A tiny medieval village in Croatia called Zavrsje gained fame by standing in for the historic UK city of Nottingham in the 2018 Robin Hood movie. This picturesque spot in Istria, home to just 39 residents, offers travelers a quick two hour flight from the UK and blends ancient history with modern film appeal.
History and Charm of Zavrsje
Zavrsje sits on a hill above the Mirna Valley in Istria, Croatia. Its roots trace back to a prehistoric hill fort, with the first written records from the 11th century.
Over time, various rulers shaped the village, including the Counts of Gorizia and the Habsburgs. Later, the noble Contarini family took control.
Today, visitors find narrow stone streets, old walls, and a peaceful atmosphere. The village keeps its medieval look, drawing those who seek quiet escapes from busy tourist spots.
Local farmers still work the surrounding fields, adding to the timeless feel. In 2025, interest in such hidden gems grows as people look for authentic European experiences.
Film Fame from Robin Hood
In 2017, director Otto Bathurst chose Zavrsje for key scenes in the Robin Hood film starring Taron Egerton, Jamie Foxx, and Eve Hewson. The village played 12th century Nottingham, including the big fight between Robin Hood and the Sheriff.
Filming moved there after starting in Dubrovnik, which also doubled for parts of the city. Crews transformed the streets to match medieval England.
The movie hit theaters in 2018 and boosted Zavrsje’s profile. It earned a nomination for Best European Film Location in 2019 from the European Film Commissions Network.
By 2020, it placed as runner up in the same awards. This recognition highlights how film locations drive tourism in small places.
Travelers now visit to walk in the footsteps of movie stars. Recent posts on social media in 2025 show fans sharing photos from the site.
Why Zavrsje Works as Nottingham Dupe
Zavrsje’s stone buildings and hilly layout mirror Nottingham’s historic vibe. Both places feature ancient fortifications and a sense of old world mystery.
Nottingham is known for its castle and Robin Hood legends, while Zavrsje offers similar backdrops without the crowds. This similarity made it a perfect stand in for filmmakers.
Experts note that Croatia’s varied landscapes attract productions seeking affordable alternatives to UK sites. In recent years, the country has hosted major films and shows.
A quick comparison shows the appeal:
| Feature | Zavrsje | Nottingham |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39 | Over 300,000 |
| Key Attraction | Medieval streets | Nottingham Castle |
| Film Role | 12th century dupe | Legendary home |
| Travel Time from UK | 2 hours by plane | Local drive |
This table illustrates why directors pick spots like Zavrsje for authenticity on a budget.
Travel Tips for Visiting Zavrsje
Getting to Zavrsje is easy with flights to Pula Airport, about an hour away by car. Rent a vehicle to explore the winding roads of Istria.
The best time to visit is spring or fall for mild weather and fewer visitors. Summers can get warm, with temperatures reaching 25C in September.
Pack comfortable shoes for walking the uneven paths. Local eateries serve fresh Istrian cuisine, like truffles and olive oil.
Stay in nearby towns such if Zavrsje’s options are limited. Book ahead during peak seasons.
For film fans, guided tours highlight shooting spots. Check local apps for updates on events in 2025.
Nearby Attractions in Istria
Istria offers more than just Zavrsje. The coastal town of Rovinj charms with its harbor and old alleys.
Pula boasts a Roman amphitheater that hosts concerts. Nature lovers can hike in the Mirna Valley.
Here are top spots to add to your itinerary:
- Rovinj: Known for Venetian style buildings and fresh seafood.
- Pula Arena: One of the best preserved Roman sites in Europe.
- Motovun: A hilltop village with views and truffle hunting.
- Groznjan: An artist colony with galleries and music festivals.
These places make Istria a full travel destination.
Combining them with Zavrsje creates a perfect mix of history, culture, and adventure. Recent travel trends in 2025 show rising interest in Croatia’s inland gems over crowded coasts.
Rise of Film Tourism in Europe
Film locations like Zavrsje boost local economies through tourism. After the Robin Hood movie, visitor numbers grew, though the village stays quiet.
Similar spots in Europe, such as those from Game of Thrones in Dubrovnik, see big crowds. Zavrsje offers a calmer option.
In 2025, experts predict more films will use Croatian sites due to incentives and scenery. This trend ties into global shifts toward unique travel experiences.
Travelers seek places that feel like stepping into a story. Zavrsje fits that bill perfectly.
If this story sparked your interest in hidden European villages or film locations, share your thoughts in the comments below. Have you visited Zavrsje or plan to? Spread the word by sharing this article with fellow travelers.
