The Gate of Hercules: Entering the Roman Heart of Pula
Tucked away between narrow streets and medieval towers in the heart of Pula lies a piece of living history—The Gate of Hercules, the city’s oldest surviving Roman monument. Modest in appearance but monumental in significance, this ancient gateway has silently witnessed the rise of one of Istria’s most important cities.
Pula’s Earliest Roman Legacy
The Gate of Hercules (Porta Ercole) was built around 47 BCE, during the founding of the Roman colony Colonia Pietas Iulia Pola. This structure is not merely decorative—it served as one of the original entrances into the Roman city and is widely regarded as the oldest preserved architectural fragment of Pula’s Roman past.
Set between two medieval towers, the gate once formed part of the city’s defensive walls. Today, it marks a subtle yet profound threshold between modern Pula and its imperial origins.
Hercules – Protector of the City
At the top of the arched entrance, visitors can spot a simple stone relief of Hercules’ head. With a beard, curly hair, and his signature club beside him, Hercules appears not just as myth, but as a guardian of the city. In fact, ancient Pula was once referred to as Pola Herculanea, reflecting the belief that Hercules himself watched over the city.
The symbolism is clear: anyone entering through these gates was stepping into a place protected by one of mythology’s most powerful figures.
A Latin Inscription and Historic Authority
Next to the relief, a partially preserved Latin inscription names two Roman officials: Lucius Calpurnius Piso, the father-in-law of Julius Caesar, and Gaius Cassius Longinus, brother of one of Caesar’s assassins. These men were sent by the Roman Senate between 47 and 44 BCE to establish the colony of Pola.
This inscription is more than a nameplate—it’s a historical marker that ties the city to key players in Rome’s political drama and confirms the colony’s official imperial foundation.
Understated Architecture, Enduring Importance
Though lacking the grandeur of triumphal arches or imperial temples, the Gate of Hercules impresses in its own way. Made of rough-cut limestone blocks and absent of ornamentation, its simplicity reflects the utilitarian style of early Roman public works.
Its modesty only enhances its authenticity. There are no flourishes to distract—only stone, time, and meaning.
A Portal Through Time
Today, the Gate of Hercules doesn’t merely stand as a historical monument—it serves as a symbol of continuity. It connects ancient Rome to modern-day Pula. It reminds us that even the smallest structures can carry immense cultural weight. Surrounded by medieval buildings, cafés, and city life, it stands resilient, waiting to share its story with each passerby.
Practical Information:
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Location: Near the Pula City Library and close to Portarata Square
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Accessibility: Open 24/7, no ticket required
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Recommended with: Arena, Temple of Augustus, Arch of the Sergii, and the Twin Gates
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