Valfontane village on Crveni Vrh - Monte Rosso

St. Ana estate is located in Valfontane, a village in Croatian Istra, located in the area known as the Red Mountain, Crveni Vrh in Croatian or Monte Rosso in Italian.

Valfontane has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The region was inhabited by the Histri, an Illyrian tribe, before it was conquered by the Romans in the 2nd century BC. The Romans left their mark on the area, building roads, bridges, and other infrastructure that helped to develop the local economy.

In the medieval period, the area was controlled by various powers, including the Byzantines, the Venetians, and the Habsburgs. This led to a rich cultural mix that can be seen in the architecture, language, and customs of the local population.

Valfontane was also an important center for olive oil production, with olive groves being cultivated in the surrounding hills and valleys. The village was known for its high-quality olive oil, which was prized for its rich flavor and health benefits.

During the 20th century, Valfontane, like many rural areas in Croatia, experienced significant changes as a result of political and economic upheavals. Many young people left the village to seek work in urban areas, and the traditional way of life began to decline.

Today, Valfontane is a small but vibrant community that is proud of its past and working to preserve its cultural heritage. The church of St. Lawrence remains an important symbol of the village’s history and identity, and efforts are underway to promote sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism as a way of supporting the local economy.