Motovun
Istarska županija
Motovun, known in Italian as Montona, is a picturesque medieval town situated on a steep hill in the western part of Istria County, Croatia. It is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in the region, with origins tracing back to prehistoric times when Illyrian and Celtic tribes established settlements here. The town's name derives from the Celtic word 'Montona,' meaning 'town in the forest.' Motovun is composed of three parts: the oldest upper town, the middle 'Podgrađe,' and the newer 'Gradiciol' descending the slope. The town is encircled by two rings of defensive walls, with the inner walls dating from the 13th and 14th centuries and the outer walls from the 15th century, which include the lapidarium. The central square, Andrea Antia Square, honors the Renaissance composer and music printer born in Motovun. Dominating the square is the Baroque Church of St. Stephen, built in 1614 on the site of an earlier church and a late antique early Christian basilica. Adjacent to the church is a 13th-century bell tower with battlements. Opposite the church stands the Communal Palace, originally constructed in the 12th century and expanded in the 16th and 17th centuries. Beneath the square lies a large cistern that historically supplied water to the town. Visitors can climb the 1,052 steps leading to the top of Motovun, the longest staircase in Croatia, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Istrian countryside. Motovun's medieval charm, historical architecture, and cultural heritage make it a unique and captivating destination in Croatia's Istrian peninsula.
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Tip: The best time to visit Motovun is during late spring through early autumn when the weather is pleasant and local festivals take place. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets for guided tours of the town's walls and historical sites in advance during peak seasons. The town is accessible by car or organized tours from nearby cities such as Pazin and Buzet. Walking shoes are recommended due to the steep terrain and numerous steps. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Exploring Motovun early in the morning or late afternoon can help avoid crowds and provide better lighting for photography.
Interesting facts
- •Motovun's name originates from the Celtic word 'Montona,' meaning 'town in the forest.'
- •The town features the longest staircase in Croatia with 1,052 steps leading to its summit.
- •Underneath the central square lies a large cistern that historically supplied water to the town.
- •The bell tower adjacent to St. Stephen's Church dates back to the 13th century and features battlements.
- •Motovun is composed of three distinct parts: the oldest upper town, Podgrađe, and Gradiciol descending the hill.
History
Motovun's history dates back to prehistoric times with Illyrian and Celtic tribes, specifically the Sekusi Celtic tribe, establishing early fortifications on the site.
The town developed as a medieval fortress atop a steep hill, with its first defensive walls constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries.
Throughout centuries, Motovun preserved its medieval character despite various regional changes in sovereignty within Istria.
The Renaissance period brought cultural development, exemplified by native son Andrea Antia.
The Baroque Church of St.
Stephen was built in 1614, replacing earlier religious structures, including a late antique basilica.
Over time, Motovun evolved but maintained its historic architecture and strategic hilltop location, surviving through Austro-Hungarian and Venetian influences to modern Croatian administration.
Place Guide
Inner City Walls and Gates13th-14th century
The inner ring of defensive walls surrounds the oldest part of Motovun, dating from the 13th and 14th centuries, featuring the original city gates that provide access to the medieval town core.
Outer City Walls and Lapidarium15th century
The outer ring of city walls, built in the 15th century, encloses the Podgrađe area and includes the outer city gates, which now house a lapidarium exhibiting stone monuments and artifacts.
Andrea Antia SquareRenaissance period, Baroque church built 1614
The central square of Motovun named after the Renaissance composer and music printer Andrea Antia, featuring a baroque church and historical communal buildings.
Church of St. Stephen1614 (church), 13th century (bell tower)
A Baroque church constructed in 1614 on the site of an earlier church and a late antique early Christian basilica, featuring a 13th-century bell tower with battlements.
Communal Palace12th century, expanded 16th-17th centuries
Historic building originally built in the 12th century and renovated in the 16th and 17th centuries, located opposite the church on the central square.
Motovun Staircase
A long staircase consisting of 1,052 steps that leads visitors from the base to the top of Motovun, offering panoramic views of Istria.
