Trek Goat Trek Goat
  • About
  • Stories

    • Stories

    Things to do in Pula, the biggest Istrian townis a lush Roman heritage

    By Zdravko R. Ā· February 16, 2022

    At first glance, modern Pula, located in the south of the Istrian peninsula, is moreweran ancient city with a rich past and preserved ancient monuments.

    If travelling to Pula, the first thing one will probably mention is a Roman Amphitheater (Arena). Besides this most recognizable monument, Pula, the largest Istrian city, has many things for travellers to find out: historically, culturally and gastronomical.

    With the various historical features on its streets, Pula Old City the biggest one in the Istrian peninsula remains ancient and stone-paved. Pula is very south of the peninsula of Istria. Though it seems to be a port city at a glance, the visitor will soon find out a town with rich and preserved antique monuments and cultural heritage.

    Travelling to Pula meansā€¦ discoveringstories from the Roman past

    For me, Pula is the place where nature and history with the Antique Old Town and Roman roads are all in together. Besides having the most prominent Archaeological Museum in Istria, their areas. So many hidden spots I recommend stopping by. Such for instance, look to the ā€œCity marketā€ ā€“ a site where every day could be found something new, the fish market or take a walk alongside Giardini. All of it will offer the chance to expire Pula like a local. e

    And it is no wonder Pula is one of the most immeasurable places in Istria. This city is pure seaside bliss surrounded by beautiful beaches, forests and rocky coast at the same time! Even if You usually try to escape touristy places like me, Pula is just too valuable to exclude from your Croatian itinerary. The historians and all the ancient places seekers Pula will enchant and attract to stop by! Here we prepared some of the ideas that s see in this article and the full list of things to do in Pula.

    How to explore Roman Pula?

    Pula offers many things for travellers who want to learn more about the roots of the largest city on the Istrian peninsula ā€“ historically, culturally and artistically. And it is precisely these roots that go back to the ancient times of Rome that make Pula recognizable. The streets of Pula are rich in antiquities. If we want to get an idea of what the city looked like 2000 years ago, we need to walk through the ā€œRoman Pulaā€œ.

    Even if you thought of trying to avoid Pula as a major tourist destination, Pula is simply too valuable to be excluded from the itinerary of touring Istria! Yes, Pula is truly a discovery. It will enchant many, not only historians and lovers of ancient places but also everyday nomads.

    Visit the Roman amphitheatre, Arena Pula

    Arena, the Roman amphitheatre (Colosseum), is without a doubt the most famous attraction in Pula. Visible from the air, from the sea and from land, it dominates the city centre. Just as the one in Rome is a symbol of Rome, the Arena, with more than 2,000 years of age, represents Pula. The walls of the arena are visible from almost anywhere in the city. It is therefore an ideal starting and ending point for city tours. Though the amphitheatre is much smaller than the one in Rome, it is still considered the sixth-largest in the world. Despite several attempts to destroy it, it is well preserved and almost intact today. Compared to more than 200 Roman amphitheatres, the layout of the Pula amphitheatre with 4 staircases is the best technological achievement of its kind in Istria and is considered the best-preserved ancient monument in Croatia.

    The amphitheatre, built in the 1st century BC, with a capacity of over 26,000 spectators, is one of the main points of cultural events and festivals, especially during the summer. The Pula Summer Festival, which takes place during July and August, is characterized by a series of concerts of various genres. They present the best domestic and foreign artists. Nevertheless, the event by which the arena becomes world-renowned is the Pula Film Festival. The oldest Croatian film festival has been held in July / August since 1954. Screenings are open to the public, and the festival awards prizes for domestic and foreign films, entitled ā€ Golden Arenas ā€œ.

    Step through Hercules and the Double Gate

    Near the Arena, we will discover two of the once twelve gates: seven from the sea and five from the mainland. The Gate of Hercules (Italian: Porta Ercole, S. Stefano ) is seems to be the oldest Roman monument in Pula. Very simple in shape, they were built during the transition from the 2nd to the 3rd century. They consist of an arched opening composed of simple stone blocks. Herculesā€™ head is carved on the top of the arch. It recognizes curly hair, beards and batons, once a trademark of the city. The smaller number of decorations on the monument indicates the weaker strategic importance of the entrance.

