Belaj - Šumber - Kožljak - Paz

Belaj

Unlike other castles in Istria, Belaj is inhabited and life in the castle is similar to the one of centuries ago. It is renovated and lively, its splendor and magnificence displays its rich history. King Heinrich's deed of gift from the mid-11th c. is the first written document mentioning Belaj. As a reward for the conquered Croatian land, this castle was given to Ulrich von Weimar, who in addition to Lupoglav, Boljun, Letaj, Roč, Kožljak acquired Belaj as well.
In the past Belaj changed several rulers: Patriarchs of Aquileia, Counts of Gorizia in the beginning of the 14th c. and the Habsburgs in the 16th c. At that time the old Belaj Castle was abandoned, and nearby Posrt Castle was built, exceptionally important in the Uskok War, both as a refuge and a powerful stronghold of the Austrian Archduke.  The war against Venice severely damaged Belaj, so it was completely reconstructed by Daniele Barbo.

The entire property is a precious Baroque architectural complex consisting of residential part of the castle, wine cellar and stables. On the ground floor is the Chapel of St. Henry, the only one in Istria dedicated to this saint.
In the end of the 17th c. Belaj was bought by Prince Johann Weichard Auersperg. Together with the surrounding area, it remained the property of the Auersperg family until 1945, when all their possessions were confiscated and nationalized.

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