Temple of Augustus, Pula: History, Facts & What to Know

Part of our Pula travel guide  — explore all our Pula posts.

Standing proudly on the edge of Pula's bustling Forum square, the Temple of Augustus is a remarkably preserved testament to Rome's golden age on the Adriatic coast. Originally built during the reign of the first Roman emperor, this elegant structure has survived world-altering transformations, bombings, and reconstructions over two millennia. In the heat of a Croatian summer, its cool stone columns provide a striking contrast to the sun-drenched cafe terraces that surround it. Once dedicated to the goddess Roma and Emperor Augustus, it now acts as a silent anchor connecting Croatia's modern maritime culture to its imperial Roman past.

Exploring the Forum and the Ancient Temple

Start your historical exploration at 9:00 AM before the sun heats the stone pavement of the Forum. Spend 30 minutes admiring the exterior Corinthian columns and the beautifully carved frieze that runs along the temple header. Head inside the temple to view the curated collection of Roman stone and bronze sculptures, which takes about 20 minutes to appreciate fully. Afterward, walk around the rear of the temple to see the remains of the adjacent Roman temple foundations, followed by a light espresso at the historic Forum Cafe directly opposite the temple steps, where you can reflect on the centuries of history that have unfolded on this very ground.

The Experience

The scent of saltwater carried by a gentle breeze from the nearby Pula harbor, the sharp clatter of espresso cups from bustling seaside cafes, and the imposing presence of ancient gray marble standing defiant against a bright blue Adriatic sky. It is a place where history feels alive, integrated seamlessly into the daily rhythm of modern Croatian life.

Nearby Pairings

Pula Communal Palace, Arch of the Sergii, Zerostrasse underground tunnels

How to Visit Smoothly

The Temple of Augustus is located in the main pedestrian square of Pula. The interior museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM during the summer season, with a modest entry fee of approximately 3 EUR. The exterior can be viewed freely at any hour of the day or night.

Photo Notes

Shoot from a low angle on the west side of the Forum during the late afternoon to capture the golden sun striking the temple façade. A polarizing filter will help emphasize the deep blue Croatian sky behind the pristine stone columns.