IMG_3648 - The Opatija Riviera on Kvarner Bay, and the Učka Mountain Range which rises behind it.
IMG_3651
IMG_3653
IMG_3654
IMG_3658 - The Pula Arena is one of the sixth largest Roman amphitheatres in the world and one of the best preserved.
IMG_3659 - Being so large, it was built outside the city walls of Roman Pula, connected by this Via Flavia, still one of the main town roads.
IMG_3660 - From the 5th century, when blood sports were outlawed, to the 13th, stone was plundered for new buildings.
IMG_3661 - Restorations in the 19th and 20th centuries adapted the Arena to theatre and meetings for up to 7-12,000 people.
IMG_3662
IMG_3664 - Modern spectators: Our group listening to the history told by our local guide. VoxBoxes make it much easier.
IMG_3665 - Seating originally extended to the top of the walls, with space for 20-23,000 spectators.
IMG_3666 - The morning show simulated hunting large animals. At noon were executions. Then, in prime time, gladiators appeared.