Ulica Svetog Franje Asiskog 9
Open: Jun- Sep: 10am- 1pm, 4- 8pm
The Monastery and Church of Saint Francis, located in Pula, Croatia, is a captivating Franciscan complex perched on the western slope of Kaštel Hill, nestled between the ancient Roman Forum and the medieval fortress. This site, built atop the remnants of an early Christian complex dedicated to St. John the Baptist, embodies centuries of spiritual and architectural heritage, blending Romanesque simplicity with Gothic elegance.
The Franciscans first arrived in Pula in the 13th century, shortly after St. Francis of Assisi founded the order in 1209 with papal approval from Innocent III. The community was officially recorded around this time, and construction of the church commenced in 1314 under the guidance of architect Jakov Puljanin (Jacobus de Pola), adhering to Franciscan architectural guidelines established in Narbonne in 1260. A notable figure in its early history was Blessed Otto, who joined the monastery around 1235 and passed away in 1241; he remains venerated locally, with Franciscan chronicles attributing numerous healings to him. The complex has endured transformations over the centuries, including damage during World War II, but has been meticulously restored to preserve its role as a spiritual haven. Today, it continues to function as an active monastery, hosting religious services, charitable events, and educational programs while honoring its Franciscan roots of humility and devotion.
The church exemplifies late Romanesque style infused with Gothic
ornaments, characterized by a rectangular floor plan, a square
sanctuary, and a single-walled bell tower. Its walls, constructed from
finely cut stone blocks, reflect the skilled craftsmanship of medieval
masons and the Franciscan order's emphasis on austere, functional
design. The facade features a prominent arched portal with intricate
carvings and a rose window above, symbolizing the transition from
Romanesque solidity to Gothic lightness.
The overall structure merges
Gothic forms with Mediterranean building traditions, creating a
harmonious blend that feels both imposing and inviting.
Inside, the
cavernous single-nave basilica boasts a wooden beamed ceiling and stone
walls that evoke a sense of timeless serenity. A standout element is the
mid-15th-century wooden gilded polyptych altarpiece, influenced by the
Venetian Vivarini school—one of Istria's most prized Gothic wooden
sculptures. This elaborate piece depicts a central high-relief of the
Virgin Mary holding Christ, flanked by 12 saintly figures and adorned
with Gothic carved phials. Well-preserved 15th-century frescoes
illustrating scenes from the life of St. Francis adorn the walls, adding
vibrant narrative depth. A functional historic organ enhances the
acoustic ambiance during ceremonies and concerts, while a Gothic chamber
accessible via the cloister reveals a Roman mosaic floor featuring a
hippocampus (a mythical fish-tailed horse) and a swastika symbol, tying
the site to Pula's ancient Roman past.
The adjoining monastery
includes rooms such as a capitular hall, refectory, and sacristy
connected to the choir, all arranged around a tranquil cloister built in
the 15th century. This cloister, with its early Renaissance pillars
adapted from Gothic designs, frames a lush garden that serves as a
peaceful retreat for contemplation. The space features a lapidarium
displaying medieval monuments and replicas of Istrian wall paintings,
along with a floral-motif portal and ancient Roman sarcophagi that
underscore the site's historical layers.
Beyond its architectural merits, the complex holds significant cultural value for European Catholicism, with its majestic main hall and artifacts reflecting Franciscan ideals. It hosts exhibitions, concerts, and community events, making it a living cultural landmark in Pula's historic center. The site's proximity to other landmarks like the Arch of the Sergii enhances its appeal as part of a broader exploration of Pula's Roman and medieval heritage.
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., with services at 9 a.m. weekdays and 11 a.m. Sundays, the monastery welcomes visitors without an entrance fee, though donations support its upkeep. Guided tours are available sporadically—contact in advance for groups—and photography is permitted without flash. Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit, ideally in spring or fall to avoid crowds. Dress modestly and maintain silence, especially during services, to respect its active religious function. The address is Uspon Svetog Franje Asiškog 9, 52100 Pula, and while generally accessible, some garden areas may challenge those with mobility issues.