    The Double Gate (Italian: Porta Gemina or S. Caterina ) dating back to the same period (2nd ā€“ 3rd century) was named after the semicircular openings leading to the city. Tile with the name LucijaMenacijaPriskusa, a city councillor and senator, who donated the construction of one of the cityā€™s waterworks, was found next door. Today it is a part of them.

    Take a look at the Roman Theatre

    In the 1st century, Pula had two theatres: a large theatre that could accommodate about 4,000 to 5,000 visitors and a small one. The 85-meter-long and 120-meter-wide Grand Theater were located outside the city walls, on the slopes of Monte Zaro. A theater faƧade seems to be not visible today. It can be assumed however that, like other theatres, it had mast holders in the upper part that held ropes to stretch the canvas cover over the auditorium. The remains of this theatre can be seen on some of the other buildings in Pula. During the Middle Ages, parts of the theatre were used, for example, to build the Venetian fortress.

    The small theatre, which has largely preserved the auditorium and building, could accommodate about 2,000 visitors. The Double Gate were the entrance of the theatre. Parts of the relief and candlesticks of the smaller theatre are kept today in the Archaeological Museum of Istria in Pula.

    Stroll Augustus Temple and Roman Forum

    The temple built between the 2nd and 14th years dedicated to the Roma goddess, protector of Rome and Emperor Augustus is the famous Temple of Augustus. It is one of the 3 temples that once stood on the main Roman square ā€“ ā€ Forumā€œ. In the middle was a temple dedicated to Jupiter, Juna and Minerva, around it, next to Augustus, was Dianaā€™s temple.

    Today, the preserved monument with a height of 17 meters is one of the most beautiful examples of Roman sacral architecture. The tops of the pillars, made of smooth marble and Corinthian-style capitals, reveal late Hellenistic art. Decorations of leaves and wreaths with motifs of vines, birds and animals are visible. During the Middle Ages, the temple was used as a font, ie a storehouse of grain. It lasted in its original form until 1944 when it was damaged during the bombing of Pula. With later reconstruction, it is used today as a lapidary.

    Walk across the ā€œGolden Gateā€ ā€“ Arch of Sergius

    Although in Roman times gates and arches were built during the time of the emperors, the Arch of Sergius was very likely built inhonour of the Sergius family from Pula.  Salvia Postuma erected the fate, after the death of three patricians, as a symbolic character. She made it in honour after Lucius Sergius Lepidus. He served the Ninth Legion and took part in the Battle of Actium.

    The Arc de Triomphe, the former Roman entrance to the city, will take us to the central and probably one of the busiest streets in Pula. ā€œSergejeva Streetā€ has become also known as ā€œVia Sergiaā€œ, ā€œCorzoā€ and ā€œPrvomajska Streetā€.

    Admire the mosaic of punishing the Dirk

    A mosaic dating back to the 3rd century depicts a scene from the mythological story of punishing Dirk who out of jealousy tortured their mother Antiope, to a rabid bull). One of the preserved ancient mosaics in the world was found in the block of buildings of the chapel of St. Mary during World War II. It is interesting to note that the measured altitude of the houses was two meters below compared to todayā€™s buildings.

    Bonus things to do in Pula: learn about the Austro-Hungarian navy and the medieval monuments

    Since Pula was an important seaport during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, especially during the First World War, many legacies of that time are visible today. One of the places where it is possible to learn about the Austro-Hungarian significance is the memorial museum where there is a memorial room of the Imperial and Royal Navy with an exhibition about the Austro-Hungarian Navy in Pula. In addition, in Pula, we see monuments of medieval heritage, especially Venetian.

