This photo was taken on March 21st, 2025, during a one-day road trip through Istria. Bale, a small hilltop town not far from Rovinj, was one of the stops I didn’t plan to spend much time in—but ended up staying longer than expected. The narrow, cobbled alleyways, weathered stone walls, and quiet charm of the town immediately pulled me in.
A Closer Look at the Frame
This photo captures one of Bale’s typical passages—tight, textured, and full of character. The stone arches layered over the alleyway, along with the mix of rustic gates, pastel-colored facades, and aged shutters, show just how compact and preserved the architecture is here. Every surface has a history, from the worn-out stones underfoot to the faded signs on the walls. These old streets aren’t staged; they’re simply lived-in and authentic. The lighting was soft, highlighting the textures without losing the sense of depth in the scene.
Why I Keep Coming Back to Places Like This
Bale reminded me that small towns often offer the most when it comes to photography. There’s no need for a wide lens or dramatic skies—sometimes it’s about pausing and noticing the spaces in between. This shot wasn’t pre-planned. I was walking, looked to the side, and this composition just clicked. I aim to capture these kinds of moments—the ones that most people might walk past but that speak volumes about the place.
A Bit of Context
Bale, also known as Valle in Italian, is a medieval town built from stone and surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. It’s less touristy than nearby coastal spots, which means scenes like this one still feel untouched. Its roots date back to Roman times, and the town has managed to preserve its original street layout and architectural consistency. Wandering through Bale feels like stepping back into a slower, quieter version of the world.
See More from This Series
You can check out the full Istria photo series or browse my archive for more Croatian towns and cities. I aim to document places like Bale with a straightforward, documentary approach—no filters, no over-processing, just real scenes, well composed.
