Višnjan

Višnjan, also known as Vissignanun, Vicinius, Guissignanus, or Visignano, derives its name from the Latin word "Vicinianus," meaning "nearby," due to its proximity to the possession of Poreč. In the area of the village of Strpačići, located 1 km from Višnjan, archaeologists have discovered artifacts such as copper earrings and needles from the Bronze Age. Illyrians settled in this area between 2000 and 1000 BC, followed by the Celts. Remains from this period can be found on the hill of Montenes, near Višnjan. The oldest written document mentioning the name Višnjan dates back to 1003 AD, in a document determining the boundaries of the possessions of St. Maurus, and over the centuries, it was under the rule of various rulers, including Venice.

Today, Višnjan represents an oasis of peace with authentic gastronomic experiences and a rich cultural heritage. Alongside agriculture and the service sector, the town is known for the Association of Breeders fighting to preserve the indigenous Istrian cattle - Boskarin, and for the unique phenomenon - the Baredine Cave. Legend associates this cave with a tale of unhappy love, and today it is a tourist attractive destination.

Višnjan is characterized by a rich cultural heritage and historical monuments, including the early Byzantine basilica of St. Agnes in Muntejana, the church of St. Michael in the Kolombera district, and the early Gothic church of St. Anthony the Abbot in Višnjan. However, what Višnjan is most famous for is the Višnjan Observatory, founded in 1976, which has become globally renowned for discovering small bodies of the solar system.

Višnjan, the city of stars and dreamers, offers an unforgettable experience, combining history, culture, nature, and the starry skies into a unique blend.