    Naval Cemetery and Church

    The 22,000-square-meter cemetery, with about 150,000 graves, is a monument to mostly Austro-Hungarian, German and Italian soldiers killed during the First and Second World Wars and their family members. It is located in Stoja, the southwestern part of the city. The engraved names of sailors and entire crews of sunken ships are visible, including Baron Gautsch and St. John.

    Not far from the cemetery is the neo-Romanesque Church of Our Lady of the Sea from the 19th century. It was built for the Austro-Hungarian Navy. The church has a very similar architecture of walls with interchangeable stone rows. The 28-meter-high bell tower has a statue of an angel.

    Pula City Market

    The wonderful building from the time of the Austro-Hungarian Empire is located on Flanatička Street. The interior, which has served as a city market since 1903, still has its initial function today. Apart from being a frequent motif on postcards, the market, as in most other coastal cities, is a lively meeting place. It sells almost everything: from local agricultural products, and fruit and vegetable stand to meat and food.

    I often like to visit the fish market in the interior, with really many choices of fresh Adriatic fish. Find your favourite fish and run back to your accommodation in Pula to make a real lunch. You just need to choose what kind of fish you want and how to prepare it. Maybe on the grill?

    City Hall

    The imposing building from 1296, during Venetian rule, today serves as the city administration office. With several renovations throughout history, it has taken on more architectural styles, from Romanesque and Gothic to the Renaissance.

    Venetian fort

    The Venetian fortress is the highest point in the city whose main purpose was to defend the city and the port. The same was the only reason for building the fortification in 1632. The fortress with four pentagonal bastions was built of stones from the abandoned ā€œRoman Theaterā€œ.

    Uljanik Shipyard

    Ever since Emperor Franz Joseph I laid the foundation stone for the construction of the shipyard in 1856 and the first ship was launched in 1858, it has also become one of the cityā€™s symbols. The Uljanik shipyard got recognizable by its cranes. Those has furthermore marked an important role not only for the city but for the whole of Istria. Some of the ships produced in it were some of the largest in the world. Have you ever heard the story of the ships ā€œBerge Istraā€ or ā€œBerge Vangaā€œ? A Historical Museum of Istria has a sotry about them. The museum, located in the heart of Pulaā€™s old town, has been located since 1961. in an adapted Venetian fort. It has various collections from Istria from the High Middle Ages to recent history.

    Pula churches

    The fact Pula is ancient and cultural one will mention to look out the churches. Those are in particular old. Stop by and visit some of them.

    Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary

    The cathedral located near the sea, not far from the shipyard, dates from the 6th century. The bell tower, built of stone blocks of the Arena, was added in the 18th century. The facade of the church dates from the 16th century. The well-preserved interior reveals wall frescoes and floor mosaics.

    Church of St. Anthony Padua

    The church with a 45-meter-high bell tower is located next to the Arena, on the southeast side and dates from 1931. The bell tower was completed before the feast of St. Anthony in 1932 and was planned to be lower, but the Franciscans wanted him to be seen from every part of the city. At the top of the bell tower is a statue of St. Anthony, who was appointed on June 9, 1932.

    St. Nicholas Church

    The 6th-century church in the centre of the city is an Orthodox church with a typical Ravenna polygonal apse. The interior is guarded by a valuable wooden iconostasis by the Greek master Batos. The imposing atrium dates from the 18th century and the bell tower added is attributed to the 13th century.

    Church of Our Lady of Mercy

    The Church of Our Lady of Mercy is located near the post office, in the old city centre, and dates from 1389. It has 3 altars and a bell tower with one bell.

    Pula Museums

    Pula is ancient but still adapted to modern times. With its (until recently) symbol of shipbuilding, it was recognizable in the world, and the Arena as its trademark makes world postcards.

    Let Pula show you what she has preserved for the last 3,000 years. And if that mission could be completely successful, it is necessary to peek into its museums and galleries. If you have the opportunity, be sure to do so. You will love it! Pula is the biggest Istrian city of culture. It has many interesting galleries and museums that are valuable to visit. Here we prepared a shortlist of some of them.

