Nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the rugged mountains, the Istrian Peninsula is a region of striking natural beauty and cultural richness. Yet, beneath its picturesque landscapes and sun-drenched coastlines lies a dark and turbulent history that continues to cast long shadows over both Croatia and Italy. The story of Istria’s violent past still haunts Croatia and Italy, a legacy of conflict, displacement, and unresolved tensions that have shaped the identities of the people who call this land home.
A Complex History of Conquest and Conflict
The history of Istria is one of constant flux, a crossroads where various empires and nations have clashed and merged over centuries. From the Roman Empire to the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, Istria has been claimed by many, leaving a patchwork of influences that are still visible today in its architecture, language, and customs. However, it is the events of the 20th century that have left the deepest scars.
In the aftermath of World War I, the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire led to the redistribution of territories across Europe. Istria, once a part of this vast empire, was handed over to Italy under the Treaty of Rapallo in 1920. For the Italian government, this acquisition was seen as a reclamation of historical territory, but for the Slavic inhabitants of Istria, it marked the beginning of a period of repression and forced assimilation. The Fascist regime of Benito Mussolini pursued a policy of “Italianization,” aimed at erasing Slavic culture and language from the region. Schools were required to teach in Italian, and Slavic names were changed or Italianized, leading to a profound sense of alienation among the local population.
The end of World War II brought further turmoil to the region. As the Axis powers were defeated, the boundaries of Europe were once again redrawn. Istria, along with the city of Trieste, became a contentious point of dispute between Italy and the newly-formed Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The 1947 Paris Peace Treaty ultimately ceded most of Istria to Yugoslavia, but the transition was anything but peaceful. The years that followed were marked by violence, as the local Italian population, known as the “Istrian Italians,” were subjected to retribution by the Yugoslav authorities. Thousands of Italians were forced to flee their homes in what is known as the “Istrian exodus,” a mass migration that left deep wounds on both sides.
The Foibe Massacres: A Tragic Legacy
Perhaps the most harrowing chapter of Istria’s violent past still haunts Croatia and Italy is the foibe massacres, a series of killings that took place during and after World War II. The term “foibe” refers to the deep karst sinkholes found throughout Istria, which were used as mass graves for the victims. These massacres were carried out by Yugoslav Partisans and targeted primarily Italian civilians, suspected collaborators, and anti-Communists. The exact number of victims remains a subject of debate, but estimates range from several hundred to several thousand.
The foibe massacres have become a symbol of the broader ethnic cleansing and forced migration that took place in the region during this period. For many Italians, they represent a tragic and overlooked chapter in their history, one that is still fraught with pain and anger. In Croatia, the foibe are often viewed through a different lens, seen as a part of the broader struggle against Fascism and Nazi occupation. This divergence in historical memory has made reconciliation difficult, with each side holding onto its own narrative of victimhood.
The Lingering Impact on Croatian-Italian Relations
The unresolved legacy of Istria’s violent past still haunts Croatia and Italy and continues to influence relations between the two countries. Although both are now members of the European Union, and official diplomatic ties are generally positive, the history of Istria remains a sensitive topic. Nationalist rhetoric occasionally flares up, especially during commemorative events, which can lead to tensions between the two nations.
In Italy, the memory of the Istrian exodus and the foibe massacres is kept alive through annual observances, such as the Day of Remembrance on February 10th, which commemorates the victims of the foibe and the exodus. These events are often marked by emotional speeches and ceremonies, highlighting the enduring sense of loss among the Istrian Italian community.
In Croatia, there is a growing recognition of the need to confront this painful history, but the process is complicated by the different ways in which these events are remembered. For many Croatians, the focus has traditionally been on the suffering endured under Italian Fascist rule, with less attention given to the subsequent violence against Italians. Bridging this divide requires a delicate balancing act, acknowledging the complexities of history while striving for a common understanding.
Steps Towards Reconciliation
Despite the challenges, there have been efforts to heal the wounds of the past. In recent years, both Croatia and Italy have taken steps towards reconciliation, recognizing the importance of addressing historical grievances in order to build a more peaceful and cooperative future. Joint commemorations and dialogues between historians from both countries have been initiated, aimed at fostering a more nuanced understanding of the events that transpired in Istria.
Cultural exchanges and cross-border projects have also played a role in bringing the communities closer together. Istria itself, with its unique blend of Italian and Slavic cultures, serves as a living testament to the possibility of coexistence. Towns like Rovinj and Pula, where Italian is still widely spoken, stand as symbols of the region’s multicultural heritage.
Conclusion
The history of Istria is a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of violence and displacement on communities. The scars left by these events are still visible today, shaping the identities and relationships of those who live in the region. As Istria’s violent past still haunts Croatia and Italy, it also offers lessons on the importance of reconciliation and the need to confront difficult histories with honesty and empathy. Only by acknowledging the full scope of this shared past can the people of Croatia and Italy hope to move forward, united in their diversity and committed to a future free from the conflicts of the past.
