The Amphitheatre is one of the most famous architectural monuments in the old part of the city of Pula. Many Croatian cultural and historical landmarks are associated with the Roman Empire. This Amphitheatre was built just during the Roman Empire, in the first century AD, when Vespasian ruled. To this day, various film festivals and theatre shows are held here.
In ancient times, the amphitheatre could accommodate about 23,000 guests. The structure has been preserved quite well, but today it is devoid of panelling, as the stone was used for other city buildings. Today you can see the outer façade of the amphitheatre, as well as the three tiers with a gallery at the top, which faces the sea. Lighting of the inner galleries and passageways for guests was provided by arches in the wall.
You can visit the museum, which is located in the underground rooms of this amphitheatre. There are archaeological objects that were found in the area during the excavations - various amphorae, as well as tablets with ancient writings.
The centre of the structure is located in the centre of the building.
In the centre of the structure is the arena, the size of which is 68 by 42 metres. The main purpose of the arena is, of course, to hold gladiator fights. The most brutal are considered to be the fights that took place here during the reign of Diocletian. Then not only gladiators, but also slaves had to fight with wild beasts. Later, in 404, when Christianity was established, such battles were forbidden.
