Pula

The Arch of Sergius (also referred to as the Golden Gate of Pula) commemorates the Sergii, one of the most influential families in the early Roman colony. The arch stood behind the original naval gate of the city and was paid for by the wife of Lepidus, Salvia Postuma. Their names are carved in the stone along with Lucius Sergius and Gaius Sergius. In its original form, statues of the two elders flanked Lepidus on both sides on the top of the arch.

This ancient religious edifice is formed of an eclectic mix of architectural styles, reflecting the many changes it has undergone in its lengthy history. You can still see some of the 4th century remains on the outside of the church, from a time when the area was used as a refuge by Christians in times of persecution.

The main entrance to the Archaeological Museum of Istria (Arheoloski Muzej Istre) is actually one of the original gates that served as an entry point into the old Roman town. The museum carries a fascinating range of archaeological artefacts from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages from the region. You will find architectural highlights on the ground floor, Neolithic and Roman era finds on the first floor, Roman antiquities and medieval period artefacts on the second floor. Due to reconstruction works, closed during 2018 and beginning 2019.

Built during the reign of Emperor Vespasian in the 1st century AD, for an audience of 22,000, Pula’s three-storey Roman amphitheatre is one of the best preserved in the world and the sixth largest in existence. Every year, the arena plays host to Pula’s annual summer festival which brings in famous names from across the globe.