Situated on a limestone plateau at 284 m above sea level, along the edge of Lim Valley and adjacent to the Pula–Ljubljana railway line, Kanfanar serves as a significant transportation hub, historically due to the railway and presently due to the construction of the Istrian Ypsilon highway. Its significance is further highlighted by the Lim Valley, stretching as a deep incision from Pazin Cave in the north to Lim Bay in the west, connecting the coastal and inland areas of Istria.
Archaeological findings bear witness to early habitation, with the cave of St. Romuald, located in the Lim Valley, standing out. It is believed that St. Romuald resided here for a period, using the cave as his abode while dedicating himself to the hermitic life following the construction of the monastery in Kloštar.
Kanfanar is the center of an area once dominated by the early medieval town of Dvigrad, situated in the immediate vicinity of Lim Valley. First mentioned in 879 AD, Dvigrad remains a witness to the rich history of the Istrian Peninsula, tracing its roots back to prehistoric times, with its name suggesting the presence of two towns in the area. Today, its ruins bear witness to tumultuous historical events, including conflicts between Venice and Austria and outbreaks of the plague. The legend of the hidden treasure of Henry Morgan adds a mystical charm to the area, suggesting that the famous pirate may have found refuge near Dvigrad, leaving a mark on local mythology.
The municipality of Kanfanar, situated in the heart of Istria, enchants visitors with its rich cultural heritage and picturesque nature. It is known for the festival of Istrian oxen - "boškarin", held every last Saturday in July, as well as for the "fuži" pasta festival, dedicated to Istrian pasta.
