taste dishes heavily infused with truffles. Truffle seeking in Buzet offers an experience one can’t forget, giving a view of trained dogs sniffing out the hidden culinary treasure.
In Buzet, tasting truffle-centered dishes is essential. The town’s restaurants dish out meals that blend truffles with customary Istrian dishes. From truffle pasta and risotto to cheese and olive oil carrying a hint of this sought-after “black gold," there’s a great deal to enjoy.
10 must-see historical sights of Old Town Buzet
The roads and spaces of Buzet present a rich gallery of structural and cultural points of interest. Each provides an intro to the town’s vibrant history. These are some locations in Old Town Buzet you should make sure to see.
1. St. Vid’s Chapel
Located just beneath the fortress in the town’s cemetery, St. Vid’s Chapel dates back to the Middle Ages. It features a relief of St. Vid and the coat of arms of Captain Marc’ Antonio Erizza. The bell tower, dating from the 15th or 16th century, is a defining feature, with inscriptions from the years 1614 and 1653.
2. Vela Vrata (Large Gate)
Vela Vrata, built by Captain Giannmaria Contarini in 1547, serves as one of the grand entrances to the old town. A striking relief of St. George adorns the gate, adding to its historical significance.
3. South Bulwark
The South Bulwark, built in the 16th century, underwent repairs in 1699, supervised by Captain Andrea Erizzo. Remembered by his crest, still visible on the fortress today.
4. Lapidarium
The open-air Lapidarium displays plaques engraved with historical texts and crests. With the town’s ancient well at its heart, it captivates those engrossed by history.
5. Parish Palace
Erected on the remains of a 16th-century stronghold, the Parish Palace became home to the Flego family in the 1700s. It stands today as a testament to Buzet’s noble heritage.
6. Bembo Palace
The Bembo Palace, constructed in 1728, proudly displays the coat of arms of Captain Vicenzo Bamba. This elegant structure is a fine example of Buzet’s noble heritage.
7. Renaissance Tower
The Renaissance Tower forms part of the old fortress, a sturdy remnant of Buzet’s medieval fortifications.
8. Portal
Built in 1670, the Portal is a charming architectural feature that gives insight into the town’s craftsmanship of the period.
9. De Vertiis Palace
Dating back to 1629, De Vertiis Palace is marked by the coat of arms of a local nobleman, as well as an inscription that hints at its prestigious past.
10. Blessed Virgin Mary’s Parish Church
Completed in 1784, the Parish Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary holds a wealth of valuable objects and artwork, including Gaetano Callido’s famous organ from 1787.
A place to unwind
Buzet may not be as famed as some other Istrian spots like Rovinj or Pula, but that’s its draw. Here, time slows down.
The peace of the Old Town and the natural appeal of the environment make Buzet an ideal stop for those wishing to get away from the noise and crowds of popular tourist locations.
Whether you enjoy a quiet glass of wine, appreciate old architecture or venture into nearby woods on a truffle hunt, Buzet offers an experience rich in both history and taste.Thus, if a trip to Istria is on your bucket list, don’t forget Buzet’s Old Town.