Posert Castle

Posert Castle, also historically known as Šabec and St. Martin, is a fortified ruin located in the municipality of Cerovlje within the Istria region of Croatia. Situated near the road connecting Paz and Šušnjevica, the site features an irregular trapezoidal layout with a rectangular angle tower and an external fortified yard. While local tradition associates the location with an 11th-century grant or a 16th-century fortress built by the Barbo family, archaeological evidence confirms that the current structure dates to the second half of the 14th century. This suggests it was likely constructed under the direction of the Counts of Gorizia or their Habsburg successors. The complex includes a well-preserved guard tower that originally stood five stories tall, reaching a height of approximately 17 meters.

The castle holds significant historical value due to its connection with prominent noble families such as the Guteneggs and Moysevichs, and its tragic role in regional conflicts. During the Uskok War between 1615 and 1617, the fortress was occupied and severely devastated, leading to its eventual abandonment in favor of a new castle at Belaj. For centuries, the site remained a ruin alongside the nearby Church of St. Martin, which dates back to 1367. Questions regarding whether the various historical names referred to distinct structures at different locations remain unresolved by modern research, adding an element of mystery to its past.

In recent years, the site has undergone a major transformation from a neglected ruin to a restored landmark. Between 2009 and 2014, extensive renovation works were completed, marking Posert as the first renovated medieval castle in Istria. Today, the restored structure stands as a testament to the region's turbulent history and architectural heritage. The site is currently accessible to visitors, offering viewpoints from the tower and serving as a preserved example of medieval military architecture in Croatia.