Culture

The Rich History of Ascents and Hills of Pula

Rich history which is present everywhere you go through this 1000 year old town creates a unique experience for each visitor.

There are unique hills and the ascents in the old part of the town of which Pula is known of that hide numerous secrets from the past. It doesn't matter which ascent or hill you will climb because on the hilltop you will have a magnificent view of the town and the surroundings.

Pula Kaštel
The hill which has the most beautiful view of the Pula bay
The Castle - 'Kaštel' is a hill located in the centre of Pula, to which you will arrive through any of the ascents located in the town centre.

The Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria is waiting for you at the top of the hill where you can visit interesting exhibitions and which has a beautiful view of Pula and its harbour.
You can watch movies during warm summer nights and enjoy great concerts.

A small theatre with a rich history
On the slope below The Castle - 'Kaštel' the remains of a Roman theatre from the 1st century can be found. An interesting fact is that the Amphitheatre in Pula had two theatres during the Roman period - one large theatre located outside the town and a Small roman theatre located inside the town walls. This small theatre is believed to have had a capacity from 4000 to 5000 visitors - all of the town's inhabitants.

Sveta srca
The gallery which is worth a visit to the top of the ascent 
The Sacred Hearts museum - gallery venue is located at the top of the De Ville ascent. It is a former church and monastery and great exhibitions, lectures and concerts are being held there.

Also, it’s one of the steepest ascents in Pula but it's worth a visit because there’s a great spot where you can take a selfie.

The sacral treasure of Pula is located on this ascent
At the ascent between the Forum and the halfway to Kaštel, lies the monastic complex dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, built in the 13th century. The entrance to the monastery is located in the middle of the ascent and you can find peace and tranquillity in one of the oldest Franciscan monastery located on the eastern part of the Adriatic coast.

Pula Zvjezdarnica
The brightest stars can be found on this hill in Pula
At Monte Zaro, located on one of the seven hills in Pula which you can reach by walking on the pebble stairs of Jurina and Franina, you should visit the Observatory from the time when Pula was the main war port of Austria.

The oldest astronomic institution in Croatia discovered 28 new planetoids and one of them bears the name “Istria”.
Enjoy the walk in the park located near the observatory, in the view of Pula and stars in the sky!

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