Walking through the ruins of Dvigrad felt like stepping into a forgotten world. Hidden in the Limska Draga valley, not far from Kanfanar, this medieval ghost town once held great importance but today stands as a haunting reminder of centuries gone by. Surrounded by thick walls and silence, it’s a place where history and imagination blend together.
The crumbling stone houses, defensive walls, and the remains of St. Sophia’s Basilica dominate the scene. For me, photographing Dvigrad was about more than just recording ruins — it was about capturing the atmosphere of a once-thriving community that was eventually abandoned, leaving behind a lot of preserved structures to explore.
Historically, Dvigrad was first mentioned in 879 and came under the control of various rulers, from the counts of Gorizia to the Venetians. The Venetians strengthened the town, but epidemics of plague and malaria in the late 15th century devastated its population. By the 17th century, most residents had moved to surrounding villages and eventually to Kanfanar, marking the end of Dvigrad as a living town. The Basilica of St. Sophia, originally built in the 5th century and later expanded, remains the focal point, with traces of frescoes and architectural elements that once made it one of the most impressive churches in Istria.
What makes Dvigrad especially fascinating are the legends tied to it. One tells of a monstrance that mysteriously moved from Dvigrad to Kanfanar, signaling the final transfer of the parish. Another story speaks of the pirate Henry Morgan, who is said to have sailed into the Lim Bay and hidden his treasure among the abandoned ruins of Dvigrad. Standing there with my camera, it wasn’t hard to imagine these tales unfolding centuries ago.
If you’re looking for a destination that combines photography, history, and a touch of mystery, Dvigrad is the perfect stop. You can find more of my photos from this remarkable site and other destinations across Croatia on the Explore page. For more daily snapshots and travel stories, follow me on Instagram at @croatia_captured.