Hum

Hum, often referred to as the smallest town in the world, is a tiny medieval settlement located in the heart of Istria, Croatia. Despite its size—just a handful of houses and fewer than 30 residents—Hum is rich in history, culture, and charm, making it a unique and memorable destination. Encircled by well-preserved stone walls, Hum looks much like it did centuries ago. A single stone-paved street connects the main points of the town, including a Romanesque church, a bell tower, and a small town loggia. The town’s architecture, carved inscriptions, and historical landmarks offer a glimpse into the past, especially the Church of St. Jerome, known for its early medieval frescoes. Hum is also closely linked to glagolitic heritage, an ancient Slavic script, and is part of the Glagolitic Alley, a series of monuments leading from the nearby town of Roč. This makes it an important cultural stop for those interested in the roots of Slavic literacy and Croatian identity. Beyond its history, Hum is celebrated for its warm hospitality and traditional Istrian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies and taste biska, a mistletoe-based brandy that originates from Hum. The town even holds an annual brandy festival that attracts visitors from all over the region. Hum may be small in size, but its soul, story, and spirit leave a lasting impression on everyone who visits.