Cave Romanae near Pula

Cave Romanae is a historic quarry near Pula in Istria. It’s known for supplying the stone used to build the Pula Arena during Roman times, under Emperor Vespasian’s rule. Located in Vinkuran, this quarry was important because of its quality white stone. Today, it’s a historical site that gives us a glimpse into Roman building techniques and their influence in Istria. It’s a popular spot for those interested in history and archaeology but also a popular spot for cool events.

Cavae Romani from air
Cavae Romani from air
Entrance to Cavae Romani
Entrance to Cavae Romani
Cavae Romani
Cavae Romani

Location of Cavae Romani

The quarry is situated in the area of Vinkuran, close to the city of Pula. It became notable for its high-quality white stone, which was extensively used during antiquity. Its proximity to key Roman settlements in Istria made it a crucial resource for building materials. Especially the Arena of Pula.

Old Graphic of Pula
Old Graphic of Pula

A Must-Visit for History Buffs and Adventure Seekers

Today, Cave Romanae stands as a historical landmark, offering insights into Roman architectural practices and resource extraction methods. It’s a point of interest for archaeologists, historians, and tourists, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Istria. The quarry represents not just the physical remnants of the past but also serves as a symbol of the enduring legacy of Roman engineering and architecture in the region. A while back I visited a smilar, Roman quarry on Brač Island.

Cavae Romani today
Cavae Romani today

There is also a room on the side with abandoned machinery used in the past for stone excavation and handling.

Old machinery
Old machinery

And, at the entrance, one can see several carved figures as some sort of an art instalation.

Carving in the rock
Carving in the rock

But our main reson of visiting was to inspect the site for a private event we will be organizing. The quarry is a very popular place for events and has its own web site: https://www.caveromane.com/