Cycling today is 39.5 kilometers · +366 m / -376 m.
Today is the final stage of our journey, and so we departed from the town of Rovinj and headed south towards the historic city of Pula.
The first leg took us on light gravel roads through campsites and beaches. The cycle ride today involved some busy roads which is challenging when you are on a bike.
Pula, a seafront city on the tip of Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula, is known for its protected harbor, beach-lined coast and Roman ruins. Settled in the prehistoric era and valued for its strategic location, Pula has been occupied, destroyed and rebuilt numerous times. The Romans, Ostrogoths and Venetians, as well as the Allied Forces in World War II, have each administered the city. Sadly it is a rather neglected city with the buildings needing renovating. The graffiti is also very noticeable.
We walked through the Arc of Sergeii into the old town, down the cobbled streets full of lolly shops and ice cream stores and restaurants, until we came to Forum Square which is quite spectacular with the Temple of Augustus and many other ancient buildings. Please see the information on these buildings below.
The Arch of Sergii, also known as the Golden Gate of Pula, is an impressive ancient Roman triumphal arch located in the historic center of Pula, Croatia. Built in the 1st century BC to commemorate the victories of the Sergii family, the arch features ornate reliefs and sculptures depicting scenes from Roman mythology and military triumphs. Despite its age, the arch has been remarkably well-preserved, making it one of the most striking examples of Roman architecture in the region. It leads into the old town of Pula.
The Temple of Augustus, situated in the Forum which is big square in the old town, is dedicated to goddess Roma and Emperor Augustus. It was constructed between the year 2 BC and AD 14 when the Emperor died. In 1944 it was hit by a bomb and completely destroyed. It was reconstructed between the years 1945 and 1947 and nowadays it houses a collection of ancient stone and bronze sculptures.
The Roman Amphitheater in Pula, also known as the Pula Arena, is an impressive ancient monument located in the heart of the city of Pula, Croatia. Built over 2,000 years ago, the arena is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world and is still used today for cultural events and concerts.
We went to a recommended restaurant called the Rendez-vous tonight and although it has a french name it actually served italian food and was very good. Margaret and I have become very fond of a drink called a Hugo which is prosecco, elderberry syrup, lime juice, gin and soda water. Very refreshing!!