Celebrating the Heritage of Pazin Cukerančić | pilot in Croatia

As part of the COMMHERITOUR project, LAG Central Istria implemented a pilot action aimed at preserving, promoting, and interpreting the cultural heritage of the Pazinski cukerančić, a traditional pastry deeply rooted in the wedding customs and identity of Central Istria.

One of the key outcomes of the pilot action is the newly established information corner dedicated to the pastry, located in the Pazin Castle. The interactive exhibition enables visitors to explore the history and cultural significance of this traditional pastry through multimedia content and personal testimonies from local community members. Visitors can learn about the preparation process, download the traditional recipe, virtually create their own cukerančić, and discover why this pastry continues to hold a special place in local traditions and collective memory.

Another important activity was the premiere of the interpretative performance Forbidden Cukerančić (Zabranjeni cukerančić), held on 4 September 2025 at Pazin Castle. Through an engaging combination of storytelling and heritage interpretation, the audience experienced the atmosphere, customs, colours, and flavours of a traditional Istrian wedding. The performance highlighted the role of the Pazin Cukerančić as an indispensable symbol of wedding celebrations and an important element of the intangible cultural heritage of Central Istria. The performance successfully combined education and entertainment, offering visitors an authentic insight into local traditions while enriching the cultural and tourism offer of the region. The event also included a live presentation of the traditional cukerančić-making process and a tasting session. The second performance of the play was held during the “Honey Days” event in Pazin, an important regional event dedicated to promoting a product of great significance to the local community. The play was designed as a transferable cultural heritage product that can be staged on a regular basis both in Pazin and at various events and promotional activities beyond the destination.

Through these activities, the COMMHERITOUR project demonstrates how innovative interpretation methods can strengthen the connection between cultural heritage and sustainable tourism, ensuring that local traditions are preserved, experienced, and shared with future generations.