At the second point of our hike, we reach Kostanjica, known as the “Silent Sleeper,” located above the Porte Porton area. In addition to walking, you can also reach Kostanjica by car via a road that ascends from Ponte Porton. The main point of interest is the parish church dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and Sts. Peter and Paul. Built in the early 16th century and renovated in the latter half of the 18th century, the church features a characteristic Venetian bell tower.

After visiting the church, we continue through vineyards, orchards, and stunning olive groves, gradually ascending uphill to reconnect with the former Parenzana railway route. We turn right, follow the gravel path straight, and reach a paved (county) road. After approximately 800 meters, we arrive at the next picturesque village, Završje, 7 km east of Grožnjan. Završje is a place rich in historical and sacred heritage, where time seems to have stopped. Today, it is home to only forty permanent residents.

Kostanjica

Although inhabited since ancient times, as evidenced by tomb remains and inscriptions from Roman times, Kostanjica today has only 62 residents. Historically, it served as an extension of the defensive point of the nearby Završje. The village was once surrounded by walls, remnants of which can still be seen on its southern side.

The first written mention of Kostanjica dates back to 1102, when it was given to the Aquileian church under Villa de Castan.

In the centre of the village, on a small square, you’ll find the parish church, a freestanding bell tower, and the town loggia, along with tightly packed houses around the church, mostly dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. The parish church in Kostanjica, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Peter and Paul, was rebuilt in 1500. An inscription on it reads Electamus Genoa 1769, marking the year of its expansion. The church has three altars, the largest being a marble altar adorned with St. Peter and Paul statues. Next to the church stands a Venetian bell tower with a square base and an octagonal spire.

A walk through this sleepy village, surrounded by orchards and olive groves, immerses you in complete silence and the tranquillity of nature, free from any sounds of modern technology—another impressive and serene gem in the municipality!