Oh yes, Grožnjan. The first time we met was in April 2016, and since then, I’ve been talking about that beautiful and charming small town. I don’t know why; it’s probably the vibe and the architecture, of course!
I came during some sort of bike race, so I was a bit scared the streets would be full of bikers, but fortunately – they weren’t.
I like Grožnjan. I need to come back.
So, what does the internet say about Grožnjan?
Grožnjan, a small town in central Istria, Croatia, known as Grisignana in Italian, is a captivating destination situated about 7 kilometers southeast of Buje. Perched at an elevation of 288 meters, it overlooks the Mirna valley. As of 2021, Grožnjan had a population of 142, serving as the center of a municipality that encompasses several settlements.
Grožnjan is particularly renowned for its cultural vibrancy, often referred to as the “Town of Artists.” It boasts approximately twenty galleries and art studios and hosts an international summer film school. Additionally, it is the International Cultural Center for Croatian Music Youth. The town is famous for its annual jazz festival, “Jazz is Back BP,” initiated by Croatian jazz musician Boško Petrović, which attracts artists and enthusiasts for two to three weeks starting mid-July. The Ex tempore festival in late September is another significant event, drawing over 300 artists from across Europe.
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the NK Grožnjan – Oprtalj, a joint football club with the settlement of Oprtalj. Moreover, Grožnjan is the site of Croatia’s first enduro bike race, the Enduro Grozni Grožnjan, held since 2014. This mountain bike race is a part of the Croatian National Championship and SloEnduro cup.
The history of Grožnjan dates back to its first mention in 1102. The town has experienced various ownership changes over the centuries and has preserved parts of its medieval walls and a city gate from the 15th-16th century. Notable historical structures include the Renaissance loggia from 1587 and the podestà’s palace, refurbished in Baroque style in 1726.
The revitalization of Grožnjan began in 1965, led by sculptor Aleksandar Rukavina and other artists. Today, the town is home to 28 art studios and the Fonticus Town Gallery, which showcases contemporary art projects. The town also features a Heraldic Collection with over 150 reliefs of coats of arms.
The area around Grožnjan is ideal for hiking and biking. The municipality covers an area of 66 km² and had 656 residents as of 2021. It comprises smaller settlements and hamlets, each with its unique appeal.
The town’s coat of arms, a historical emblem displayed on the Fonticus building, features an Iberian-shaped shield with a blue field, a white lily held by a golden hand, and a white hill with a golden sun.
Grožnjan celebrates its municipal day on June 15th, honoring its parish protectors, Saints Vitus, Modestus, and Crescentia. With its rich blend of art, history, and stunning landscapes, Grožnjan is a must-visit destination for art lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike.