Once a border town, Tinjan was known as Attinianum in Roman times. It became a town in 1578, preserving its history ever since. At the summit of the settlement stands the parish church of St. Simon and St. Jude the Apostles, built in 1773 in an early Neoclassical style with Baroque and Rococo elements inside. Previously, a church dedicated to St. Anthony the Abbot stood in the same place. The old town core has remained unchanged since the Middle Ages, with the oldest house dating back to 1442.
Today, Tinjan proudly preserves its rich history and tradition. Symbols such as stone drywalls, ponds, scythes, and rankuns, as well as the rich folklore and architectural heritage, represent the essence of this place's identity. Particularly notable is the tradition of Istrian prosciutto production, preserved in several registered prosciutto factories, leading to Tinjan being declared the Municipality of Istrian Prosciutto in 2006. Additionally, the blacksmithing craft is another important tradition of this area, with Tinjan's blacksmiths being widely renowned.
Kringa, near Tinjan, is known as the home of Europe's oldest vampire, Jure Grando. His story was recorded in the book "The Glory of the Duchy of Carniola" by Slovenian traveler Janez Vajkard Valvasor. Grando, who died in 1656, reportedly rose from his grave every night, wandered around Kringa, knocked on doors, and then visited his widow. After sixteen years of terror, the locals decided to decapitate him and bury his head. The story of Grando inspired numerous literary and cinematic works and became the basis for cultural programs in Kringa and Tinjan.
Tinjan, once fortified with walls and towers, is now a captivating place where tradition and history are proudly displayed, making it an integral part of Istrian heritage.
