Pula, capital of Istria, the country’s most northern peninsular, is close to the Italian border. It is a lush green expanse, whose close proximity to Italy can be felt in its culture and architecture. Settled in the prehistoric era and valued for its strategic location, Pula has been occupied, destroyed and rebuilt numerous times. The Romans, Ostrogoths and Venetians, as well as the Allied Forces in World War II, have each administered the city.
In addition, Pula is Istria’s largest metropolis, situated in the valley of seven hills, with extraordinary Adriatic views. It’s a knockout to walk around: narrow cobbled streets that end suddenly, with magnificent Roman buildings – including, notably, an enormous, spectacular amphitheater, built to host 20,000 spectators between 27 – 68 AD, and the only remaining Roman amphitheater in the world with a complete circle wall.
Istria is a wine region, so cloister yourself in one of the town’s tavernas and try the local grapes. The cuisine is a mixture of seafood and Italian dishes, with restaurants on the Limski canal, serving the best fresh mussels, and the region, famous for its highest quality of white truffles; Pula truffles are said to rival the Alba and Piedmont in neighboring Italy. Truffles were appreciated by the Romans; they were believed to have grown as the result of the God Jupiter throwing a bolt of lightning into an oak tree.
“Croatia and Beyond” travelers, are sure to enjoy a gastronomic experience during our time in Pula; what better way to understand and savor the local cuisine. In the center of the peninsula, there is the Mirna Valley, which is dotted with vineyards happy for you to try their Merlot, Teran, Pinots or Sauvignon Blanc – some excited oenophiles are calling it the “New Tuscany”, maybe a stop on our day of adventure.
Beaches are unspoiled – unlike the busier southern parts of the country, and the seas are known for being calm and tranquil, which means they’re perfect for swimmers and relaxation. The boat marinas are picture perfect, and being a working port, and a gateway to the Adriatic, it is very convenient to do some day tripping!
Pula is a must see stop on any Croatian itinerary, and seeing it through the eyes of your native Croatian Host Nada Cory, will add a special touch of hospitality and insight, to what is sure to be a memorable journey.