The Pula Arena is a nationally significant cultural monument that was built in the 1st century, when Pula was a Roman colony, and when planning a trip there may also be a desire to book a hotel in Pula.
Culture and History
The Galerija Sveta Srca is located in Pula’s old town and is a museum-gallery space operated by the Archaeological Museum of Istria. The Temple of Augustus displays ancient Roman sculptures and reliefs from Pula and its surrounding area. The Historical Museum of Istria is housed in the Kaštel.
The Church and Monastery of St. Francis form a 14th-century monastic complex in Pula. The church was built in 1314 in the late Romanesque style with Gothic decorative details. The Pula Observatory was founded in 1869 as part of the Royal Hydrographical Institute and is Croatia’s oldest astronomical institution.
The PPMI education department organises guided tours, outdoor activities and workshops adapted to all target and age groups. The Archaeological Museum of Istria is also preparing a permanent exhibition on Istrian history from prehistory to the modern era; the opening is planned for late 2026 or early 2027.
Nature
Pula Aquarium is based in Verudela Fortress and presents more than 250 animal species from the Adriatic and the Mediterranean. It operates within the Austro-Hungarian fortification complexes of Verudela and San Giovanni and supports conservation projects for sea turtles and critically endangered noble pen shells.
Lungomare is an approximately four-kilometre-long coastal promenade with pine forests, rocky shores, sea views and access to the Adriatic. Galebove stijene is a natural rocky bathing site with clear seawater, white limestone rocks, pine shade and views of the open Adriatic.
Further Insights
In the underground chamber of the Pula Arena, a permanent exhibition presents ancient Istrian olive growing and viticulture through reconstructed presses, mills and amphorae. The Olei Histriae Museum offers guided tastings by prior reservation, including options with wine and local specialities.
Tunnel 12 of the Zerostrasse, which is open to visitors, is approximately 400 metres long and includes a central hall. The restored Small Roman Theatre serves as a venue for concerts, theatre and performances.
More local pages: Stinjan.
