Istria is filled with picturesque hilltop towns, but Boljun stands out as one of those places that feels almost forgotten by time. Tucked away in northeastern Istria, in the municipality of Lupoglav, this small settlement has a rich past that dates back to medieval times, yet it still manages to surprise visitors with its quiet charm and sweeping views over the Boljunčica valley and the Učka mountain range.
Walking through Boljun today, I found myself surrounded by layers of history. The medieval castle, once a stronghold that defended the area during turbulent centuries, still dominates the settlement. The remains of old churches, like the Church of St. Cosmas and Damian from the 12th century and the parish church of St. George with its Glagolitic inscriptions, reveal just how important this place was centuries ago. Even the old communal table, carved with markings for traditional games, speaks of a time when Boljun had its own judges, laws, and a vibrant community life.
During its peak from the 15th to the 17th century, Boljun was more than a quiet hilltop village — it was a center of Glagolitic literacy, with inscriptions carved into stone and preserved in church walls. The town had its own governance, and documents from that period show how active the community was. While many other Istrian towns grew in prominence, Boljun slowly lost its importance, but unlike some places that fell into ruin, it has remained beautifully preserved, offering a rare glimpse into Istria’s past.
For me, Boljun is the kind of place where photography comes naturally. Every corner tells a story: from the ruins of old houses and communal buildings to the panoramic viewpoints overlooking the valley. It’s easy to imagine the people who once lived here, guarding their borders, writing in Glagolitic script, or simply gathering at the stone table to play a game after a day of work.
If you ever find yourself exploring Istria, I highly recommend making the detour to Boljun. It’s quieter and less visited than the well-known towns like Motovun or Grožnjan, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. You can see more photos from Boljun and many other destinations across Croatia on the Explore page. For daily photography updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my travels, follow along on Instagram at @croatia_captured.