Pula Arena: Exploring the Colossal Roman Amphitheatre
Pula Arena is one of the most impressive surviving monuments from the Ancient Roman Empire. Situated in the coastal city of Pula in Croatia, the Pula Arena is the 6th largest surviving Roman amphitheatre in the world and a popular tourist attraction. This article takes a look at the history and legacy of Pula Arena.
History and Legacy of the Pula Arena
The Pula Arena was constructed between 27 BC and 68 AD and is the best preserved Roman amphitheatre in Croatia. It was built to hold up to 20,000 spectators and was used for gladiator fights, hunting scenes and other public spectacles. The amphitheatre was also used as an arena for executions, as well as for religious ceremonies.
The Pula Arena was built out of stone and was originally covered in a thick layer of white plaster. This was used to reflect light and make the arena more visible. The walls of the arena were decorated with reliefs and sculptures of gods and goddesses, as well as the image of the Roman emperor.
The amphitheatre was damaged by an earthquake in the 6th century and was not restored until the 19th century. The restoration work was carried out by the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which also added a new façade to the arena.
Today, the Pula Arena is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Croatia. It hosts concerts, festivals and other events throughout the year. The amphitheatre is open to visitors who can explore the vast arena and its surrounding grounds.
Modern Uses of the Pula Arena
The Pula Arena is used for a variety of events throughout the year. It is used for concerts, theatre performances, festivals and other cultural events. The amphitheatre is also used for sporting events, such as basketball and volleyball games.
The Pula Arena also hosts a variety of movies each summer. It is the largest open-air cinema in the world and has hosted a number of international films, including Mission Impossible and The Bourne Identity.
Visiting the Pula Arena
The Pula Arena is open to visitors all year round. It is open from April to October from 9am to 7pm and from November to March from 9am to 4pm. It is recommended that visitors purchase tickets in advance to avoid queues.
Visitors can explore the amphitheatre and its surrounding grounds. The arena is also home to a number of museums, cafés and souvenir shops. There is a wide variety of accommodation options nearby, including hotels, hostels and apartments.
Conclusion
Pula Arena is a remarkable surviving monument from the Ancient Roman Empire and is one of the largest and best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world. It is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to explore the arena and its surrounding grounds. The amphitheatre is also used for concerts, festivals and other events throughout the year.