It was a much-needed escape from our busy lives, and we decided to leave our lovely children in the caring hands of their grandparents for a few days. As we set off, we couldn't believe our luck that our kids were healthy and happily spending time with granma and granpa. We craved a vacation where we could take things at a slower pace, breathe in the refreshing sea air, and simply indulge in relaxation without any major plans or obligations. Got all that. In addition, the passing of a dolphin, the sunset, aimless walks around Pula and the surrounding area, and above all, the time to stop and capture all this calmly as a memory.
Pula got under my skin years ago. A city with a rich history, where some things are still completely undiscovered waiting for someone to point them out. Someone wrote that there is a point in Pula where you can stand and take in the remains of four different periods of history with one glance.
From the moment we arrived in Pula, we were enchanted by its historical allure. The city seemed to whisper tales of the past, urging us to uncover its hidden gems. The topography of the city is varied, the streets up and down, around the city there are hills on which there are the remains of fortresses from Austro-Hungarian times, when it was an important military port.
We eagerly delved into the remnants of four different historical periods, tracing the footsteps of those who came before us. The magnificent Pula Arena, a Roman amphitheater always takes our breath away. As you stand within its ancient walls, you can't help but imagine the grand gladiatorial battles that once took place right there. The sheer magnitude of the arena and its remarkable preservation left us in awe, deepening our appreciation for the city's rich history.
Pula's charm, at least for me, is that it is not just a tourist destination. Where other cities have the waterfront and bars with a view of the sea, Pula has Uljanik, a shipyard and remnants of industry. With the exception of those most touristic spots, she is definitely not polished and made up for just tourism. The streets have the pulse of a real city, with local people who live here, work here, meet at the market, drink coffee, go to school... It has its own kilometers of crumbling facades, housing estates, abandoned yards, potholed roads. Public toilets on the street are a special attraction, because you find them even before you see them.
We found ourselves strolling through narrow streets, exploring local shops, and indulging in delicious cuisine at charming restaurants and cafes. The city's vibrant energy embraced us as we mingled with locals going about their daily lives. We felt like we were truly part of the fabric of Pula, savoring its authenticity and welcoming atmosphere. Our favorite pastimes was wandering aimlessly through the picturesque streets, admiring the stunning coastal scenery.
The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea beckoned us, and we couldn't resist spending tranquil moments on the beautiful beaches. Verudela, a popular beach just a short distance from the city center, became our sanctuary, offering a peaceful haven to unwind and soak up the sun's warm embrace. One evening, as we sat on the beach rocks, mesmerized by the enchanting sunset, we were fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of dolphin gracefully swimming by. Amazing!
Beyond the city limits, Pula provided us with a gateway to explore the surrounding areas. We ventured to nearby towns such as Vodnjan, Rovinj and Fažana, each boasting its own unique charm and timeless beauty.
Our spring break in Pula was dreamy. A chance to escape the responsibilities of parenthood and rediscover ourselves as a couple. It was a reminder that amidst the chaos of life, it's essential to carve out moments of peace and tranquility.
HERE On Instagram are some highligts of our adventure.
Pula not only offered us a glimpse into the past but also gifted us with cherished memories and a renewed sense of connection. We returned home grateful for the unforgettable experiences we?ve shared and the bond we had strengthened. Pula will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Bojana
