Hum – A town that fits in the palm of your hand, but stays in your heart
Nestled in the heart of Istria, surrounded by rolling hills and lush deciduous forests, lies Hum -the smallest town in the world. Though tiny in size, Hum leaves a lasting impression with its peaceful atmosphere and authentic charm. Located near Buzet, known as the “town of truffles,” Hum is renowned for its preserved medieval walls, cobbled streets, and rows of stone houses, each with its own story to tell. Whether you plan your visit or discover it by chance while exploring the region from one of the many villas with a pool in Istria, Hum is a cultural gem that’s well worth a stop.
The Legend of Hum’s Origins
According to an old Istrian legend, Hum was created by giants who once roamed the Mirna River valley. These mythical beings built towns atop the surrounding hills—Motovun, Roc, Groznjan, and Sovinjak—using massive stones. When their grand work was nearly finished, a few stones were left over. Not wanting them to go to waste, the giants used them to build Hum. Though the gentle giants have long vanished, their legacy lives on in the very soul of this tiny, remarkably preserved town. As you wander through Hum’s cobbled streets, it feels as if echoes of that distant mythical past still linger in the air—where every stone whispers a legend of its own.
History written in stone
Today, Hum is a small town with around 50 residents, and it was first mentioned in 1102 under the name "Castrum Cholm". What makes Hum truly unique is that the entire town developed within its original defensive walls, built to protect it from Turkish and Venetian invasions. Throughout history, Hum served as a significant medieval military stronghold. Its western fortress became the heart of daily life and a refuge for locals during times of conflict. The town took on its current form in the early 19th century, with one of its most striking landmarks being the Parish Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, built in 1802. The compact town layout includes three rows of stone houses and two narrow, parallel streets that lead to the main square and the historic city gates. Entirely enclosed by well-preserved walls, Hum is one of the few remaining examples of untouched medieval urban planning—a true cultural monument frozen in time.
Hum today
Today, Hum is remarkable not only for its size but also for the sense of authenticity it offers. On the town’s feast day, the city gates are ceremonially opened, bearing inscriptions in the ancient Glagolitic script. In a tradition dating back centuries, 11 parish members carve their votes onto a wooden stick to elect a new village leader—a unique custom that has been preserved only in Hum.
The town is especially well-known for its autumn rakija festival, celebrating this traditional brandy. Hum is particularly famous for biska, a mistletoe-based rakija believed to have originated right here. During the event, visitors can sample a wide variety of rakijas and liqueurs, enjoy homemade food and live music performances.
Hum is the perfect destination for a short getaway from the comfort of your villa with a pool. Wander through its charming streets, enjoy lunch at a local tavern, and savor traditional dishes served in a warm, authentic atmosphere. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll to a gallery or souvenir shop to find a special keepsake of your time spent in the world’s smallest town.
You can continue your exploration along the Glagolitic Alley—a 7 km-long promenade connecting the towns Hum and Roc where you can enjoy the lush greenery and discover monuments dedicated to the Croatian Glagolitic script.
This peaceful landscape is famous for its forests, truffles, and picturesque hilltop towns. If you’re seeking tranquility, nature, and privacy, numerous villas with pools in Istria provide the perfect getaway, far from the crowds.
EXPERIENCE THE HEART OF ISTRIAN CULTURE!
