Forum Square

Imagine a place where ancient columns stand alongside cozy modern cafes, and under your feet lie paving stones that remember the footsteps of Roman legionnaires. Forum Square is the heart of the historic center of Pula, having maintained its status as the main public space for over two thousand years. Located in picturesque Croatia, this square is a living testament to how harmoniously different historical eras can intertwine.

Forum Square. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The Forum was founded in the 1st century BC as the administrative and religious center of the Roman colony. Today, it is the city's main tourist location, where the most important architectural monuments are concentrated. The crown jewel of the ensemble is the Temple of Augustus — one of the best-preserved Roman temples in Europe, whose majesty and graceful proportions never fail to amaze travelers.

The square is located at the foot of the central hill, very close to the sea, which gives it a special atmosphere. It is not just an open-air museum, but a lively meeting place where city festivals and concerts are held, allowing every guest to feel part of the centuries-old history of Istria.

To get up-to-date information about events on the square or the opening hours of the Temple of Augustus, you can contact the city's tourist information center. Key contact details for travelers:

The main activity on the square is visiting the Temple of Augustus. Peek inside to see a small but valuable collection of ancient stone sculpture. Right behind the temple, look for the Town Hall — its architecture is unique because the eastern wall is actually part of the ancient Roman Temple of Diana, preserved from antiquity.

If you enjoy atmospheric walks, be sure to have a cup of coffee or try local cuisine at one of the outdoor cafes located right around the perimeter of the Forum. This is the best way to leisurely watch the city life and observe the details of the medieval buildings surrounding the square. On summer evenings, free concerts, theatrical performances, and open-air film screenings are often held here.

Don't forget to stop by the tourist office located right on the square — you can pick up maps and find out about current exhibitions there. For photography enthusiasts, the Forum offers endless angles: from majestic Roman columns to the narrow cobbled streets branching out from the square in all directions.

Forum Square is located in the very heart of the historic center of Pula, in the western part of the pedestrian zone. If you are already walking around the old town, finding it won't be difficult — all main tourist paths lead here, and signs will help you find your way. From the famous Amphitheater, the walk will take no more than 10–15 minutes at a leisurely pace along the waterfront or through cozy ancient streets.

For those arriving from other parts of the city or the suburbs, you can use public transport: the nearest bus stops are located just a few minutes' walk from the entrance to the historic center. The square is also easily reached by taxi — drivers know this location well as it is the main focal point for tourists.

If you are traveling by car, please note that the square itself and the adjacent streets are pedestrianized. It is recommended to leave your car at one of the paid parking lots nearby (for example, by the waterfront or near the port) and continue on foot, enjoying the atmosphere of the ancient city.

The history of this place dates back to the 1st century BC. During the height of the Roman Empire, the square was the center of the colony of Pietas Iulia (Pula's ancient name). This was the hub of activity where state affairs were decided, religious rites performed, and lively trade conducted. The Forum was designed according to the classic Roman model and was originally surrounded by majestic porticos.

On the northern side of the square, three temples once stood, dedicated to the gods of the Capitoline Triad — Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva. Only the Temple of Augustus, built in the early 1st century AD, has survived to this day in its original form. The adjacent Temple of Diana has not been fully preserved; however, its elements were skillfully integrated into the medieval Town Hall in the 13th century, making the square's architectural ensemble a unique layering of eras.

Over the centuries, the appearance of the square changed as ancient colonnades gave way to medieval facades and Renaissance details. Nevertheless, the Forum never lost its significance, remaining the administrative and social core of the city. Even today, Pula’s City Hall is located in the very same place where representatives of Roman authority once sat.

For a quick look at the square's architecture and a few souvenir photos, 20–30 minutes might be enough. However, if you plan to go inside the Temple of Augustus, read the information stands, and examine the details of the Town Hall facade, you should budget about 1 hour for your visit.

Many tourists prefer to stay longer to soak in the rhythm of the Old Town over a cup of coffee in one of the street cafes. In this case, visiting the square can take 1.5–2 hours, turning into a full relaxation experience surrounded by living history.

Forum Square itself is an open public space, so access to it is free 24/7 on any day of the week. You can come here early in the morning to enjoy the silence and the first rays of sun on the ancient stones, or late in the evening when the buildings are beautifully illuminated.

However, keep in mind that individual sites on the square have their own schedules. The Temple of Augustus and administrative institutions (such as the Town Hall or the info center) operate on schedules that may change depending on the tourist season. They are usually open from morning until evening, but operating hours may be reduced during the winter period.

Exploring the surroundings of Forum Square allows you to fully experience the city's centuries-old history. Monuments of antiquity are found at every turn, alternating with medieval fortifications and cultural centers.

A walk from the Forum to nearby iconic sites takes very little time, making this area perfect for a rich walking itinerary.