Villa Terra Nera

Welcome to Sveti Petar u Šumi

Nestled in the heart of Istria, Sveti Petar u Šumi is a picturesque village known for its serene atmosphere. Located just a short drive from Pazin, the village is an ideal destination for visitors seeking to experience the authentic Istrian inland life.

Historical Center

Sveti Petar u Šumi takes its name from its most prominent landmark, the Benedictine and later Pauline Monastery of Saint Peter. This impressive complex, dating back to the 12th century, is a testament to the village's deep historical and spiritual roots. The baroque church within the monastery features ornate altars, intricate carvings, and beautiful frescoes, making it a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.

Cultural Heritage

The village is proud of its cultural heritage, reflected in its traditional Istrian stone houses and narrow streets. The local community celebrates this heritage with annual festivals and events, such as the popular "Sausage Festival" (Festival kobasica), which highlights Istrian culinary traditions. Visitors can enjoy tastings of local delicacies, including local sausages, cheeses, and wines.

Nature

Surrounded by lush greenery, Sveti Petar u Šumi is a haven for nature lovers. The rolling hills and fertile fields create a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. The nearby Draga Nature Park offers scenic trails where visitors can explore the region's diverse flora and fauna.

Activities and Experiences

Sveti Petar u Šumi provides visitors with a range of activities to connect with the local culture and landscape:

• Culinary Experiences: Discover the flavors of Istria through guided tours of local farms, where you can sample olive oil, wine, and other regional specialties.

• Walks: Stroll through the village to admire its well-preserved architecture and learn about its rich history.

• Workshops: Participate in workshops on traditional crafts, such  sausage preparation, led by local artisans.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

The peaceful setting of Sveti Petar u Šumi makes it an excellent destination for families. The village's friendly locals, safe environment, and open spaces provide a welcoming atmosphere for travelers of all ages.

Sveti Petar u Šumi may not have the coastal allure of Istrian seaside towns, but its charm lies in its tranquility, authenticity, and strong connection to Istrian traditions. Whether you're exploring its historical sites, indulging in local cuisine, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, Sveti Petar u Šumi offers a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.

Welcome to Istria! To ensure a safe and pleasant stay, here’s a quick guide to essential services and emergency contacts.

Emergency phone numbers

• 112 – General Emergency Assistance (24/7, multilingual)
• 192 – Police
• 193 – Fire Department
• 194 – Ambulance

Lost or Stolen Documents

If you lose your documents or suspect theft, notify the local police department. If navigating the town’s charming streets leaves you disoriented, online maps can help you locate the nearest police station.

Embassy and Consular Services

Most embassies in Croatia are in Zagreb, and some of them are also closer to Istria region. Here are a few embasies in Croatia and consulates closest to the Istrian region:

• Austria - Consulate of the Republic of Austria to the Republic of Croatia, Rijeka. e-mail: konzulat.republike.austrije@ri.t-com.hr, phone: +385 51 338 554
• Czech Republic - Embassy of the Czech Republic to the Republic of Croatia, email: zagreb@embassy.mzv.cz, phone: +385 1 617 72-46
• Denmark - Embassy of the Kingdom of Denmark to the Republic of Croatia, e-mail: zagamb@um.dk, phone: +385 1 49 24 530
• Germany – Consulate of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Republic of Croatia Pula, e-mail pula@hk-diplo.de, phone: +385 52 520 240
• Hungary - Embassy of Hungary to the Republic of Croatia, Zagreb, e-mail: mission.zgb@mfa.gov.hu, phone: +385 1 48 90 900
• Italy – Consulate General of Italy in Rijeka: Assistance for Italian nationals and other consular services. e-mail: cons.fiume@esteri.it, phone +38551355201
• Poland - Embassy of the Republic of Poland to the Republic of Croatia, e-mail: hrzagamb@msz.gov.pl, phone: +385 1 48 99 444
• Slovakia - Embassy of the Slovak Republic to the Republic of Croatia, e-mail: emb.zagreb@mzv.sk, phone: +385 1 48 77 070
• Slovenia - Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia to the Republic of Croatia, e-mail: consular.zagreb@gov.si, phone: +385 1 631 10 00
• Switzerland - Embassy of the Swiss Confederation to the Republic of Croatia, e-mail: zagreb@eda.admin.ch, phone: +385 1 48 78 800

For a comprehensive list of diplomatic missions in Croatia, visit Embassy Worldwide.

Hospitals and Pharmacies

For medical emergencies, head to:

• General Hospital Pula (Opća bolnica Pula) – The main hospital in the Istrian region, located about 40 km from Rovinj.
• Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka (Klinički bolnički centar Rijeka) – A large hospital in Rijeka, providing advanced care and specialized medical treatments.

Both facilities have 24/7 emergency departments. For non-urgent medical needs, pharmacies (Ljekarne) are widely available across Istria.

Roadside Assistance

If your vehicle breaks down or you encounter a road issue, contact HAK (Croatian Automobile Club) at 1987 .

How to Move Around

Istria is filled with countless transportation ways that let you discover its quaint towns, striking countryside, and picturesque coastlines:

• Buses: You'll find intercity buses linking significant locations like Rovinj, Poreč, and Umag. Buses in Istria are both cheap and dependable, making them a favored option for intra-city travel.
• Car rentals: If you're keen on sniffing out the rural beauty of Istria, trailing through vineyards or visiting hilltop hamlets like Motovun and Grožnjan, renting a car is your best bet. The roads are well-kept and distances manageable.
• Cycling: Istria is a heaven for cyclists! Witness lovely landscapes and age-old sites on marked trails such as the Parenzana route.
• Taxis and ride-sharing apps: Taxis are in larger towns while ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt service certain regions ensuring an easy commute.
• Walking: Breathe in the simplicity and cultural richness of compact areas particularly within Rovinj  and Poreč – best viewed at a walker's pace.

Useful Tips

• Currency: Croatia uses the Euro (EUR).
• Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn are ideal for enjoying Istria’s charm without peak-season crowds.
• Tap water: Safe and drinkable! Feel free to refill your bottle.
• Tipping: While not mandatory, a 5-10% tip or rounding up the bill is appreciated.
• Quiet hours: From 10 pm to 6 am, Istria follows a tranquility rule. Please respect the peace.