The mosaic was discovered by chance during the reconstruction of Pula following World War II damage.
It is one of the few surviving examples of domestic floor art from the Roman city of Pola.
The central figure, Dirce, is tied to a bull as punishment for her cruel treatment of Antiope.
The artwork demonstrates the high level of Hellenistic influence on Roman decorative art in the Adriatic region.
It is displayed protected by a glass structure that allows viewing from the street level.
The Punishment of Dirce is a rare Roman-era floor mosaic discovered in 1959 during the clearing of rubble from a destroyed building in Pula's city center. It depicts a scene from the Greek myth of Dirce, who was tied to a wild bull by Amphion and Zethus. The mosaic covers an area of approximately 12 square meters and is preserved in situ within a protective structure. It is categorized as a fine example of 3rd-century decorative flooring. The geometric borders feature intricate patterns typical of the Roman period in Istria. Because it is located in the heart of the city's old district, it remains accessible to the public as an outdoor archaeological exhibit.
Directly in front of the protective glass panel, using a polarizing filter to reduce glare.
Look for the display window at street level while walking through the pedestrian zone.
Combine this visit with other nearby Roman ruins, such as the Temple of Augustus.
Visit during daylight hours to ensure the interior illumination is visible through the protective glass.
Do not overlook the site; it is a small, street-level installation easily missed if you are only looking for large monuments.
