From May 16 to May 30, 2026, Pula once again becomes a stage of ancient history through the event Days of Antiquity, a unique festival that interprets the city’s rich Roman heritage in a contemporary way. Over the course of two weeks, the program offers a blend of history, culture, entertainment, and education designed for all generations.
With a new program focus, three consecutive weekends (May 15–16, May 22–23, and May 29–30) will transform the city’s historic center into a setting from the Roman era. The area stretching from the Arena, through the Forum, to Portarata (Arch of the Sergii) will be filled with costumed characters, the sounds of ancient music, and scenes from everyday life in the former Roman colony.
Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the world of legionaries and gladiators, Roman ladies and philosophers, discover ancient crafts, take part in themed workshops, taste dishes inspired by ancient cuisine, and experience staged performances of Roman customs and ceremonies.
The program at the Forum and Portarata places special emphasis on interactive activities for children—educational games, creative workshops, and small archaeology schools—while adults can enjoy historical reenactments, gastronomic presentations, and evening spectacles that revive the spirit of ancient Rome. In cooperation with associations, historical units, and numerous enthusiasts, the city will once again affirm its identity as an ancient metropolis.
The ceremonial finale will take place on May 30 at 8:30 PM in the Arena, where the audience will have the opportunity to witness an impressive reconstruction of gladiatorial combats, Spectacvla Antiqva. Authentic scenography, Roman ceremonies, legionary units, and arena combats will create a powerful and unforgettable experience of an ancient spectacle.
This year’s 23rd edition of the event is organized by the Tourist Board of the City of Pula, the City of Pula, and the Archaeological Museum of Istria in cooperation with partners Ilustris Travel and Aroma Power Events, with the aim of preserving, interpreting, and promoting the rich ancient heritage and further strengthening Pula’s cultural and tourism identity.