Buje (Italian: Buie d'Istria) is a city in Istria, Croatia, population 5,340 (2001).
Buje is is a picturesque town situated in Istria, Croatia's westernmost peninsula. It is placed a hill 10 km inland from the Adriatic sea. Buje has a rich history; traces of life in the region date back to prehistoric times. The town developed from a Roman and Slavic settlement into a medieval town, and today it is a modern regional center. Despite its development Buje has retained many features typical of of various historical periods. With its narrow streets and a central square, the old town is a fine example of medieval architecture with strong Venetian influences. A baroque church from the 16th century, built on the foundations of a Roman temple dominates the square. The old city was protected with stone fortifications, part of which have been preserved to modern times. Being situated on a hill, the old town offers exquisit views on the surrounding scenery, dominated by mediterranean vegetation, vineyards and olive groves. Outside of the old town a modern city has sprung. After the WWII Buje developed into an industrial, cultural and economic center of the region. To its visitors today Buje offers a blend of gentle mediterranean climate, good food and a quiet setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the more turistical Istrian coastal resorts.
Alfred