When visiting Istria, we must not miss the picturesque little town of Hum, which proudly holds the title of the smallest town in the world, as recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records. According to legend, it was built by giants who had some stones left over after founding several other towns on the surrounding hills.

We are leaving earlier to arrive around 9:30, making it easier to find a parking spot and, most importantly, to avoid the crowds of tourists. You can park right at the edge of town, near the cemetery.

The ancient town is protected by 100-meter-long town walls built by the Venetians. Our first steps lead to the entrance gate (Brama), aptly decorated with the inscription, "If you come with good intentions, you are welcome here." This architectural gem from the 16th century is adorned with twelve medallions symbolizing the months of the year and their typical agricultural work.

Beyond the gate, we are greeted by a perfect scenery of stone houses and narrow alleyways. We are also visiting the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Crkva Uznesenja Marijina), built in the 19th century, which proudly stands in a small square. Next to it rises a separate bell tower from the 16th century, which once served as a defensive tower.

Now we are heading through medieval alleyways to explore this tiny town. It is impossible to get lost here, as the houses, which wind along the edges of the twisting paths, stand in just three rows.

We stop at the souvenir shop and café Suvenira Biska. Then, we walk through the shop to the other side of the town to enjoy, at least for a moment, the enchanting view of the Mirna River valley.

We are heading back via the Suvenira Biska café and entering the traditional family-owned distillery shop Aura, which offers an endless variety of alcoholic beverages—from brandies to liqueurs—so both men and women will find something to their liking.

Free tastings are, of course, available, so we are setting out to discover new flavours and aromas. The traditional drink here is rakija with mistletoe, known as Biska, but we are also sampling honey and cherry varieties, among others. Biska, once used as a medicine, is based on an ancient Celtic recipe. The shop also offers other regional specialties, such as marmalades, truffle products and olive oil.

If you are a fan of spirits, make sure to visit Hum on the last Sunday of October, when the town traditionally hosts the Brandy Festival.

Address: Hum 8

Strengthened by a wonderful tasting, we are heading to the most valuable local landmark—the Romanesque Church of Saint Jerome (Crkva sv. Jeronima), located in the town cemetery. The interior of this sacred building is adorned with precious Byzantine frescoes from the 12th century. The unique atmosphere created by the interior is truly worth it.

 

Our tip:

However, the parish church is not usually open to the public, and that is where our secret tip comes in. The one and only key to the church can be borrowed at the Suvenira Biska shop.

 

 

And where to satisfy your hunger in style?

If you want to enjoy not only traditional Istrian specialties but also a stunning view of the surrounding landscape, head to the local restaurant Humska Konoba.

Address: Hum 2