Buzet, Croatia
Buzet is a picturesque town located in the heart of Istria, Croatia. Known as the "Town of Truffles", it is famous for its rich truffle-hunting tradition and local cuisine. The town sits atop a hill, offering stunning views of the Mirna River valley. Buzet's historic old town is filled with charming cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and small squares. Visitors can explore its vibrant cultural heritage, including the Church of St. George and the town walls. It’s also a great base for hiking and exploring Istria’s natural beauty.
Parking in Buzet
Essentially, there is one parking lot near the old town. There is also a second, larger parking lot located in the newer part of Buzet, and getting from it to the old town requires some effort (there is no direct path; you need to go around a bit).
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1. Parking on 1 Maja Street
GPS: 45.40545241, 13.966843470
Description: Not very large, but free parking. Very close to the old town (approximately 5 minutes).
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2. Mašimova škuja
GPS: 45.406355356, 13.964347420
Description: Large, free parking close to facilities such as various shops, a bakery, hotel – practically in the center of Buzet. To reach the old town, you need to reach the roundabout, cross the bridge over Riječka Street, and then head towards the stairs leading to the old town. You can also take a longer route along 1 Maja Street.
Sightseeing in Buzet
Let’s begin our journey in the heart of the old town, perched on a hill with a view of the Mirna River valley. Walking along the cobbled streets, we’ll notice the medieval charm surrounding us. Our first stop is Titov Trg (A; GPS: 45.40643847, 13.96903289). It is the central square of the old town. Its small size gives it an intimate character, and the surrounding buildings make the space feel enclosed.
Just a few steps from the square is Parish Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (B; GPS: 45.40619923, 13.968431814). This impressive baroque church dominates the town's panorama and provides insight into the city’s religious heritage. Let’s enter to admire the intricate altar and beautiful frescoes.
Continuing our walk, we’ll notice the city walls that have protected Buzet for centuries. From here, breathtaking views of the Mirna River valley and surrounding areas unfold. This is a perfect spot for taking a few photographs!
Our next stop is Lapidarium (C; GPS: 45.40686501, 13.96843972), which is part of the Regional Museum (Bigatto Palace). This museum offers an archaeological collection with lapidarium, ethnographic collection featuring traditional folk costumes, an old kitchen, and a collection of agricultural tools. The museum also hosts a gallery for various exhibitions. The Lapidarium in Buzet features stone monoliths from Roman, medieval, and early modern periods. The permanent exhibition includes architectural elements (parapets, lintels, window panels, coats of arms, etc.) as well as liturgical equipment (altar fragments, ciborium fragments, pilasters, capitals, etc.) dating from the 1st to 18th centuries.
In Buzet, truffles are highly valued and are an integral part of the local cuisine. It is worth visiting restaurants to taste unique truffle dishes and experience the atmosphere of this picturesque town. Here are two examples: Hotel Vela Vrata (D; GPS: 45.40595506, 13.967891767) and Stara Ostarija (E; GPS: 45.40646999, 13.968141881).
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