Sunday 27 March 2016

Istria abecedary: G is for Glagoljica



The Glagolitic alphabet dates back to the 9th century, and is the oldest known Slavic alphabet. It was in use in Croatia from the 12th to the 20th century. Glagolitic inscriptions can be seen in several places in Istria. These stone tablets with Glagolitic characters in the image above are found in Hum's town gate. 

Friday 18 March 2016

Istria abecedary: F is for Freske



Freske (frescoes) can be seen in many Gothic churches across Istria. Some are better preserved than others, but they are all genuine mural paintings that date back to the medieval period. Here in the village, we have examples of such frescoes just a few steps away from our house, in the 15th century church, St. Mary on the Square (Sveta Marija na placu). Frescoes cover the apse of the small church and the wall behind the altar, which is painted with a scene of the Adoration of the Magi (see images above and below). 



























F is also for Fuži

This is a type of fresh pasta typical to Istria. It's always prepared for special occasions, and you can find it on any restaurant menu. It's often served with a type of ragu sauce, or with fresh asparagus when it's in season. Traditionally, fuži are always handmade, but today you can buy it at the supermarket.



Monday 7 March 2016

Istria abecedary: E is for Eufemija

The church of St Euphemia dominates Rovinj's skyline (photo credit: Istria Tourist Board)























Eufemija (Euphemia) is the name of a popular saint after whom many churches are named in Istria. St Euphemia is the patron saint of Rovinj, and the city's 18th century church is named after her. 

We also have a church dedicated to St Euphemia here in Gračišće – it's one of the village's seven original churches (six remain today) and perhaps the oldest, dating back to 1383. 


The church of St Euphemia in Gračišće 

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