Butori abyss and Wood Poets

Beneath the Zrenj plateau near the village of Sterna you will find a fairy tale-like abyss of Butori, the deepest in this part of Istria. Owing to the Wood Poets gathering, it has become a place of inspiration for creative souls. 

A small waterfall, an abyss, a lake – and an old abandoned mill above them make a perfect setting for the renowned international gathering of Wood Poets (Šumski pjesnici). In early August every year, when the night falls, poets and their audiences gather under the mulberry tree on the lawn over the abyss. With the crackling sound of the bonfire, they read poetry in both Croatian and the languages of guest poets.

The hosts and their guests gather to celebrate the iconic beauty of nature, without getting in its way. And no technology is needed – the entire lawn is lit with candles and torches only. There is also a small forest library there, where passers-by can leave or borrow books, and an Alley of Poets with lyrics of the guest poets imprinted on its surface. Nature is the true muse here, and the path to its heart leads through a sustainable use of its resources and an eco-friendly lifestyle.