    Learn about Istria at Pula Archaeological Museum

    If you are in Pula for more than a few days and are interested in the history of Istria, be sure to visit the museum.  In addition to the findings of the whole of Istria, today the museum has an archaeological department. From prehistory, and antiquity, through the Middle Ages to modern and others, the museum will discover collections of artefacts related to archaeological sites and monuments, but also Istria. Although it officially began operating as the ā€œArchaeological Museum of Istriaā€ in 1947, it is believed to have existed since 1802. Then the French Marshall Marmont founded the first museum collection of monuments in the Temple of Augustus.

    Likewise, the discovery of the Nesactium artefacts contributed to the growth of museum foundations. A very important fact in the creation was the merger with the ā€ Poreč City Museumā€, in 1902. Thus, it grew into an institution of regional character, which in 1925 became known as the ā€œRoyal Museum of Istriaā€. (Regio Museo dellā€™Istria).

    Museum of Contemporary Art of Istria

    Art lovers will enjoy this museum that collects art created in the second half of the last century until recent artistsā€™ latest work. Showing an open meeting place of multiculturalism as a leading cultural and art institution of Istrian artists is ideal for taking some time in it.

    Museum OleiHistriae ā€“ The House of Istrian Olive Oil

    A museum in a very Pula centre is with a particular feature.  The House of Istrian Olive Oil shows the story of olive growing in Istria through history up to the present day. Youā€™ll learn about the significance of Istrian extra virgin olive oil and how olive oil, combined with the Mediterranean diet affects our health. You can discover all the aromas and tastes, but what inspired me the most are the ancient Roman processed olive oil methods.

    Memo Museum ā€” Museum of everyday life and good memories

    This newly opened MEMO Museum, situated in the Arena vicinity, shows everyday life and good memories. The retro lovers will enjoy the memories of good old times, presented through an interactive multimedia display, beginning of the 50s to the end of the 80s.

    Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria

    Situated on the Pula highest, at an altitude of 32.4 m, between the sea and the hills Arena, the adapted Venetian fortification that houses 1961 the Historical Museum of Istria is a sight by itself. The Museum of the Revolution on December 31, 1955, was founded in it. The museum presently named Historical Museum of Istria is the national and universal heritage, from the High Middle Ages until the recent history showing the various collection of Istria from the High Middle Ages until the recent past. Regarding the recommendations, the museum is worth a visit. Local tip: donā€™t miss taking beautiful photos of Pula harbour while you are there on the fort!

    Local tip: have a look Memorial Room of the Imperial and Royal Navy. Since Pula had an immense significance in defence during the Austro-Hungarian times, especially by the sea, this memorial museum is sure one evidence of that time. It hosts the Memorial Room of the Imperial and Royal Navy /K. u. k. Marine/ with an exhibition on the Austro-Hungarian Navy in Pula.

    Museum ā€“ Gallery ā€œSacred Hearts

    This newly renovated Museum and Gallery Center ā€œSveta Srcaā€ is situated in the one-time Church of the Sacred Hearts on KaÅ”tel. The hill dominating the city is a favourite spot of locals since there are concerts and lectures held. Itā€™s an exciting gallery.

    So here we listed only a few of the most famous museums in Pula. There are sure the other ones and the galleries, and youā€™ll find some of that you like.

    Pula outdoor

    Due to the mild Mediterranean climate and various sports infrastructure, Pula is the ideal destination to spend an active holiday for almost all of the year. Several sports centres provide quality sports equipment for plenty of sports such as diving, windsurfing or sailing.

    Pula Outdoor activity list

    Cycling Tip: Take a bicycle drive along Punta Verudela and visit Aquarium

    In the south of the town lies Punta Verudela, a tourist complex of hotels with a promenade and cycling star. Walk along Verudela by foot around the hotelā€™s zone along to the sea or take a bicycle ride. Verudela is a perfect vacation spot also for those who like activities nearby the sea. Look it further and find the Aquarium situated in the old Austro-Hungarian Fort of Verudela.

    Daily trips from Pula

    So, here we listed some of the few trips that you make from Pula. However, if you are interested in seeing more of Istria, sure it is possible, and we presented it in our article, but youā€™ll need time.

