Pula Arena — Attraction in Grad Pula

The amphitheater in Pula or Pula Arena is a magnificent monument of ancient architecture. The Pula amphitheater is placed next to the Colosseum in Rome, the Arena in Verona, the amphitheaters in Pompeii, Nimes and Arles in France and El Jem in Tunisia. The construction of the Arena itself took place in several phases during the 1st century. During the reign of the Flavian dynasty (Vespasian, Titus, Domitian) in the second half of the 1st century, the Arena was further expanded, and the wooden parts were replaced with stone, and the Arena took on its present appearance. The stone for the construction of the amphitheater was delivered to the construction site from the quarry around Pula. The most famous is the Vinkuran quarry, which is still known today as Cave Romane. Extremely geometrically regular structure, it has an elliptical appearance. The center of the amphitheater is a battleground or arena, and it was separated from the spectator area by a 1.16 m wide canal covered with slabs. The arena itself was entered at two main entrances in the direction of its longer axis and at several side entrances. The name arena comes from the Latin, harena = sand, because in Roman times it was sprinkled with sand, which was also sprinkled with traces of blood of people and animals after each fight. The spectator area was located above the arena itself and spread out like an ellipsoidal funnel in concentric stepped rows of stone seats. The space for spectators (cavea) was covered with a canvas or velarium, and could accommodate about 23,000 spectators, who could watch gladiatorial and similar fights and often bloodthirsty scenes with beasts. Today's amphitheater is a wonderful example of magnificent architectural architecture. During the summer months, concerts of famous performers such as Peter Gilmoure, Manu Chao, Sting, Vanessa Mae, Zucchero, Foo Fighters, Andrea Bocelli, Luciano Pavarotti, Parov Stelar , Stjepan Hauser, are held here .... Concerts of classical music, opera and...

Visiting the Arena in Pula is like stepping into a quieter, more intimate version of Rome’s Colosseum — and that’s part of its magic. Built between 27 BC and 68 AD, around the same era as its Roman cousin, Pula’s Arena is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. In fact, it’s the only remaining Roman amphitheater to have all four side towers completely intact.

Unlike the Colosseum in Rome, which rises out of the chaotic energy of Italy’s capital, Pula’s Arena sits just a short stroll from the sparkling Adriatic Sea, surrounded by a slower, more peaceful pace of life. After exploring the Arena, it’s a joy to wander through Pula’s charming streets — narrow, cobblestone lanes lined with pastel-colored houses, bustling cafes, Roman temples, and hidden courtyards. The old town feels like an extension of the Arena itself: a beautiful, lived-in piece of history.

If the Colosseum is a grand, monumental symbol of imperial Rome, the Arena in Pula feels like a hidden treasure — perfectly preserved, steeped in history, and wrapped in the cozy, sun-drenched charm of a Croatian seaside town. Both are unforgettable in their own way. But while Rome may impress you with its sheer scale, Pula will win you over with its intimacy, authenticity, and the way ancient history is woven into the everyday...

The Arena in Pula is an absolute must-see if you’re in Istria, Croatia, or even making a quick trip from Italy. Similar in style to the Colosseum in Rome, it’s one of the most well-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Standing next to it, you truly grasp the scale and magnificence of this architectural marvel.

Beyond just admiring the structure, the real magic happens if you’re lucky enough to catch a show. They host Roman gladiator battles—not just for spectacle, but with well-choreographed, intense fights. The fighters actually engage in combat, blocking attacks, throwing rocks, and playing out the drama of ancient Rome. The audience even gets to participate in deciding the fate of the warriors, adding a thrilling, immersive element.

Sunset at the arena is breathtaking, casting a golden glow over the massive stone structure. And if you can catch a concert here, the experience becomes even more unforgettable—imagine live music reverberating through ancient walls under the open sky.

If you have the chance, visiting the Pula Arena is a no-brainer. Whether for history, entertainment, or just sheer awe, it’s a place that leaves a...