Pula

Pula is a city in the Istria province of Croatia, considered to be its largest in terms of size. Situated on a hilly part of the peninsula, it has agriculture, fishing, and tourism as its main industries.

Sights & Activities

One notable historic structure in Pula is the Arch of Sergi, or the Triumphal of Sergius. It was built in 1st century AD for the members of the Sergi family who took part in a battle between Romans and Egyptians led by Octavian and Marc Antony, respectively. This Corinthian style landmark stands on the boundary toward the old town.
The 17th century Venetian Fortress was built over the site of the Roman Capitol and houses the Hisotrical Museum of Istria. The museum showcases items related to the military and maritime history of the province. Visitors can explore the castle and climb to the its top floor to take in the spectacular views of the town and the coastline.
Also located within the old town is the Archaeological Museum of Istria, which opened its doors to patrons in 1949. Its displays are composed of prehistoric and ancient items collected from around the city and within the province.
Pula is also the location of the Roman Amphitheater that was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian. It was the site of gladiatorial games and, later on, of tournaments participated by knights. After massive reconstruction, it now serves as venue for public performances and festivals. The amphitheater is considered to be one of the largest in the world.
Another Roman structure still evident in the present day Pula is the Roman Forum, still considered as a popular gathering place in the city. On the northern side of the forum is the Temple of Romae and Augustus, a well-preserved structure that contains several Roman sculptures.
Just like most of the ancient structures in the city, the Pula Cathedral also underwent several reconstructions since it was built in the 5th century. It is officially known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Renaissance façade was added during the 17th century, about the same time the bell tower was also constructed using stones taken from the Roman Amphitheater. Inside the cathedral are beautiful floor mosaics and a Roman sarcophagus altar dating from the 3rd century AD.
Visitors should also head out to the Chapel of St. Mary of Formosa, remnants of the Basilica of St. Mary of Formosa. The structure still bears wonderful mosaics made in the 6th century and is a known venue for art exhibits during the summer season. Some artworks and architectural highlights from the chapel were looted by the Venetians during the 17th century, including the alabaster columns now standing at the St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice.
Other religious structures worth visiting in Pula include the Romanesque-styled Church of St. Francis and the Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas. The former bears a 15th century wooden triptych in its altar while the latter houses several icons dating back from the 15th to the 16th centuries.

Weather

Pula enjoys a mild climate, with summer rarely going hot and with winter temperature now falling below 5°C. There are also no extreme weather changes during spring and autumn. This makes Pula such a pleasant place to explore in any time of the year.