PULA
The largest town on the Istrian peninsula, with a diversity of attractions to lovers of culture, offers a rich itinerary of its three-thousand-year-old history.
Every step you take through the old town is a landmark, beginning and ending with the Roman amphitheatre.
Pula, the name given to the city of Colonia Pietas Iulia Pola by the ancient Romans, has a history that spans over 3000 years. Situated at the end of a picturesque bay and built on seven hills, this city is filled with captivating tales and fascinating anecdotes. Legend has it that it was founded by the Colchidians, who were in pursuit of the Argonauts and their leader, Jason.
The Colchidians sought revenge after Jason stole the invaluable Golden Fleece from their land.
In the present day, Pula pulsates with vibrant colors and sounds, effortlessly blending its rich past with the modern world. The city is a treasure trove of remarkable landmarks and attractions, starting with its impeccably preserved amphitheater. This grand structure stands as a testament to the city's glorious past, and it is renowned as one of the largest amphitheaters in the world. Visitors can witness the remnants of ancient gladiatorial battles and step back in time to the days of ancient Rome.
Another noteworthy site in Pula is the Temple of Augustus, an architectural marvel that pays homage to the Roman emperor with its intricate design and exquisite craftsmanship. The city is also peppered with numerous churches, monasteries, and buildings reflecting the influence of Venetian and Austro-Hungarian architecture. These structures serve as a reminder of the diverse historical periods that have shaped Pula over the centuries.
Attractive Pula is always a good choice.
Pula's culinary scene is equally enticing, with its abundance of diverse restaurants offering an array of excellent food specialties. Visitors can indulge in local delicacies and savor the flavors of traditional cuisine, accompanied by the region's finest wines. The city's restaurants have become a haven for food enthusiasts, providing a memorable dining experience that perfectly complements the surrounding beauty.
Art and culture thrive in Pula, as evidenced by its many museums and galleries. These cultural institutions showcase the city's rich heritage through captivating exhibitions and displays. Additionally, Pula hosts a variety of concert events throughout the year, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The city's vibrant nightlife further enhances its allure, with numerous bars and clubs providing entertainment well into the early hours.
Pula is a city that captivates all who visit, offering a wealth of beauty, history, and vibrant energy. Its fascinating past seamlessly intertwines with the present, creating a unique and unforgettable experience for its residents and visitors alike. This renowned city is a testament to the enduring spirit of its people, who have dedicated themselves to preserving and celebrating its extraordinary heritage.
Must See:
Amphitheatre – monument, which was once the site of gladiator fights. It was built in the 1st century AD. The ground plan is elliptical, the longer axis measuring about 130 m and the shorter one about 100 m. It is believed that the Amphitheatre could seat about 20,000 spectators.
Temple of Augustus - The Temple, situated in the Forum, is dedicated to goddess Roma and Emperor Augustus. It was constructed between the year 2 BC and AD 14. Nowadays, it houses a collection of ancient stone and bronze sculptures.
Triumphal Arch of the Sergi - Golden Gate - The “Golden Gate” was erected between the years 29 and 27 BC by the Sergi family to honour of three members of the family who held important positions in Pula at that time.
Gate of Hercules - It stands between two, most probably medieval, towers, simply constructed out of stone blocks that are not carved. At the top of the damaged arch, although hardly recognizable, there is a carving of the head of Hercules and his truncheon.
Twin Gates and City Walls - In ancient and medieval times, the whole city was surrounded by walls and could be entered through about ten gates. The walls had become old and unnecessary so they were pulled down at the beginning of the 19th century. The Twin Gates, thus called because of the two arches through which you enter the inner yard, once the entrance to the city, were constructed between the 2nd and 3rd century.
Forum - The coast where the Forum was constructed in the 1st century BC had to be filled up to gain a larger area. On the northern part of the Forum stood two twin temples and a central one dedicated to Jupiter, Juno and Minerva. Today only the Temple of Augustus has been fully preserved while of the second temple, only the back wall, built into the Communal Palace in the 13th century, is visible.
Small Roman Theatre -On the north-eastern slopes of the central hill of the city, below the Castle, there are the remains of a Roman theatre: in addition to the Amphitheatre, Pula had two other theatres during the Roman period. The larger one, which has not been preserved, was situated outside the city, on the slopes of Zaro hill (Monte Zaro), south of the city walls. The other theatre known as the Small Roman Theatre was situated within the city walls. The remains of the stage, semicircular orchestra and the audience section have all been partly reconstructed.
