Pula Things to Do

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Every now and then you may actually enter the oldest part of Pula through Triumphal arch of the Sergi, which is somewhat symbolic passage between leafy and easy going 'gardens' of Giardini to the colorful and vibrant, stone paved Sergijevaca street which will eventually lead you to Forum.

The arch was built between 29-27 BC, dedicated to Pula's significant and powerful family of Sergi (and especially to three Sergi brothers), themselves being high ranking officials and soldiers during Roman times for that corner of empire. Beautifully decorated structure symbolizes the conquest at battle of Aticum and it's now one of the town's most inspiring buildings, the gates whose wine relief expresses one of the favourite plants of people of Antiquity and suggests pleasures derived from enjoing it in its fermented and liquid form.

James Joyce sees the gates from a terrace of a cafe next to it and only in the middle of night, these key points of Pula seem little deserted upon still warm stone.

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Liked said before, Sergi's were powerful and high ranking officials in Istria during times of Roman and beside triumphal gates, the main street in old Pula is named upon them; now this is also Pula's busiest promenade, traffic free area, paved with stone, little curved so you cannot see it all straight till the other end, lined by traditional Mediterranean houses, some freshly colored with some Renaissance decoration and other plain simple. It takes some minutes walking between the Arch of Sergi and Forum to take the distance between both ends.

The street hosts loads of souvenir shops, some galleries, fashion shops, sidestreet cafes and small restaurants; stream of people during summer inhabit it at all times from early morning till late in night, but even during the darkest hours it remains illuminated, and for my taste - it's 5 am when the street is the most pleasant, especially if you had been with a nice company and had a good wine till the morning.

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If you're into Ancient history, drop a visit to Augustus temple - impressive Roman era built shrine from 1st century AD as one of the oldest buildings consisting the edge of a Forum. It was originally dedicated to godess Roma and to emperor Augustus, whom reigned in that time and by all logic, it was built in centre of town, at the main square. Exhibited inside are the remaining and well preserved stone sculptures and relieves from that historic period from Istrian archeological sites and with detail worth to study closely. Indeed, a proof of vibrant events and complex societies inhabiting those grounds!

The grand stairs and massive columns of a shrine provide excellent site to sit down on evenings and form here, a little elevated view reveals the actual activity at the square. And when it rains, without umbrella, its roof welcomes you too.

It's indeed tiny museum, but atmospheric one.

Adults pay 10 kuna per ticket and may buy some Pula souvenirs at the reception desk. You may want to have one of those fake amphoras with you, as the real ones are too precious to be sold.

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Best place to buy vegetable, fruit and local food products - though not necessary cheaper than supermarket; but the pleasure of face to face shopping evolves almost into monumental spheres in this square under chestnut trees: the tradition of interaction between a costumer and seller continues from ancient times. These things deserve to live and let's not only stand by side as observants. Let's be part of the action and bring home some of the delicios things of Istria. They're real treasure. Consider some honey, olive oil or jams, but why not also some nice rakija, nuts, maybe dried figs and dried sponges?

Saturdays and noons are best - take a look at organic section that takes place on that particular day for the highest local quality.

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Promoted as the most complete Roman amphitheater, that may only apply to its external walls.

The interior suffered the common transformations of most Croatian monuments, and shows almost nothing of its original structure.

Smaller than its brother, in Rome, it is a magnificent building, deserving the quick mandatory visit.

I can recommend this funny tip only for a reason:
this is the best service I have ever received in Croatia in anything I did!
Edi Kuftic, the owner, picked up my car, did a splendid job on the car interior, did exterior too (didnt ask for it and he didnt charge extra) and then brought the car to me! Unbelieavable service! Hats off for EDI cleaning!
They also do deep cleaning of boats and carpets!

Very nice, comfortable and peaceful place. The best Internet center I've been see. Nice atmosphere, good equipment, reasonable prices and hospitable and friendly service. It was a pleasant surprise to find an internet center that is so nicely organized. Beautifully equipped and air conditioned premises, free juices and sweets, an easygoing atmosphere will make your stay pleasant and unforgettable.

Until going there I only knew one cathedral with the tower separated from the main building - in Leiria.

Now, I know a second one. And that was my most remarkable note about this monument, as usually built-destroyed-rebuilt, sharing stones with other, including the amphitheater.