Mošćenička Draga – the coastal medieval tourist resort in Istria
The territory of Mošćenička Draga is located where the lush green rolling hills of the Istrian peninsula fall into the deep blue sea. The area will leave you with some of the most awe-inspiring memories that one could ever imagine.
The rich and colorful history of Mošćenička Draga has made it what it is today, but the natural beauty that surrounds the town is the reason it existed in the first place.
Mošćenička Draga and the sea
Since the prehistoric times, Mošćenička Draga has been home to one civilization or another. Many old forts and villages can be seen rising up upon the hills and dotting the shoreline in all directions. The most popular of all those who called the area home was that of the Liburni who were some of the most skilled seafarers of the time. They stood up and fought against the incoming Roman Empire, often attacking and plundering every ship they could until they were finally overpowered by the vastness of the Roman fleet. However, the Romans were so impressed by the ships that they added them to their fleet and used them regularly in battle.
The Croats arrived in the area during the 7th century and in the 12th century the Franks came and took control over most of Istria. During the rule of the Franks, many advancements were made in Mošćenička Draga and today there are a number of churches and other structures from the era still standing. Unlike the vast majority of the Istrian peninsula, Mošćenička Draga stayed in the feudal system until the arrival of the Jesuits in the 17th century.
For those who visit Mošćenička Draga, there are many sites of antiquity to see. There is a castle and a number of churches which can be dated back to the 16th century. There are also the ruins of a 16th century abbey nearby. There are a multitude of carnivals, fairs and other popular events in Mošćenička Draga every single year which attracts visitors from all over the world.
