Pula: the jewel of Istria with a fascinating history

Pula, also known as Pola, is a picturesque town in the western part of Croatia, located on the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula on the Adriatic Sea. With a population of 57,460 in 2011, Pula entices not only with its population, but also with its rich history, picturesque location and diverse economy.

Geography: hills, sea and sunshine

Pula is picturesquely situated on seven hills, surrounded by a deep bay and small islands such as Sv. Jerolim and Kozad. Located in a deep bay, the city offers both sea views and intimate places to relax. The Mediterranean climate adds to the charm, with temperatures of 6.1°C in February and a staggering 26.4°C in July and August.

Economic diversity: industry and the rhythm of life

Economic diversity: industry and the rhythm of life The city thrives on a variety of economic sectors, including shipbuilding, food, machinery, cement, glass, match and shoe industries. It’s a place where tradition and modernity come together to create an economic landscape.

A rich history: from ancient Rome to today

The history of Pula dates back to the earliest days of the ancient world, when the area was inhabited by the Illyrians. However, from 177 BC, Pula became part of the Roman Empire, ushering in its heyday. The legacy of this period survives in the form of impressive buildings such as the amphitheater, the triumphal arch and the temple of Augustus.

The city, after many transformations under Byzantine rule, the Venetian Republic and even during epidemics, was reborn in the 19th century. Pula became a strategic port, an Austro-Hungarian naval base and an important industrial center.

Monuments, culture, the future

Pula is not only the past, but also a pulsating cultural life. Monuments such as the impressive amphitheater, the Forum from the Roman Empire and the temple of Augustus attract visitors. The city is also not forgetting the future, developing as a dynamic economic and cultural center.

Pula, with its numerous historical monuments and modern pulsating life, is a jewel of Istria worth discovering. History, nature and the present day are intertwined here in a fascinating story about one of the most beautiful corners of Croatia.