Park istarskih velikana

Park istarskih velikana (the Park of Istrian Greats) is a compact city park in the very center of Pazin, the inland capital of Istria, Croatia. It combines a quiet green retreat with a memorial tribute to the region's most notable historical figures.

What will you see in the park?

The park covers roughly 0.6 hectares (1.5 acres), and despite its modest size it packs in plenty to discover. Its main feature is a collection of busts honoring prominent Istrians — around fourteen sculptures commemorating figures such as Bishop Juraj Dobrila, writer Vladimir Nazor, and regional historical figures including Joakim Rakovac, Olga Ban, Giuseppe Budičina known as "Pina," and Vjekoslav Ivančić. Each bust carries an information plaque, turning a short walk through the park into a compact lesson on Istrian history.

The layout splits into two sections linked by gravel paths. The southern part has platforms with benches, perfect for a shaded rest. The northern part features a wooden platform with a ground-level fountain, a distinctive spot where families with children tend to gather. Rare tree and shrub species are also planted throughout the grounds, giving the park something of the feel of a small arboretum.

How do you get there?

The park sits right in central Pazin, close to the city's main landmarks, including the historic Pazin Castle and the canyon of the Pazinčica River. Thanks to its central location, it's easiest to reach on foot — both the bus and train stations are only a short walk away. Visitors arriving by car will find parking spaces near the town center.

When should you visit?

The park is worth visiting year-round: in summer it offers shade from the trees and cooler air than the sun-baked old town streets, while spring and autumn showcase the greenery of its rarer plantings. It's especially worth timing a visit for summer, when the city runs its "Summer in the Park" program — a series of free events, concerts, and gatherings for residents and visitors of all ages. During this period, the park becomes the town's central meeting point and a hub of community life.

It's also worth knowing that the park has recently undergone renovation work. The city of Pazin has planned a new children's playground and a restored fountain, while preserving the site's memorial character — the sculptures and busts of historical figures are being restored rather than removed. During the earthworks, remains dating back to 1902 were even uncovered, confirming that the site has a longer history than a first glance might suggest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is entry to the park free? Yes, the park is an open public space and can be visited free of charge at any time of day.

How much time should you plan for a visit? Given its small size, walking through the park and viewing all the busts usually takes about 20–30 minutes, though during summer cultural events you can easily spend much longer here.

Is the park suitable for families with children? Yes, the park is family-friendly — an expansion of facilities for younger visitors is planned, and the open space and fountain already draw children.

What else can you combine with a visit to the park? Thanks to its central location in Pazin, a visit to the park pairs easily with a tour of Pazin Castle and a walk along the nearby Pazinčica River canyon.