Archaeological Museum of Istria

Nestled in the charming city of Pula, the Archaeological Museum of Istria (Arheološki muzej Istre) stands as a testament to the rich and diverse history of the Istrian peninsula. Founded in 1902, this museum has grown to house over 3000 artifacts, each narrating tales from prehistoric times, through the grandeur of the Roman Empire, and into the medieval period. For history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, the Archaeological Museum of Istria offers a fascinating journey through time.

The History of the Archaeological Museum of Istria

The origins of the Archaeological Museum of Istria trace back to the early 20th century when significant archaeological finds in Nesactium prompted the establishment of a city museum in Pula. Initially known as the Museo civico, the museum's collection expanded significantly in 1925 when the Istrian Society for Archaeology and Local History moved its headquarters to Pula, bringing with it a wealth of archaeological stone monuments from the provincial museum in Poreč.

In 1930, the museum relocated to its current building, a former k.k. Gymnasium designed by Natale Tommasi in 1890. This move marked the transformation of the museum into the Regional Museum of Istria (Regio Museo dell'Istria). Despite the turmoil of World War II, which saw some artifacts transported to Italy, the museum reopened in the late 1940s under Yugoslav administration as the Archaeological Museum of Istria. The museum underwent significant renovations and expansions in the following decades, continuing to enrich its collections with new discoveries from across Istria.

Exploring the Museum

The Archaeological Museum of Istria is located in a picturesque park setting, accessible through the historic Porta Gemina, a double gate from the Roman city walls of Pula. As you approach the museum, you'll find yourself surrounded by the remnants of ancient history, including the foundations of a Roman mausoleum, a small Roman theater, and an ancient cistern.

Inside the museum, visitors can explore three main permanent collections, each dedicated to a different era of Istrian history: prehistoric, Roman, and medieval. The prehistoric collection features stone fragments from Nesactium, including pieces with religious significance, as well as artifacts from the Romualdo Cave and other prehistoric sites across Istria. Bronze and Iron Age finds from various hillforts on the peninsula also highlight the region's ancient past.

The Roman Collection

The Roman collection is a highlight for many visitors, offering a glimpse into the daily life and grandeur of the Roman Empire in Istria. The collection includes stone, ceramic, and metal artifacts from the former Roman cities of Colonia Pietas Iulia Pola, Nesactium, and Parentium. Among the notable pieces are the Lapidarium, a collection of stone monuments, and a fascinating assortment of jewelry and coins that reflect the prosperity and culture of Roman Istria.

One of the most remarkable artifacts in the Roman collection is the treasure of King Epulon, dating back to the 2nd century BC. This treasure, along with a mosaic fragment from the Chapel of St. Maria Formosa (6th century AD) and an intricately crafted ivory casket with Dionysian scenes from the 10th century AD, showcases the artistic and cultural achievements of the ancient inhabitants of Istria.

The Medieval Collection

The medieval collection offers insights into the early Christian period in Istria, featuring floor mosaics from Nesactium and Pula, including those from St. Maria Formosa, St. John in the Nymph, St. Felicita, and St. Nicholas. These mosaics, along with other architectural and artistic treasures from early Christian churches in Istria, provide a vivid picture of the region's religious and cultural life during the medieval period.

Additional Facilities and Publications

In addition to its impressive collections, the Archaeological Museum of Istria also includes a documentation department that publishes the archaeological journal Histria Archaeologica, featuring the latest research findings. The museum's library, established in 1903, houses over 40,000 volumes, including numerous periodicals and scientific publications related to archaeology and history.

The museum's conservation and restoration department, located in the basement, is dedicated to the preservation and care of the museum's artifacts. Visitors can arrange tours to learn more about the meticulous work involved in conserving these precious pieces of history.

Visiting the Museum

Whether you're a history buff, an archaeology enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Archaeological Museum of Istria offers a captivating journey through the millennia. As you wander through its halls and explore its collections, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Istria and the many civilizations that have left their mark on this beautiful region. A visit to this museum is not just an exploration of the past, but a celebration of the enduring legacy of human ingenuity and creativity.