In the final thesis, we studied changes in the farm economy of Sabonje (Brkini Hills) between 1800 and 2020. With the analysis of selected archival sources, statistical data, other databases and interviews carried out in Sabonje, we wanted to provide in-depth insights into the state of farm economy and its historical evolution. We also got acquainted with the recent challenges farmers in the area have been facing. Considering the fact that the settlement of Sabonje has only 60 inhabitants (in year 2020), there are evidences of dynamic farm economy. This is the difference between Sabonje and the majority of villages in the Brkini Hills – the later have been characterized by abandonment of agriculture. The Brkini Hills have relatively unfavorable natural conditions for farming (large slope inclination, heavy soils for agricultural cultivation), the area is subject to population aging and depopulation. Furthermore, land consolidation and enlarged agricultural production are not possible due to the unclear ownership rights over parcels and the fragmented land ownership structure. Brkini Hills experienced more than two centuries of vivid trade connections with Trieste and Rijeka; the loss of these trade connections drove the Brkini Hills to stagnation. This study identifies several historical events and processes that influenced the development of agriculture. Nowadays farmers confront with several hurdles with selling and advertising local products. Limited size of utilised agricultural land and, consequently, limited quantities of marketable crops are two out of many factors affecting the modest role of farmers from Sabonje on the local markets. Local farmers see the greatest market niche in selling their products under the common Brkini Hills brand that has not been established so far.
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