Perched in the hills of central Istria, northwest Croatia, lies the charming village of Hum, boasting breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and forests.
Local folklore suggests that benevolent giants constructed the town using leftover stones from neighboring villages. Encircled by medieval walls, Hum has preserved its original allure with no modern construction beyond the protective barriers.
Tourists are captivated by the town’s tiny dimensions, as it holds the title of being the smallest in the world. Explorers revel in its ancient architecture, deep-rooted cultural legacy, and culinary delights, including delectable local cuisine and brandy crafted from regional harvests.
Though legends credit giants with the town’s creation, historical records trace Hum back to 1102, initially known as Cholm. Notably, Count Ulrich I erected the castle within the defensive fortifications, anchoring the settlements adjacent to the castle grounds. Over time, strategic additions like a watchtower and bell further fortified the town’s defenses.
With just two picturesque cobbled streets, Hum spans a mere 100 meters by 30. The latest census in 2021 revealed a population of 52 residents, marking a significant increase from the previous tally of 30 a decade earlier.
Recognized as a town due to its governing council and prominent parish church, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Hum boasts Glagolitic artifacts showcasing ancient Slavic alphabets and Croatian literary treasures from the Middle Ages. The town museum exhibits writings from the era, complemented by Romanesque frescoes in the Chapel of St. Jerome.
History enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the Glagolitic Alley, a historic path from Roc village to Hum adorned with monumental representations of the ancient Glagolitic alphabet.
Residents uphold age-old customs, such as the annual Day of Hum on June 11, featuring the town mayor’s election. During this event, local judges engrave their votes on a wooden stick at the Municipal Loggia, a historic town hall.
After strolling through the charming streets, visitors can savor local delicacies like Istrian vegetable stew, hearty pasta dishes, smoked pork loin, and krostule, a popular fried dough dessert. Truffles, abundant in the region, make Buzet town renowned as the City of Truffles.
A must-try specialty is biska, a traditional brandy concocted from fermented grapes, mistletoe, and medicinal herbs, with a recipe dating back 2,000 years to the Celtic druids. Every October, visitors can sample this unique drink at the Istrian Rakija Festival.
A notable event in Hum is the Industrial Hemp Festival, typically held in August, showcasing hemp-based products like oil, flour, tea, and seeds. Attendees can indulge in hemp-infused foods and beverages, including cheese, cookies, crackers, bread, bread burgers, and gin.
For travelers heading to Hum, private car hire is recommended due to the region’s unreliable public transportation. Ample parking at 3 euros for the entire day allows visitors to explore at leisure. Additionally, local day tours frequently include stops in the town, making it an ideal resting spot for hikers and cyclists traversing Istria’s scenic trails.
The closest airport, Rijeka (RJK), offers direct flights from London Stansted with carriers like Ryanair and indirect routes via Lufthansa from Heathrow.
A Tripadvisor reviewer shared their enchanting experience, praising Hum as the “smallest town in the world” with a timeless charm and captivating ambiance.
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