Amphitheater of Pula
Istarska županija
The Amphitheater of Pula, also known as Pulska Arena or locally as Divić-grad, stands as the largest and most well-preserved monument of ancient architecture in Croatia. Constructed in the 1st century AD during the Roman era when Pula was known as Colonia Pietas Iulia Pola, it ranks sixth in size among Roman amphitheaters worldwide. This elliptical structure measures approximately 132.45 meters in length and 105.10 meters in width, with a height reaching up to 32 meters on the sea-facing side. Remarkably, it is the only Roman amphitheater in the world to have all three architectural orders fully preserved. The amphitheater's outer walls, built from local limestone transported via the sea, feature large semicircular openings and four stair towers equipped with water reservoirs and devices that sprayed scented water to enhance spectator comfort. The arena could hold around 23,000 spectators who gathered to watch gladiatorial contests, beast hunts, and other spectacles, with the central arena floor covered in sand (from the Latin "harena") to absorb blood and provide footing. Beneath the arena were underground chambers and corridors used for staging and animal holding, connected by a sophisticated system of tunnels and drainage. The amphitheater's architectural and engineering features, including the supports for the velarium (a retractable awning), make it a unique example of Roman construction techniques. Today, the Amphitheater of Pula remains a vibrant cultural venue hosting concerts and events, bridging its ancient heritage with contemporary culture.
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Tip: Visitors should consider arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Tickets can be purchased online in advance to skip lines, and partial accessibility is available for wheelchair users. The arena also hosts various concerts and cultural events during summer months, offering a unique experience beyond traditional sightseeing.
Interesting facts
- •The Amphitheater of Pula is the sixth largest Roman amphitheater in the world.
- •It is the only Roman amphitheater with all three classical architectural orders fully preserved.
- •The arena could accommodate approximately 23,000 spectators in ancient times.
- •The outer walls were built from local limestone transported by sea from nearby quarries known as Cave Romane.
- •Four towers on the outer façade housed water reservoirs and devices to spray scented water over the audience.
- •The name 'arena' derives from the Latin word 'harena', meaning sand, which covered the central fighting area to absorb blood.
History
The Amphitheater of Pula was constructed in the 1st century AD as a major Roman entertainment venue during the period when Pula was a Roman colony called Colonia Pietas Iulia Pola.
Over the centuries, it has remained remarkably intact, with its outer walls and architectural orders preserved better than most other Roman amphitheaters.
The structure underwent various modifications, including the addition of stair towers and water systems to improve spectator comfort.
Despite its cultural significance, the amphitheater has not yet been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, although Croatia has twice nominated it for inclusion.
Its preservation allows for the study of ancient construction methods and Roman architectural innovation.
Place Guide
Outer Wall and Towers1st century AD
The massive outer wall of the amphitheater features large semicircular openings and four stair towers. Each tower contained two water reservoirs and mechanisms to spray scented water over spectators, a rare feature among Roman amphitheaters.
Arena Floor1st century AD
The central elliptical arena floor, measuring 67.90 by 41.60 meters, was covered with sand to absorb blood from gladiatorial games and animal fights. It was separated from the seating area by a narrow channel covered with stone slabs.
Underground Chambers and Corridors1st century AD
Beneath the arena were vaulted chambers supported by pillars, housing devices for staging and rooms for holding wild animals. A system of tunnels connected these spaces, including a passage likely linking to a gladiators' building nearby.
Seating Area (Cavea)1st century AD
The seating area expanded above the arena in concentric elliptical rows of stone seats, accommodating about 23,000 spectators. Staircases connected the tiers, and the seating was once covered by a velarium, a large awning to protect spectators from sun and rain.
Contact
Phone: 052 219 028
