Istrian folk narrative tradition from the perspe ctive of changing borders

This paper focuses on the folk narrative tradition of Istria, which reflect the area s cultural landscape as well as the everyday life of its inhabitants. Presented is an overview of the changing narrative tradition in the area situated along presently disappearing formal state borders within the expanded European Union. The author explores older studies and research conducted by contemporary scholars who focused their scholarly interest in the spiritual culture of this area. Special interest is dedicated to the narrative tradition connected with cultural landscape, to traditional narratives as part of intangible heritage, as well as their role in overcoming ethnic as well as social and economic problems.