Pula Castle (Kastel), Pula (must see)

In its history, Pula has been attacked many times. Before the Roman era, the indigenous Istrian people had defensive fortifications. The Venetians established their fortifications in the same place where the ancient Istrians had theirs; on the hill in the center of Pula. The perfect place for the defense of the city and the bay.

Pula Castle ("Kastel") was built in the period 1630-1633. The designs were by French military architect and engineer, Antonio De Villa. Stones from the old Roman amphitheater were used in its construction in addition to stones from local quarries.

Seen from above, the fort has a blossom shape. The center is rectangular with four pentagonal towers for more effective defensive fire power. The castle was part of Pula's extensive fortification system. During the Austro-Hungarian era the castle was called Hafen Kastell. It became an armory, a prison, and barracks.

The historical and Maritime Museum of Istria is housed in the Baroque 16th century fortress. The museum has more than 100,000 exhibits. The collections include numismatics, photographs and equipment, graphics, maps, postcards, and documents, all involved with the sea and shipbuilding.

There are thousands of 19th century postcards including 1,500 with maritime and naval scenes and sailors' lives and work. In the Maritime History Department, shipbuilding exhibits and items salvaged from wrecks by divers are shown. A reconstruction of the 19th century Royal Hospital and exhibits of pharmaceutical history can be seen.

The Castle offers a rich sampling of history and spectacular views of the city below.