CULTURAL & HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS
ROMAN HERITAGE
Forum Square Pula
Walk through Pula’s original Roman forum, a historic civic square framed by the Temple of Augustus and Communal Palace.
Location
Attraction Type
Entry
Best For
Visit Duration
Why Visit Forum Square Pula
✓ Walk on Pula’s original Roman forum
✓ Admire the Temple of Augustus
✓ See the medieval Communal Palace
✓ Enjoy cafés on the historic square
✓ Experience a lively hub for events
About Forum Square Pula
Forum Square Pula, also known as Piazza Foro, is the historic main square of Pula and the site of the ancient Roman forum of the colony of Pola. Set on the western edge of the old town, close to the sea and below the hilltop fortress, it has been the city’s civic and social centre for more than two thousand years.
Today the square is framed by the Temple of Augustus, the medieval–Renaissance Communal Palace and later townhouses, with restaurant and café terraces extending onto the stone paving. It offers visitors a compact but rich view of Pula’s history, where Roman architecture, medieval masonry and later urban details meet modern local life.
The forum is an easy stop to combine with other major sights in central Pula. From here, visitors can continue towards the Cathedral, the Roman Theatre, the Arch of the Sergii, the hilltop fortress or the Pula Arena.
Explore Forum Square Pula
The star of the square is the Temple of Augustus, a slender Roman temple with graceful Corinthian columns and a well-preserved façade that dominates the western side of the forum.
Beside it stands the Communal Palace, Pula’s city hall, whose walls include older stonework, columns and sculpted fragments from the neighbouring Roman temple complex. Together, these buildings give a clear impression of the grand civic and religious setting that once shaped the Roman forum.
Around this ancient backdrop, Forum Square remains very much alive. Café and restaurant terraces line the square, locals cross it during daily errands, and in summer it is often used for smaller concerts, performances and official events.
Attraction Details
- Historic main square of Pula
- Site of the ancient Roman forum
- Located on the western edge of the old town
- Close to the waterfront and hilltop fortress
- Framed by the Temple of Augustus
- Home to the medieval–Renaissance Communal Palace
- Public pedestrian square with free access
- Cafés and restaurants with outdoor terraces
- Used for cultural events and official gatherings
- Recommended visit duration: 20–45 minutes
VisitPula Our Take
Forum Square Pula is ideal for visitors who want to understand the city’s Roman roots without leaving the old town. It suits history lovers, architecture fans, families and anyone looking for an atmospheric place to pause while exploring central Pula.
It is worth visiting because the ancient forum still works as a living public square rather than a closed archaeological site. Morning and early evening are the best times for softer light, easier temperatures and relaxed photography.
Allow 20 to 45 minutes for the square itself, or longer if you plan to visit nearby sights or sit at one of the cafés. The square is free to access, but individual buildings and venues may have their own opening hours or admission rules.
Photos of Forum Square Pula
Nearby Places
Explore more historic attractions and landmarks near Pula Arena
Location & Contact
Address:
Forum 3, 52100 Pula, Istria, Croatia
Location:
Western edge of Pula old town
Access & Admission
Entrance:
Free
Season & Availability
Season:
Accessible at all times
Best period:
Spring to autumn
Peak season:
Summer
Best time of day:
Morning or early evening
Visit duration:
20–45 minutes
Map Location
Before You Go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Visit early in summer.
- Bring sun protection.
- Watch for uneven paving.
- Allow time for photos.
- Check event schedules locally.
- Combine with Roman sights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Forum Square Pula
- Is Forum Square Pula worth visiting?
- Yes. Forum Square is the historic heart of Pula, where Roman monuments, medieval architecture and everyday city life come together in one of Croatia’s best-preserved ancient civic spaces.
- Is there an entrance fee for Forum Square Pula?
- No. Forum Square is a public square and can be visited free of charge at any time. Admission fees only apply if you choose to visit attractions such as the Temple of Augustus.
- How long should I spend at Forum Square Pula?
- Most visitors spend between 20 and 45 minutes exploring the square, taking photographs and enjoying the surrounding cafés. Allow more time if you plan to visit nearby attractions.
- What can you see at Forum Square Pula?
- Visitors can admire the Temple of Augustus, the medieval Communal Palace, historic stone architecture, lively café terraces and the original site of the Roman forum that has served as Pula’s civic centre for more than two thousand years.
- When is the best time to visit Forum Square Pula?
- Morning and early evening offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful light for photography. During summer, the square also hosts cultural events and performances.
