After a long road trip at the end of August, it’s been two months since I last went on any trips to take photos for the Croatia Captured project. I knew I wouldn’t be able to do another long road trip until 2025, so I wrote down a few ideas for one- or two-day road trips to take before the end of 2024. The first of these was this one.
The plan was to visit a few places in Kvarner (specifically, the east side of the Istrian peninsula) and a few places within Istria itself.
The day started at 4 am, and I left Zagreb before 6 am. The weather wasn’t as I had hoped for, but at least it wasn’t raining. Fun fact: when I set off back to Zagreb, the clouds disappeared, and the sun was shining. Yes, fun times.
During the trip, I visited Lovran, Mošćenice (first visited in 2016), Brseč, Old Town Plomin, Old Town Kršan, and Old Town Labin. I had a few more places on the list, but this road trip was too much for one day, and I was too tired, so I set off for Zagreb after Labin.
Now, let’s see what the internet has to say about the fourth location of that day – Plomin.
Perched on a hill 168 meters above the Plomin Bay, the ancient town of Plomin is one of the oldest settlements in Istria. Known as Phlanona in Roman times and Fianona in Italian, Plomin is surrounded by medieval walls from the 13th and 14th centuries, with additional Renaissance fortifications added in the 16th and 17th centuries. The town’s strategic location offers stunning views of the Kvarner Bay, Cres Island, and the Istrian mainland.
A Rich Historical Legacy
Plomin’s origins date back to prehistoric times, with evidence of settlement as early as the 2nd millennium BC. The Illyrian tribe of Liburni dominated the area during the 1st millennium BC. When the Romans arrived, they transformed Plomin into an important trading center and port. It became the westernmost point of the Roman province of Dalmatia, serving as a key outpost for maritime trade and defense.
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Plomin passed through the hands of several rulers, including the Eastern Goths, Byzantines, Lombards, and Franks. Under Venetian rule, it became a vital fortress on the eastern coast of Istria, although it suffered heavily during conflicts between Venice and Austria in the 16th and 17th centuries.
During the interwar period, Plomin was part of fascist Italy and was nearly abandoned by the end of World War II. Despite its small population today, with only around 100 residents, Plomin’s historical significance and proximity to natural attractions make it a growing tourist destination.
Architectural and Cultural Highlights
Plomin’s medieval charm is preserved in its narrow streets, stone houses, and city gates, which have withstood centuries of history. The Parish Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, built in the 15th century, houses remarkable artifacts such as a Gothic crucifix, frescoes, and an altar dating back to the 17th century. One of the church’s most notable features is a fresco of the Madonna as the “Nourisher” and carved wooden statues of St. Anthony the Hermit and the Virgin Mary with Child.
A short walk from the town’s main square, the La Tura communal palace stands as a remnant of Plomin’s historic governance. The town’s network of small, winding streets and stone buildings gives the impression that the structures rise organically from the surrounding rocks, creating an atmosphere steeped in history.
The Iconic Church of St. George
One of Plomin’s most famous landmarks is the Church of St. George, built in the 11th century and known for its 15-meter Romanesque bell tower. The church’s exterior features the Plomin Tablet, a stone relief from the 11th century depicting the Illyro-Roman god Silvanus, the protector of nature. The tablet also bears one of the oldest Glagolitic inscriptions ever discovered, predating other significant Croatian historical artifacts like the Baška Tablet. The church is also home to a 13th-century crucifix and has long been a site of worship for Plomin’s sailors, who would offer prayers for safe voyages and prosperity.
A Haven for History and Nature
Despite its small size, Plomin offers a rich tapestry of historical and cultural experiences. The town’s Romanesque and Baroque palaces, narrow streets, and panoramic views make it a unique destination. Visitors can also explore the Plomin Gorge and surrounding hills, which offer numerous opportunities for hiking and exploring nature.
Whether you’re drawn by its ancient roots or its breathtaking views of the Adriatic, Plomin is a town that invites visitors to step back in time while enjoying the beauty of the Istrian landscape.