    National park Brijuni

    The trip to Brijuni islands situated across from Fažana which is only 15 min distant from Pula, is a must-do. Trough history, Brijuni as a simple island of beauty, surrounded by nature but also full of historical heritage, was known to be a popular vacation spot. The Brijuni islands are found along the southwestern coast of Istria and they cover an area of 2,700 acres.

    The area was proclaimed a ā€œnational parkā€ in 1983. Your trip to Brijuni will include the guided tour of VelikiBrijun. The biggest of 14 pearl islands in the group offers an extraordinary mix of natural beauty, meadows, Mediterranean plants and rich heritage. VeliBrijun is the island of famous persons; itā€™s the home of the zoo park and the island of the piece at the same time. Getting to Brijuni from Pula:

    By Boat: The trip boats from Pula harbour will take you to VelikiBrijun island.

    By Bus.  You can take a bus from Pula to Fažana (line 21). The journey lasts approx. Thirty minutes and once you get there, get on a catamaran which regularly runs to VelikiBrijuni.

    By car. Drive till Fažana a left vehicle there. Bear in mind parking in Fažana is not cheap. Check our post on Brijuni, what to do, and how to get there if you are interested in further details.

    Kamenjak Cape and Seascape

    Lying in the Istrian peninsulaā€™s southernmost point, a Premantura is one of the most beautiful natural sights crucial for Pula and the whole region. Kamenjak Cape is a protected natural park with magnificent and stunning expansive landscapes. Its 30-kilometre-long coast consists of plenty of beautiful picturesque small bays, various pebble and rocky beaches and islands, and itā€™s perfect for those who seek relaxation in outdoor activities.

    If you tend to avoid crowds, youā€™ll find some quiet point in it. Though the coast is mostly rocky with flat rocks, there are a few sandy beaches. The area is also trendy for trekkers, trail runners and scuba diving.  Because of its rich underwater world, the Kamenjak horn is an attractive spot destination. It attracts local and international scuba and snorkelling divers. Hot to get there:

    Mali LoŔinj

    This Kvarner Island, situated opposite and south of the Istrian Peninsula, is known to be a ā€œhealing aromatherapy tourism spotā€, all the way back in the 19th century. And not to mention that there are over 1000 species of aromatic herbs that grow on this island. Here are the possibilities for how to come there:

    Vižula

    The history fanatics will enjoy visiting this archaeological park settled next to Medulin. The park inhabited during the Neolithic period is today with the Roman House. A country dwelling dating back to the 1st and the 2nd century was residential for noblemen and the Emperorā€™s families. Its construction persisted in three phases until the 6th century.

    Punta Christo Fort

    Located on a tiny peninsula at 45 meters above sea level, the Punta Christo fort is a well-preserved example of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy architecture. It was built at the end of the 19th century. Its primary aim was to defend the City of Pula, their main naval port. Pula port was with a significant role during the Austro Hungarian period but also during WWI.

    Since Punta Christo Fort was built on the strategic position that allows controlling all the entries to the port, today it offers a breathtaking view of the Bay of Pulaā€™s entrance. The National Park Islands Brijuni could be seen on the other side. A deep ditch surrounds the fortress, and three wickets are leading to the fort. The defence has as many as 270 spaces, covering an area of over 10,000 m2. This magnificent structure fort is distant about 15 minutes drive from Pula:

    Poreč

    Located in the heart of the Istrian peninsulaā€™s western coast lies Poreč, a city that is almost 2000 years old and big in rich culture and history. The main attraction is the Euphrasian basilica, dedicated to the bishop from the 6th century. The historians will not want to miss visiting Gothic and Romanic houses and the remains of Neptuneā€™s Temple. Poreč from Pula:

    Rovinj

    Rovinj is an excellent choice for all of you who want to visit a peaceful, small town to relax and get away from crowded big cities. The Old Town with the cobblestone streets is called ā€œLittle Veniceā€, full of picturesque old houses dating from the 1700s and the coastal Mediterranean atmosphere, in one of the top destinations in the Mediterranean. Getting to Rovinj from Pula:

    Fratarski Island Veruda

    We know that the Brijuni archipelago is something must do in tourist brochures. One couldnā€™t compare it with any other in Istria. Still, the thing which will blow you is the tiny island Veruda located next to Pula. Due to Franciscan observant monastery, the island has become known as Fratarski Island as the locals used to call it. Namely, the Franciscan province of Zadar founded there a monastery of St. Mary in the 18th century. Mary was imprisoned in 1806 during Napoleonā€™s reign.

