Pula is a city where the past and present intertwine. Its most iconic landmark is the Arena – a Roman amphitheater from the 1st century AD, built during Emperor Vespasian’s reign, at the same time as Rome’s Colosseum.
The Arena is the sixth largest surviving Roman amphitheater in the world, and Croatia’s most magnificent ancient monument. It once held around 23,000 spectators, with a canvas canopy protecting them from sun and rain. Legend has it the towers contained water tanks and devices to spray scented water – like an early form of 4D entertainment!
In the Middle Ages, the Arena was used for fairs and even knightly tournaments. Thanks to a preservation order from 1458, it still stands today and hosts concerts and cultural events – with no more battles, except for the best seat.