# Dvigrad

- **Country:** Croatia
- **Coordinates:** 45.126803, 13.812088
- **Notes:** Dvigrad is an abandoned medieval town in central Istria, Croatia. It is located in the Draga valley. The history of the settlement is prehistoric; it remained inhabited until the 18th century.
- **Year Built:** 18th century
- **Castle Type:** Castle/Fortress
- **Location Text:** Draga near Pazin, Istria County

Dvigrad, meaning "Twin-town," is an abandoned medieval settlement located in the Draga valley of central Istria in western Croatia. Also historically known as Duo Castra or Dvograd, the site features stone castle ruins that stand as a testament to the region's layered past. While the specific year of construction and the original builder are not explicitly recorded in available summaries, the settlement's history extends back to prehistoric times. It functioned as an inhabited town for centuries, serving as a significant community within the Istrian landscape before its eventual decline.

The town remained continuously populated until the 18th century, after which it was deserted and transformed into the ghost town seen today. Its historical significance lies in its long tenure as a inhabited center from antiquity through the Middle Ages, reflecting the cultural shifts of the area including Roman and medieval influences. Currently, the site exists in a ruined condition, characterized by its stone materials and overgrown surroundings. Despite its abandoned state, it remains a notable landmark within Istria County, attracting interest for its atmospheric ruins and historical depth.

Efforts are currently underway to ensure the survival of this cultural heritage site. The Regional Programme for Cultural and Natural Heritage in South East Europe, supported by the Council of Europe, is actively attempting to preserve and reconstruct parts of the town. These initiatives aim to stabilize the remaining structures and protect the location from further decay. Today, Dvigrad serves primarily as a historical monument and tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into Croatia's medieval past while ongoing conservation work seeks to restore its former prominence.

![Photo of Dvigrad](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c9/Dvigrad02.JPG)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dvigrad (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)