DVIGRAD
Dvigrad, a medieval town-castle, was first mentioned in 879 when the Patriarch of Aquileia took power. However, its origins date back to prehistoric times, as a hill-fort within the Roman province.
Dvigrad's early history dates back to prehistory. It was first mentioned in 879 under the rule of the Patriarch of Aquileia. The city's name hints at its dual origins, as it was once composed of two distinct settlements: Moncastella and Castel Parentino. However, Castel Parentino was abandoned in the 10th century, leaving us with the ruins of Moncastello today.
Dvigrad, a medieval town-castle, was first mentioned in 879 when the Patriarch of Aquileia took power.
Dvigrad's fortunes took a turn for the worse when it came under the control of the Counts of Gorizia. Soon after, the Genoese, engaged in a conflict with Venice, attacked and destroyed the city. This war, which largely affected Istria, claimed numerous lives and devastated numerous settlements. Castel Parentino was likely abandoned during this time, leaving only Moncastello for restoration.
After a period of relative peace, the second half of the 16th century witnessed a series of conflicts between Venice and Austria. Plague and malaria outbreaks compounded the misery, prompting the population to abandon Dvigrad in 1630. Most inhabitants relocated to Kanfanar, while only a handful of families remained in the deserted city. By 1650, the bishop in Dvigrad blessed only three families, and two decades later, the Church of St. Sophia was abandoned, signaling the city's complete surrender to decay.
Presently, the remains of Dvigrad showcase a well-preserved medieval town-castle.
Today, the ruins of Dvigrad stand as a testament to its medieval past. The well-preserved fortified town is surrounded by double walls linked by three city gates and several defensive towers. The Church of St. Sophia, situated atop the highest point, has retained its original location since early Christian times. It boasts a three-nave structure, completed in the 13th century. The main town square, adorned with the city palace, lies before this imposing landmark. The western section of the city housed military barracks, while the southwestern area accommodated craftsmen. The remaining space was occupied by dwellings for ordinary residents.
Must See:
The Church of St. Sophia,
situated at the highest point of the city, dominates the area. This church, which dates back to early Christian times, acquired its current three-nave shape during the 13th century. Adjacent to it is the main town square, where the city palace is located.
There are countless ruins of towers, castles and forts, but there is only one Dvigrad – it hadn’t been torn down neither by a military force, nor by the fire, yet, it was abandoned and left in his own doom. It stands as a reminder to passengers and an acquisition to visitors of how an old Istrian medieval town was built back then.