Valerijin park

Valerijin Park is a historic city park in Pula, spread out right in front of the Roman amphitheatre known as the Arena. It is a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike who want to rest in the shade after exploring the city's ancient landmarks.

Where exactly is the park located?

The park sits on a low hill directly above the Arena, near the northern approach into the city centre. From its paths you get views over the amphitheatre and the nearby harbour, and the walk between the two attractions takes only a few minutes on foot. That makes Valerijin Park a natural stop for anyone touring the Arena — a good spot to sit on a bench, catch your breath, and see the monument from a different angle than street level.

Why is the park named after Valeria?

The park carries the name of Empress Valeria, wife of the Roman emperor Galerius and daughter of Emperor Diocletian, who was born in nearby Split. Naming a park after a Roman empress is a deliberate nod to Pula's ancient past, whose most recognisable trace is the neighbouring Arena itself. The idea behind the design was for the greenery to form a dignified, fitting setting around the Roman landmark.

When was the park created and how did it develop?

The grounds were landscaped at the end of the 19th century, between 1890 and 1893, when the city decided to extend its green spaces toward the Arena. Paths, tree plantings and small architectural features typical of parks from that era were laid out at the time. Valerijin Park was considered the high point of park design in Pula in that period — it was planned with real ambition, with careful attention to the layout of the greenery and to sightlines toward the city's landmarks.

The park also forms a natural continuation of the neighbouring Tito's Park, which lies to the southwest. Together the two green spaces make up a larger, connected park complex right in the centre of Pula, popular with locals looking for a break from the bustle of the city.

What can families with children do in the park?

The park has a playground that is popular with families with young children. Benches line the paths, and mature trees provide solid shade even on hot summer afternoons — no small thing in Pula, where summers can get quite warm. Visitors strolling through the park will also come across statues and monuments worth a closer look along the way.

Is it worth visiting the park while touring the Arena?

Yes, definitely — it is the simplest way to catch a break after an intense visit to the amphitheatre without straying far from the centre. The park requires no ticket or booking, is open to the public all day, and serves as a natural resting point on the route between the Arena and the old town.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Valerijin Park free? Yes, the park is open to the public and free to visit at any time of day.

How far is the park from the amphitheatre? The park sits right next to the Arena — just a few minutes' walk away, on the hill directly above the monument.

Is there a playground for children? Yes, the park includes a playground, making it a good rest stop for families travelling with kids.

Where does the park's name come from? The park is named after Empress Valeria, wife of Emperor Galerius and daughter of Diocletian, reflecting a nod to Pula's Roman history.