Pula hotels

Hotels in Pula

The largest city along the Istrian peninsula in Croatia, Pula has a long and rich history spanning over 3, 000 years. With a mild climate, clear sea, unspoiled nature, long tradition of winemaking, fishing, shipbuilding and a wealth of historical attractions, it's easy to see why Pula is such a popular destination.

History

The city itself began life around 3, 000 years ago when it was built by Illyrians. However, evidence has been found in the nearby cave of Å andalja, which proves the presence of Homo erectus over one million years ago. Artefacts from the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods have also been discovered.

Pula is probably best known for its many standing Roman buildings. The most famous and popular of these is the first century Roman amphitheatre, one of the six largest Roman arenas still standing in the world. An imposing sight which overlooks the harbour, the arena was built entirely from limestone to host gladiatorial contests, and seated up to 20, 000 spectators.

Music and gladiator fights

These days, however, the arena plays host to the Pula Film Festival, held every summer, as well as various pop and classical music concerts. Once a week the arena holds an evening event called the Spectacvla Antiqva, during which gladiator fights are recreated and workshops involving ancient Roman attire and hairstyles are held, along with the tasting of traditional Roman food and drinks.

Two more Roman structures which should be seen are the Arch of the Sergii, a city gate built around 29-27BC, and the Temple of Augustus. The temple was dedicated to the first Roman emperor Augustus, and was built between 2BC and 14AD. Today it is used as a lapidarium which displays items of Roman sculpture to the public.

The sea

There are many other historical attractions to be seen in the city, but it isn't all about Roman architecture. Pula and its surrounding area also offer 190km of unspoilt coastline, crystal clear sea and beaches to suit everyone. For a kilometre of sand, head for Medulin, about a 40-minute bus ride away.

Travel south along the coastline to discover the Premantura Peninsula, which boasts the protected cape of Kamenjak, home to over 570 plant species. It's also a windsurfer's heaven, and as the area is so rich with fish species, underwater rocks and sunken ships, it's the perfect spot for both scuba diving and snorkelling.

Food and drink

Visit Konoba Batelina in the nearby village of Banjole, where the owner, a fisherman, serves fresh fish in an extremely warm and hospitable environment. Fish-Food More in the city itself is also well-known for serving delicious fresh fish dishes. A well-kept secret is Galeb, known for being the restaurant that serves the best chevapchichi (a long meatball) in the whole city.

Pula is an excellent resort for families with enough beaches, watersports, amazing Roman history, swimming pools, go-kart tracks and sports courts to occupy children for days, and whatever your budget you'll be sure to find the perfect Pula hotel.