Roman Imperial Architecture in Pula: From Augustus to the Flavians

The article explores the Roman imperial architecture of Pula, Croatia, focusing on its monumental structures from the Augustan and Flavian periods. Founded by Illyrians, Pula was conquered by the Roman Republic in 177 BCE and later razed by Augustus in 39 BCE before being rebuilt as Colonia Pietas Iulia Pola Pollentia Herculana. Key surviving monuments include the Arch of the Sergii (29–27 BCE), the Porta Gemina, the Hercules Gate, and the amphitheater built in three stages under Augustus, Claudius, and the Flavian dynasty (Titus or Vespasian). The amphitheater, with four levels of arcades, remains in use for concerts and events. The Temple of Augustus, with its Corinthian columns and pediment, stands on the forum, while the Temple of Diana was later incorporated into a medieval palace. The article also notes the city's urban layout adapted to the hill and harbor, with concentric streets rather than the standard cardo and decumanus.