Istrian National Theater, Pula

The Istrian National Theater, situated in Pula, is a prominent cultural institution and city theater established on March 19, 1948, by the National Committee of the City of Pula. The theater operates within the historically significant Politeama Ciscutti building, originally constructed in 1871 and later renamed. This edifice has undergone several phases of renovation, including a significant restoration in 1989 that introduced a new fly tower, enhancing its capacity to host more complex theatrical productions.

The Politeama Ciscutti building was envisioned by Ruggero Berlam and constructed by entrepreneur Pietro Ciscutti. Its design accommodated a wide array of stage and music events, as well as various entertainment activities. Positioned strategically on the border between Pula's historic core and its future modern business center, the theater initially featured an auditorium with a stage, 28 lodges in the mezzanine, and 30 lodges on the first floor, along with additional balconies and galleries.

A historical highlight for the theater was the screening of a "motion picture" on November 28, 1896, making it one of the first venues in Europe to show moving pictures, shortly after their debut in Paris and only a month following Zagreb.

Today, the Istrian National Theater boasts a large hall with a seating capacity of 697. The layout includes an orchestra section in front of the stage, surrounded by a floor area with 316 seats. Encircling this are semicircular mezzanines on the left and right, each providing 46 seats. Above these are matching first-floor sections, and at the top, a balcony split into three parts, accommodating additional spectators. The theater’s modern facilities and historical significance continue to make it a central figure in Pula's cultural landscape, hosting a diverse range of performances and events.