Boskarin: A symbol of Istria and tradition

At the heart of the Istrian peninsula lives the Boskarin, an indigenous breed of cattle that has accompanied the lives of people in this region for centuries. With its distinctive lyre-shaped horns and calm gaze, the Boskarin has become a familiar part of many families’ daily lives throughout history.

The origin of Boskarin

Boskarin, the local name for the Istrian cattle (sometimes also called bakin or podolac), represents an autochthonous breed of Croatia’s largest peninsula, Istria, and some Kvarner islands, including Krk. The name Boskarin originates from “boška,” the Istrian dialect word for forest—the natural habitat of this animal.

This breed belongs to the broader family of Podolic cattle, which arrived in Europe during the 5th century, carried by the great migrations of peoples. Over the centuries, the Boskarin adapted to the specific conditions of Istria, evolving into a robust and resilient animal.

A reliable work companion

The Boskarin was once indispensable in rural life. Its strength was used for plowing fields, transporting wood and stones, and performing other demanding tasks that were part of life in Istria. It was much more than just an animal—it was a partner in work and life, often treated as part of the family.

However, as agricultural practices modernized and tractors replaced traditional tools, the Boskarin’s role in everyday life diminished. By the end of the last century, the Boskarin population had drastically declined, and the breed faced near extinction.

Preservation of the breed

To save the Boskarin, local communities and organizations, such as AZRRI (Agency for Rural Development of Istria), initiated programs to preserve and increase its population. Today, the situation has significantly improved, with over 2,000 Boskarin cattle thriving in Istria.