Truffle is an unusual subterranean fungus. During the classical period, they provoked amazement due to the belief that they grow where the lightning hits the ground. Also, artists used it a source of inspiration, and even today, it is considered as an aphrodisiac.
There are two important varieties of truffles: white truffle (Tuber Magnatum) and black truffle (Tuber Melanosporum). Both of these can be found in the Motovun forest located in the valley of the Mirna River. Even though truffles can be found elsewhere, Motovun truffles are considered to be of the highest quality.
Truffles live 10 – 30 centimetres underground, which makes it hard to find, and that’s why trained dogs (or pigs) are used in the truffle hunting activities.