Momjan: Rota Castle, the House of Castles and local Muscat

Updated October 13, 2026.

Rota Castle and local wines draw visitors to Momjan. The House of Castles explains the history behind the ruins and their surviving square tower.

North of Buje, inland from Umag, Momjan consists of a village around the church and a castle on lower ground. The upper village retains townhouses dating from the 17th to the 19th century. The parish church of St Martin took shape in the 15th century through the rebuilding of an older church and was extended in 1859.

From fortress to the Rota family residence

The castle stands on a rocky outcrop above the ravine of the Poganja stream, also known as Argilla. Its history goes back to the 13th century, but its purchase in 1548 brought a major change. The new owner, Simone Rota, converted the fortress into a residence and commissioned St Stephen’s Chapel and a stone bridge. A tower and sections of the walls survive from the former residence.

A virtual visit in the former post office

The House of Istrian Castles occupies the former post office and dairy in the centre of Momjan. Its multimedia exhibition lets you compare the remains of fortifications with three-dimensional reconstructions. Video panoramas and virtual reality show how the buildings once looked, including Momjan Castle.

The exhibition is available in Croatian, English, German, Italian and Slovenian. From October to May, outside the regular summer opening season, visits require an advance arrangement.

Muscat and a winery visit

The vineyards around Momjan are known for white Muscat, made into both dry and sweet wines. In the valley below the village, Kozlović winery also produces Istrian Malvasia and Teran. A tasting alongside your visit to Momjan requires a separate booking at the winery.

Cingarela calls for a more demanding hike

Cingarela waterfall and cave lie between Momjan and Kaštel. The route starting and finishing at St Saba’s Church in Kaštel covers around eight kilometres and takes about three hours on foot. It passes through Gadari to the cave, then descends steeply towards the waterfall. Ropes assist hikers on some sections, and the ground can be very slippery. Hiking boots and experience on steep trails are necessary.

Distance from Bale: 52 minutes driving

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