Pula Croatia

"Home of the Arena"

PULA, CROATIA

Pula is world famous for its spectacular Roman Amphitheater called the ‘Arena’, which during the Roman Empire could seat 26,000 spectators.

The Pula ‘Arena’ is the sixth largest Roman amphitheater in the world and one of the best preserved. Legend has it that it was built by Emperor Vespasian on the initiative of his Pula-born girlfriend Cenida.

In its day spectators could watch gladiatorial fights as part of the state policy ‘panem et circenses’ ("bread and games") which were meant to divert the attention of common people from their everyday woes.

ROMAN PULA

According to legend, Pula was founded by the Colchians, who supposedly weighed anchor at the tip of the Istrian Peninsula during their unsuccessful attempt to recapture the Golden Fleece from Jason and the Argonauts. More likely, Illyrian tribesmen established the settlement that the Romans conquered in 177 BC and subsequently made Istria’s main port, as it has remained ever since. As well as establishing a city-plan whose overall structure (right down to the Forum) remains visible to this day, the Romans built the city’s incongruously grandiose amphitheater....(Read more by Owen Lipsett)

Looking for a nice play to stay while visiting Pula?

For your convenience, we've selected what we believe to be two of your best value options for choosing accommodation in Pula, Croatia. From the best hotels to budget accommodation - no booking and no cancellation fees!

PULA HOTELS

PULA BUDGET ACCOMMODATION & HOSTELS

If you're a student, backpacker or traveler looking for budget accommodation in Pula, Croatia , you have the option of choosing from a selection of hostels and private accommodation - NO BOOKING FEES!

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PULA FILM FESTIVAL

These days you can divert you attention from your everyday woes by checking out the Pula Film Festival (every July), which has taken place in the Arena since 1954.

Arriving at the amphitheater and watching a movie under a starry sky is a happening in itself. This has got to be the most beautiful cinema on earth!

For the duration of the Festival the Arena has a capacity of 5,000 to 8,000 seats becoming one of the largest cinemas in the world.

PULA'S LOCAL SIGHTS

During the hot summer days you can head out to Verudela peninsula 2km south of the town centre and work on your tan at the many rocky beaches.

You can also rent a yacht and sail the nearby Brijuni Islands which is part of the Brijuni National Park.