Living in Istria : lifestyle, culture and more.
People and customs
Croats are extremely proud of their heritage and culture. The sense of nationalism comes both from their long and rich culture as well as a legacy of foreign invasion and control.
Folklore plays a key role in preserving the culture. Life experiences are translated into verse, poetic songs, melodies, fairy tales, symbolic rituals, music, dance, costumes, and jewellery.
They are very family oriented people, it is still the basis of the social structure. The family provides its members with a social network, and assistance in times of need.
The people of Istria have always been farm labourers, but what they really engaged in was defined by the configuration of the surrounding land.