Roč, Medieval settlement in Istria County, Croatia
Roč is a medieval settlement perched on a hilltop in the Buzet area of Istria. The old village has preserved its fortified walls, a working watchtower, and tightly clustered stone dwellings that reflect its ancient defensive design.
The settlement was documented in the 11th century and became fortified during the 12th century. It emerged as a center for Slavic literary culture and played a key role in spreading the Glagolitic script across the region.
The settlement preserves traditions tied to the Glagolitic script, an ancient writing system that shaped local identity. You can sense this heritage when walking through the stone streets and visiting the local church.
The settlement is accessible by foot via walking trails, especially the Glagolitic Alley that connects it to nearby villages. The steep, narrow streets call for sturdy footwear and patience when navigating the compact layout.
A local printer produced one of the earliest printed books in the Glagolitic script here, making the village a milestone in printing history. This legacy remains overshadowed by grander narratives, yet it marks a turning point in how Slavic texts reached readers.
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