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pula
Pula is the largest city in Istria with approx. 65000 residents. The city lies on and beneath seven hills (Kastel, Zaro, Arena, Sv. Martin, Opatija sv. Mihovila, Mondipola, and Pra Grande), on the inner part of a wide gulf and a naturally well-protected port (depth up to 38 m) open to the northwest with two entrances: from the sea and through Fazana channel. Pula is an excellent starting base for sailing enthusiasts to explore the surrounding natural harbours and beautiful anchorages. Like the rest of the region it is known for its mild climate, tame sea, and unspoiled nature with an average insolation of 2,316 hours per year or 6.3 hours a day, with an average air temperature of 13.2° C (6.1° C in February to 26.4° C in July and August) and sea oscillation from 7 to 26°C. Pula is the town of rich history and culture.
The city's earliest recorded permanent habitation dates back to the 10th century BC. It was founded by the Illyrian tribe of the Histri, an ancient population that lived in Istria. Pula's great position and pleasant climate make it one of the most attractive and popular destinations in Croatia. Visitors can benefit from various attractions this town offers. The town boasts of interesting and wonderfully designed parks with a number of plant species, offering tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. Apart from magnificent historical sites, visitors can enjoy a number of recreational activities and entertainment programs due to various tourist facilities, sports grounds, water sport activities, restaurants, casinos, excursions.
Natural wonders
Brijuni Islands National park:
The main characteristic of the Brijuni archipelago is the extraordinary biological diversity given thanks to its geographical location, its geological base and geomorphology, its diversity of the habitat and its island isolation. Climatically Brijuni are part of the northern Mediterranean type of climate and have all the qualities of the western Istrian coast.
Cultural-Historical Sights
Amphitheatre:
The most famous and important monument, the starting and ending point of every sightseeing tour is the Amphitheatre, popularly called the Arena of Pula, which was once the site of gladiator fights. It was built in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Vespasian. It is believed that the Amphitheatre could seat about 20,000 spectators. Local limestone was used for its construction. In the Middle Ages it was the site of knights tournaments and fairs.
Triumphal Arch of the Sergi - Golden Gate:
The "Golden Gate" was erected between the years 29 and 27 BC by the Sergi family, in honour of three members of the family who held important positions in Pula at that time. The Arch was constructed in Corinthian style with strong Hellenistic and Asia Minor influences both in the method and ornaments.
Floor mosaic "The Punishment of Dirce":
The mosaic covered the floor of a central room of a Roman house, probably from the 3rd century. It has been preserved at the site where it was found, so that the level of house floors in the Roman times, which is 2 m below today's level, is clearly visible.
Twin Gates and City Walls:
The Twin Gates, thus called because of the two arches through which you enter the inner yard, which was once the entrance to the city, were constructed between the 2nd and 3rd centuries. The Twin Gates today lead to the Archaeological Museum and the Castle.
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 when the Emperor died. According to its shape it follows the typical pattern of temples.
Chapel of St. Maria Formosa:
It is one of the two chapels built in the 6th century as part of a large Benedictine abbey demolished in the 16th century. Due to its dimensions, method of construction and good state of preservation, the Chapel represents an extraordinary architectural masterpiece of its time.
