The Counts of Istria were noble rulers in the historical region of Istria, which is located in present-day Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy. This title was held by various noble families from the Middle Ages until the early modern period, influencing the political and social landscape of the area. The counts played a significant role in local governance, land ownership, and trade. They were often involved in conflicts with neighboring powers, including the Venetian Republic and the Habsburg Monarchy, as they sought to maintain their influence and control over the strategically important Istrian Peninsula.