In May, when all around there are wonderful scents that evoke memories, Pula – one of the most beautiful cities in the world – will host the traditional event ‘Days of Antiquity’.
Throughout the theme event ‘A Hint of the Roman Empire’, living images of the ancient Pula in the present moment will take us back to the distant past.
In Search of Ancient Beauty (Quaestio de Pulchritudine Antiqua), in honor of an ancient wedding, at the beautiful Forum in Pula, the audience will enjoy and participate very actively during the entire event. In this way, they will create a new community by incorporating their own thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
The Fragrance of a Woman – The Secret of a Balsamary (Odor Feminae – Secretum Balsamarii), Sounds of Antiquity (Soni Antiqui), and Tastes of Antiquity (Gustus Antiquitatis) will trigger all your senses.
Through the method of storytelling, visitors will be presented with the customs and traditions preceding a Roman Wedding (Nuptiae Romanae). In ancient times, the act of marriage was celebrated with the words: ‘I take you to be my wife (or husband) and I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad.’
The marriage was preceded by an engagement, which was prepared for months, even years, before the act of marriage itself.
With specific music and dance performances in front of the majestic Temple of Augustus, with the ‘living history’ concept, the audience will experience a unique form of bonding and celebration.
The workshop Art and Wine – Motifs of Antiquity (Ars Vinumque) invites you to actively participate and get in touch with your own view of history. The Gladiator Spear (Hasta) will give you the opportunity to see and meet the gladiators. As the grand finale, gladiator fights, a valuable part of a three-thousand-year-long history of the city and its surroundings, will take place in the Pula Arena on the last weekend of the event.
Experience the Days of Antiquity in Pula
Ubi tu Gaius, ego Gaia — ‘Wherever you go, I will follow you’ – these are key words of an ancient Roman wedding ceremony and a beautiful message to remember from your holiday in Pula.