CULTURAL & HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS
ROMAN HERITAGE
Temple of Augustus
A remarkably preserved Roman temple overlooking Pula’s historic Forum and showcasing more than two thousand years of history.
Location
Attraction Type
Entry
Best For
Visit Duration
Why Visit Temple of Augustus
✓ One of the finest Roman temples outside Italy
✓ Landmark location on Pula’s Forum
✓ Beautiful Corinthian architecture
✓ Small exhibition of Roman sculpture
✓ Easy to combine with other attractions
✓ Quick and rewarding visit
About Temple of Augustus
The Temple of Augustus stands on the north-western side of Pula’s Forum, the historic main square of the city. Dedicated to the goddess Roma and Emperor Augustus, it was built between 2 BC and AD 14 and remains one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the Adriatic region. Surrounded today by cafés, historic buildings and the Communal Palace, it creates a striking connection between everyday city life and the ancient Roman world.
Architecturally, the monument is a classic Roman podium temple with a deep portico supported by four Corinthian columns. Built using finely cut stone masonry, it demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship achieved during the reign of Augustus. The temple measures approximately 17.3 metres in length, 8.4 metres in width and around 8 metres in height.
Over the centuries the building served several different functions, including a church and later a granary. During World War II it suffered severe damage in an Allied bombing raid in 1944, but was carefully reconstructed after the war using surviving fragments and archaeological documentation.
Today the temple functions as a small lapidarium and exhibition space displaying Roman stone and bronze sculptures. Its central location and manageable size make it one of the easiest and most rewarding Roman monuments to visit in Pula.
Explore Temple of Augustus
Most visitors first notice the elegant façade facing the Forum. Four free-standing Corinthian columns support a richly decorated entablature whose sculpted details are often compared to some of the finest surviving Roman temples elsewhere in Europe. The raised podium and symmetrical design create an impressive presence despite the temple’s relatively compact size.
Inside the cella, visitors can view a small collection of Roman portrait sculptures, reliefs and archaeological artefacts from Pula and the surrounding region. Information panels provide historical context and help explain the role of the imperial cult in Roman society.
The Forum itself forms an important part of the experience. Many visitors spend time photographing the temple from different angles, relaxing at nearby cafés or imagining how the square appeared when multiple Roman temples once stood here.
Attraction Details
- Built between 2 BC and AD 14
- Dedicated to Roma and Emperor Augustus
- Located on Pula’s historic Forum
- Roman podium temple design
- Four Corinthian front columns
- Constructed using opus isodomum masonry
- Functions as a lapidarium and museum
- Reconstructed after World War II damage
- Contains Roman stone and bronze sculptures
VisitPula Our Take
The Temple of Augustus is ideal for visitors interested in Roman history, architecture and photography. Its position in the centre of the Forum makes it one of the easiest cultural attractions to include in a day exploring Pula.
Although the interior exhibition is relatively small, the quality of the architecture and historical significance of the monument make it well worth the modest admission fee. Many visitors find the exterior as memorable as the collection inside.
Early morning and late afternoon are particularly enjoyable times to visit when the Forum is quieter and the light is ideal for photography. Allow around 15–30 minutes for the temple itself and longer if you plan to relax in the square afterwards.
Photos of Temple of Augustus
Nearby Places
Explore more historic attractions and landmarks near Pula Arena
Prices & Booking
Adults:
€2.00
Children:
€1.00
Students:
€1.00
Children under 6 years:
Free
Season & Availability
Season:
April–October
Best period:
May–September
Peak season:
July–August
Best time of day:
Morning or late afternoon
Visit duration:
15–30 minutes
Opening hours may change due to seasonal schedules, public holidays or special events. Check current information before your visit.
Map Location
Before You Go
- Allow 15–30 minutes
- Visit early in summer
- Bring a camera
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Combine with Forum sightseeing
- Watch for slippery stone surfaces
- Carry water on hot days
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Temple of Augustus worth visiting in Pula?
- Yes. The Temple of Augustus is one of the best-preserved Roman temples outside Italy and one of Pula’s most important historic landmarks.
- How much are tickets for the Temple of Augustus?
- Adult tickets cost €2.00, while children and students pay €1.00. Children under six years old enter free of charge.
- How long does it take to visit the Temple of Augustus?
- Most visitors spend between 15 and 30 minutes exploring the temple and its exhibition of Roman sculptures.
- What can you see inside the Temple of Augustus?
- Visitors can see Roman stone and bronze sculptures, portrait busts and archaeological artefacts displayed inside the historic temple.
- Where is the Temple of Augustus located?
- The Temple of Augustus stands on the Forum, the historic main square in the centre of Pula’s old town.