    If youā€™re looking for a small and charming coastal paradise, then is the island with lush Medditerenian vegetation as a pine tree the right point you should go to! The island on the outskirts of Pula lying in the bay of the same name has became famed after the site of an international program of scouts. They regularly visit it.

    You can put a tent in the shadow of the pine trees and enjoy your coastal day. A boat line (10 min) connects the island. Staying on the island is especially suitable for groups of divers, giving beautiful spots.

    Pula beaches

    Due to the diverse coastline, Pula has a fantastic selection of beaches, located in the cityā€™s vicinity. During the summer heating, One could find nearby of them someplace in the shadow spot.

    The good fact is that sea quality is controlled from May till the end of September. All of them are marked with the Blue Flag, an international mark of the high-quality sea, and a clean shore. If you look at some of the beaches in Pula and nearby here is the list of them.

    Valkane Beach

    Itā€™s the pebble beach situated in one of the most beautiful bays in Pula. The beautiful promenade used to call ā€œLungo mareā€ by locals leads from this bay to the Valsaline bay. Since plenty of parties used to be held during the summer months, Valkane bay is popular among the younger population.

    ZlatneStijene Beach

    ZlatneStijene is the beach which, just as the name suggests (meaning golden cliffs in Croatian) is situated on the southern part of Pula under Horizont apartments. The beach facilities such as showers, pedals, rent a bike, deck chairs and plenty of restaurants are situated on the beach.

    PjeŔčana Uvala Beach

    PjeŔčana Uvala is another beach whose name (meaning sandy beach in Croatian) suggests its type. Even though it is a sandy beach, for the most part, this is a pebble beach. Numerous facilities include showers, coffee bars, rent deck chairs and pedals.  

    Stoja Beach

    Situated in the southern part of Pula near the shopping centre, Stoja beach is one of the favourite beaches. The beach is easy to reach while the bus from the centre of Pula will take you right there. Also, the most beautiful beach in Pula is mostly rocky. The eponymous peninsula is also the location of the well-known camp. 

    Verudela Beaches

    A few of the most attractive beaches of Pula Ambrella, Havajka and Histria are located in the also famous tourist zone, Verudela. Ambrella is a sandy beach located at the Verudela entrance. With easy access to the sea suitable for families with children, Havajka is a pebble beach situated right in the Park Plaza Arena hotel. Keep in mind that Havajka is more is a bit away from the parking lot entrance, and high cliffs surround it. A tip for solo travellers and adventurists seeking to make good images is to visit Havajka. The beach is also suitable for families because it has shallow waters. Histria beach is located under a hotel that held the same name. The beach is half rocky.

    Like some others in Pula, Al the beaches are awarded a Blue Flag because of their high-quality seawater. There are beach facilities in Verudela such as a beach volleyball court, tennis court, squash court, chairs and umbrellas available for rent, and changing rooms and showers. One could find plenty of bars and restaurants in the area.

    Pula shopping

    Besides the City Market, Pula has various shopping possibilities. You can just stroll Sergius Street, home to numerous shops, boutiques, restaurants and cafes. Take your time to explore them and do some shopping in them. There are few big ā€œwestern shoppingā€ centres in Pula such as ā€œPula City Mallā€ or ā€œMax City Stojaā€ with plenty of boutiques, bars, shops and restaurants. So if you have planned to go shopping, but you are also fun of heritage itā€™s a good idea to merge these activities.

    Getting to Pula