Pula, Croatia: Unveiling the Coastal Charm of Istria

Pula, Croatia:

One of Istria’s handful of impressive coastal towns, historic Pula has one of the main airports on the Istrian peninsula. Therefore, it’s often used as a launching point for travelers looking to enjoy the peninsula, while few people actually stick around and explore Pula itself, which in my opinion is a mistake. Even if you spend half a day, it will be worth it! There is a strong Roman influence in Pula’s history, evidenced by many of the sites I am about to share with you: 

Accommodation:

We personally did not spend the night in Pula and only went for a day trip. If you are looking to stay over night in Pula you can search here to find the best type of accommodation for you:

SITES in Pula: 

Pula Amphitheatere:

Pula’s emblematic Roman Amphitheatre is one of the most complete in the world. The Arena was built in the 1st century AD and was used until the 5th century for gladiatorial fights and other mass spectacles. It’s not just that the three storey-high arched walls and four towers around the perimeter are still standing; Pula’s Arena displays the incredible inner-workings of a Roman amphitheatre in vivid detail.

Did you know they held the ice hockey Winter Classic here in September, 2012. You can see the underground passages used by Gladiators, and the cisterns that channelled perfumed water to the 20,000 spectators. Its remaining outer façade gives you a perfect view of the inside of the arena as well as a direct line of sight out the other side through the open arches, giving a splendid sea view. It stands 29.4 m tall and you can take the best photo of it either at the back up the small hill, or at the front left garden. 

Opening times: July – August 8:00 – 0:00; May – Jun, Sept 8:00 – 21:00; Oct-Apr 8:00 – 19:00

Entrance fee: 40kn for adults, 20 kn for concessions and children

Address: Scalierova ul. 30, 52100, Pula, Croatia

Forum:

Just like in Roman times, Pula’s forum is the city’s main square. So just as it would have witnessed important gatherings two millennia ago, whenever there’s a big event you can be sure something will be happening in the forum.

During the summer there are concerts and other cultural events here, as well as big crowds if the Croatian national football team is taking part in the Euros or World Cup.

It’s also a impressive setting, with other Roman monuments and the renaissance-style city hall providing a fitting sense of ceremony.

Address: Forum b.b., 52100, Pula, Croatia

Temple of Augustus:

Unmissable on the forum is the grand tetrastyle portico of yet another historic building that has been well looked-after.The temple was built during the reign of Augustus, which makes it more than 2,000 years old.

The Temple of Augustus was built in the 2nd century BC and dedicated to Emperor Augustus and the goddess Roma. With gleaming white marble stairs leading up to the porch, the temple has a regal feeling with the 17.3m Corinthia columns as well as he triangular firenz. It’s been used for many different purposes throughout its long history (a temple, a church, and even a granary) and used to be part of a three-building complex. The main central temple is long gone, but the back wall of one of the other structures, The Temple of Diana, survived and incorporated into the Communal Palace.

During WWII, it was hit by a bomb that almost destroyed it. It has been mostly restored to what it was like 2,000 years ago and houses Roman sculptural artifacts. You can take a quick tour of the interior for a small fee (it’s a small space). The Temple of Augustus remains the only surviving part of the original temple triad, a major highlight and one of the best things to do in Pula.

Opening times: Mon – Fri 9:00 – 22:00; Sat – Sun 9:00 – 15:00

Entrance fee: 10kn for adults, 5kn for concessions and children

Address: Forum b.b., 52100, Pula, Croatia

Arch of Sergii:

A slightly older Roman monument is this triumphal arch that was erected to commemorate the powerful Sergii family’s participation in the pivotal Battle of Actium in France. They fought and died in a battle between Octavian’s Roman army and Mark Antony’s Egyptian-Roman army.

It dates to about 30 BC and considering its age is still in good shape. When it was built the arch was a city gate leading up from the naval port.

Carved into the stone are friezes depicting cupids and garlands, and just beneath this you can still make out a relief of a horse-drawn battle chariot.

Address: Flanatička ul. 2, 52100, Pula, Croatia

Cathedral of the Assumption of the Holy Virgin: 

Not far from the Temple of Augustus is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a Roman Catholic Church and co-cathedral of Pula along with Euphrasia Bascilica.

Believed to have built atop the Jupiter Conservator as well as a thermal bath in Roman times, it had become Christian ground since the 4th century AD. The current church is an expansion of the 5th century structure. The baptistery rebuilt in the 17th century after the original was destroyed. The church interior is simplistic and bathed in an eerily green light. It is home to King Solomon of Hungary and St Flora.

Opening times: daily 10:00 – 18:00 except during service

Entrance fee: free

Address: Trg Svetog Tome 2, 52100, Pula, Croatia

Twin Gate

Also called Porta Gemina (because Romans), the Twin Gate were part of the city wall that no longer exists due to the expansion of the town. They were built around 2 or 3 century AD . This is one of the ten gates that allowed people to enter the city.

Address: Carrarina ul. 8, 52100, Pula, Croatia

Punta Christo:

The Punta Christo lighthouse is the smallest lighthouse . It’s not that impressive in my opinion but it does lead you to a beautiful rope bridge. There are plenty of spots to jump in and cool off from the summer heat. The coastline is full of some of the most beautiful water you’ll ever see. 

Old Town: 

Wander the streets and see all the beauty this city has to offer. 

The northern coast of Croatia is often forgotten or passed on for many people who head straight for the southern beaches of Dubronovik, but if you have the time and want to experience some amazing historical landmarks, you cannot skip visiting the coastal gem that is Pula. 

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Trip: July 2021

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