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Dvigrad Ruins: A Medieval Ghost Town

Explore the captivating Dvigrad ruins in Istria, a haunting medieval ghost town with well-preserved remains and a rich history.

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Explore the haunting ruins of Dvigrad, a medieval town abandoned in the 17th century due to disease and war. Wander through the remains of stone houses, defensive walls, and the prominent Church of St. Sophia, imagining life in this once-thriving Istrian settlement.

A brief summary to Dvigrad ruins

  • Kanfanar, HR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the uneven terrain within the ruins.
  • Visit during the off-season for a more solitary and mystical experience.
  • Bring water, especially during hot days, as there are limited facilities on-site.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Rovinj or other Istrian attractions.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The easiest way to reach Dvigrad is by car. From the A9 motorway (Pula-Slovenia), exit towards Kanfanar. Follow the signs for Dvigrad, a few kilometers north of Kanfanar. Free parking is available near the ruins.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Rovinj to Vodnjan, then a train from Vodnjan to Kanfanar. From the Kanfanar train station, it's approximately a 30-minute walk to Dvigrad. Bus and train tickets will cost approximately €1-€4.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Rovinj to Dvigrad is the fastest option, taking around 30 minutes and costing approximately €30-€40.

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Discover more about Dvigrad ruins

Dvigrad, meaning 'Two Towns,' is an abandoned medieval settlement in the heart of Istria, near Kanfanar, Croatia. The name refers to two towns, Moncastello and Castel Parentino, though only Moncastello's ruins remain today. Inhabited since prehistoric times, Dvigrad grew in importance under Roman rule and later Venetian control in the 15th century. At its peak, it was a significant political and cultural center. Constant battles, plague, malaria, and the Uskok War led to the town's decline, with most residents fleeing by the 17th century. The Church of St. Sophia, a basilica dating back to the 5th century with a 13th-century reconstruction, stands as a testament to Dvigrad's past. The town was never destroyed, but slowly abandoned. Declared a cultural heritage site in 1997, Dvigrad offers visitors a glimpse into medieval life. Explore the double defensive walls, three city gates, towers, and the remains of over 200 buildings. Wander through the old streets and imagine life in this once-bustling town, now a peaceful, eerie ruin.

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