Marčana

Marčana, Travel Guide with travel tips for holidays in Marčana, Croatia

Marčana is a small, remote village in the Istra peninsula. It is very wild and rustic and surrounded by undeveloped country. Marčana has been sparsely populated for over 3000 years, and so much of the natural wilderness in Marčana remains as it always has been. It has few roads and is not accessible by sea or air, making it a genuinely remote vacation spot. It's citizens are primarily concerned with farming and other form of agriculture. It's central structure is the church of St. Peter and Paul which was constructed in the 15th century.

Marčana has been continually occupied since prehistoric times but has never supported a large population. Artifacts indicating a significant indigenous population dating back to the Roman era have been recovered, however the name "Marčana" was not applied to this region until it came under the control of the Republic of Venice. In the 15th century, the local population was almost completely exterminated by the plague, and the area was not repopulated until the 17th century when refugees from other plague-ravaged areas moved into Marčana.

The art of Marčana is exemplified by it's two medieval churches, the Church of St. Peter and Paul and the Church of St. Anthony of Padova, both of which have famous bell towers and stained-glass windows. These churches are open to tourism as well as worship. Marčana is also home to the Mate Balota Memorial Collection, which may be viewed upon request. Marčana's nightlife is limited to a few small pubs and a pizzeria, which are filled with friendly locals and provide a quiet, relaxing evening.

Marčana's tourism focuses on the many wineries, olive groves, and undeveloped wilderness surrounding the area. Hiking and cycling are encouraged, and certain routes may have guides. Marčana is also known for it's many ancient houses and other aged pieces of architecture, some of which are open to visitation. There are a number of ancient gravesites and fortifications in the area, of all which are open to tourists. Marčana's remoteness and quietness make it ideal for vacationers who wish to get as far away from civilization as possible. Marčana also has a number of markets which offer locally grown produce and trinkets made by local artisans.

Marčana is accessible via the main Pula - Rijeka highway.