Discover City of Pula

The beautiful, interesting and 3000-year-old town of Pula is located on the southwestern part of the Istrian peninsula. Interestingly, the Greek word „Polai“ in translation actually means the city of fugitives; and the myth tells of the Argonauts who searched for a hiding place during the escape with a magical golden fleece. Pula is city of long tradition dominated by the Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. 

Since Roman times, Pula has been the cultural center of Istria. Known for its long tradition of winemaking, fishing, tourism and shipbuilding and numerous preserved ancient Roman buildings. Pula’s Arena is the famous amphitheatre from the first century, one of the world’s best-preserved amphitheatres. It used to host bloody gladiator fights that could be seen by up to 20,000 spectators. Today it hosts numerous music events, concerts, and among them the most famous is Pula Film Festival. (Entrance fee for Arena is 10€ for adults and 5€ for children)

The forum is the main square in Pula and was once the core of all events and city life. It dates back to the first century and was the centre of commercial, religious, administrative and legislative life. Today, the square is the center of administrative life in Pula. In the summer and winter months, various culture and gastro events are held there. At the Forum Square there is a Temple of Augustus dedicated to the goddess Roma and Emperor Augustus. It was built around first century. Today it contains a smaller exhibition of ancient culture made of stone and bronze.

In the center of Portarate Square are the famous Golden Gate or Arch of the Sergii, which are a visible example of late Roman construction. It was built at the end of the first century in memory of three members of the Sergii;  Lucio Sergio, Lucio Sergio Lepid and Gnei Sergio. 

For detailed map of Pula with all attractions please CLICK HERE. 

It is important to mention some important monuments like the Double Gate(free), Fort Verudela (free), Kaštel Castle (3€ ticket), Underground tunnels Zerostrasse (6€ ticket), Pula’s Cathedral (1€ ticket), Church and monastery of St. Peter (free), a small Roman theatre and many other historical and cultural monuments located in Pula and its surroundings. Many museums and galleries are open to the public where visitors can learn a little more about Pula’s history.  

Pula is also mentioned in the masterpiece Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri, who also visited Pula. In center there is also a statue dedicated to Irish writer James Joyce, who in his youth spent a couple of months in Pula teaching English to students. 

In the Bay of Pula island St. Katarina is located. It is located in front of the small island Andrew and Monumenti bay, and it is connected to the land by a bridge. During Yugoslavia, it was a part of the complex “Monumenti”. The buildings housed naval infantry, landing craft and divers. Today our Marina Polesana is located in this area.