Žminj

Žminj ( _it. Gimino), a municipality in the central part of Istria (Croatia), 15 km south of Pazin; elevation 355 m; population 3.447. It was first mentioned in 1177 as a parish of the Poreč diocese.

The town is located on a limestone hill between the Lim valley and the Raša valley. Its economy is based on farming and livestock breeding. Žminj is located at the intersection of regional roads to Pazin, Kanfanar, Sveti Vincenat and Labin. This unique part of Istria has a number of attractions - beautiful landscapes and remnants of cultural heritage from all ages (such as a tower Citadel in the old town).

Exquisite specialities of Istrian cuisine: "manestra", sausages with cabbage, venison with gnocchi, "fuzi" (a kind of pasta), "supa" (crisp bread in red wine, with olive-oil and pepper) and the famous wines, teran and malmsey.

Žminj and its surroundings offer excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling tours, as well as for agritourism, which started to develop in many of the surrounding villages. Žminj is the traditional host of one of the most popular folk festivities in Istria, the so-called Bartulja (at the end of August), dedicated to St. Bartholomew, patron of Žminj (in the church of St. Bartholomew).

Other traditional events are the Chakavian Assembly, a contest of young poets and reciters of poetry in the Chakavian dialect (in June) and the Harmonica Wedding, a competition in accordion-playing (in July).

Žminj is also known for its agricultural fair which takes place every second Wednesday in the month.

External links

* [http://www.zminj.hr/ Official website]