Pula is the main city of Istria in Croatia. It is one of the ancient cities of the world, invaded and inhabited by many kingdoms and people, such as Croats, Italian, Romans, and Greeks. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage and an ancient touch to its name. The flavour of Pula can be had under the following:
• Location:
The picturesque city is located right beneath seven hills namely Arena, Kastel, Zaro, Pra Grande, Opatija, Mihovila and Modipola. The Fazana channel marks the entrance of the city. The sea is not rough and the climatic conditions are pleasant. The close proximity to the sea, by itself indicates, that the ports bustle with activity.
• History:
The history of Pula shows that it has been a country, which has passed through the hands of many kingdoms. The city was populated as early as the 10th century. Inhabitants, mainly Romans, established their empire for many years. After their fall, there were many invaders such as Ostrogoths and Venetians. In the later centuries, it was sworn in to the Venetian Republic.
In the 14th 15th and 16th centuries, a Croatian-Hungarian army attacked Pula. After the fall of the Venetian empire, it was included along the French Empire during the First World War. By 1918, it became a part of Italy, only to be ceded by Yugoslavia. Since the fall of Yugoslavia, Pula remained a part of the modern republic of Croatia.
• Architecture:
The city houses the most ancient Roman architecture. The most noted of all, however is the Arena or the Amphitheatre, wherein the entertainment for the people had taken place. The maintenance of the structure is always kept upto the mark.
The other significant structures are the Temple of Rome built by the Emperor Augustus and The Arch of Sergii. The essence of the Roman art and architecture are still retained in the streets and the buildings of Pula.
• Culture:
Since many empires and inhabitants occupied Pula, the people are of mixed cultures and languages, ranging from English to Italian. Many aspects of the city such as cuisine and architecture reflect this. Winemaking, shipping, fishing are traditional occupations of the people in this city.
Tradition presides in all forms of art starting from music to dance (folk), poetry and architecture. Even in these changing days of globalization, the artists and the performers in theatres maintain the crux of traditional values.
Economy:
Since the city resides on the seashore, shipping is the most enterprising activity. However, the beauty of the city also lures many tourists and therefore tourism is a busy source of income. Apart from these, the people take upon occupations such as fishing, construction, glass making and wine making.
Tourism:
The city has a wide scope for tourism to flourish. There are many museums, parks and structures, which reflect the tradition of the city and also prove to be a visual treat. The coastal areas on the other hand, offer the beaches to relax and other activities such as sailing.
All in all, Pula is a city of beauty and life. The people are full of spirits and the hospitality provides the warmth and support. As a holiday destination, Pula could be one place, which would stay etched in the mind forever.
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