The old town core of Vrsar, a picturesque Istrian town, will this Saturday, June 7, 2025, once again revive the spirit of the past by holding the fourteenth edition of the event "Old Fair under the Castle". Starting at 6 PM, Degrassi Square and the surrounding stone streets will become a stage for an authentic depiction of life as it was during the time of the County of Vrsar, an administrative unit that shaped the destiny of this place for centuries. Visitors will have a unique opportunity to step back in time to when Vrsar was the seat of power and wealth of the Poreč bishops.

Historical significance of the County of Vrsar and the Statute

The County of Vrsar, formally abolished only in 1778, represented the most significant and wealthiest possession of the Poreč bishops. It was precisely this status that ensured Vrsar a rapid economic and social rise and an enviable reputation in the region. The foundation of the legal and social order within the county was the Vrsar Statute, adopted back in 1609. This important document, known as "Statuti et Ordini nel Castello di Orsera", regulated in detail all aspects of life within the castle walls and the associated settlement. It ensured order and peace, strictly supervised trade activities, the work of craftsmen such as winemakers, bakers, and butchers, but also prescribed appropriate behavior for both residents and visitors. The Vrsar Statute was advanced for its time; the town gates were locked every evening, improper waste disposal was strictly forbidden, the operation of catering establishments (oštarija) was under constant supervision, and special attention was paid to hygiene and maintaining the cleanliness of water sources, which was crucial for preventing diseases that ravaged Istria at that time. Even entry into the town was controlled, so men had to be shaved, and there was only one communal oven for baking bread. Violators of the Statute's provisions were punished, sometimes on the pillory set up in the main square.

Rich program of the Old Fair

This year's Old Fair begins on Saturday at 6:00 PM, when numerous exhibitors will present themselves in Degrassi Square and in the winding alleys of the old town of Vrsar. Visitors will be able to view and buy authentic Istrian products, handicrafts, and souvenirs offered by family farms, representatives of domestic crafts, and skilled artisans. The range of products will include traditional delicacies, items made of wood, stone, leather, and fragrant lavender products.

The popular Bambus band will take care of the musical atmosphere and good entertainment, whose sounds will echo through the stone streets. The choir of the Italian Community "La Contrada" will also contribute to the cultural program, nurturing the local musical tradition. Members of the Holloenek Hungarica ensemble from Hungary have been announced as special guests, who will present a part of Hungarian cultural heritage to the audience.

Revived history and knightly combat

One of the most attractive parts of the program will certainly be the performance of knights from the Association for Revived History "Mutila". These passionate enthusiasts of the Middle Ages will demonstrate knightly skills, display authentic equipment, and stage thrilling battles, taking those present back to the age of brave warriors and courtly intrigues. Their performances regularly attract great attention and delight audiences of all ages.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to actively participate in an interactive game called "Become the CITTADINO ILLUSTRE of the Vrsar castle". Through this game, about twenty costumed volunteers will guide participants through the rich cultural and historical heritage of Vrsar. The goal of the game is to prove knowledge and respect for the rules of the Vrsar Statute in order to earn the title of honorary citizen of the castle. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the specifics of life in the 17th century in a fun and educational way.

Old crafts workshops and children's corner

In addition to Browse the fair's offerings, visitors will be able to see up close how some of the traditional products are made. Presentations of the making of Vrsar amaretti, sweet hazelnut delicacies whose recipe has been passed down through generations, will be organized. The secret of these cookies lies, among other things, in the manual grinding of hazelnuts to retain their full aroma and fat content. The art of making homemade pasta, weaving baskets from willow branches, known as "bekve", and a demonstration of hand weaving on a loom will also be shown. A particularly interesting presentation will be the spinning of wool using a distaff and spindle, a technique by which yarn for making garments was obtained from carded wool.

The youngest visitors will not be neglected. A special children's corner has been designed for them where they will be able to express themselves creatively by making colorful flower wreaths and medieval hair ornaments, thus immersing themselves in the world of imagination and the past.

Scenic performance by Istra Inspirit

The highlight of the evening is expected to begin at 7:00 PM, when actors from the Istra Inspirit project will perform a scenic interpretation based on the historical statute "Statuti et Ordini nel Castello di Orsera". Through this performance, everyday life, customs, and rules that prevailed in Vrsar during the 17th century, specifically in the year 1609 when the statute was adopted, will be revived in an authentic and impressive way. Istra Inspirit is known for its innovative approaches to reviving the history and cultural heritage of Istria, and their performances regularly provide an unforgettable experience.

The event "Old Fair under the Castle" aims not only to entertain visitors but also to educate them about the rich history of Vrsar and the importance of the Vrsar Statute, which with its strict but fair provisions, especially those concerning hygiene, contributed to the development of the town and the protection of its inhabitants from diseases. The organization of this unique event is signed by the Tourist Board of the municipality of Vrsar in cooperation with Istra Inspirit, striving to preserve and promote cultural heritage and provide visitors with an authentic experience of past times. Stroll through the stone streets, feel a touch of history, and discover how life was lived in Vrsar centuries ago.

If you are planning to visit Vrsar during this event or at some other time, secure your accommodation in Vrsar in time. This place offers numerous opportunities for vacation and exploration, and the Old Fair is an ideal opportunity to experience its unique atmosphere. Do not miss the opportunity to be part of this living historical story and discover the charms that Vrsar offers.