European Researchers’ Night 2026 Held in Pula!

This year’s programme brought together fields ranging from archaeology and life in ancient Rome to marine science and the wildlife of the Adriatic Sea. Visitors learned about marine organisms, explored the world of insects and discovered topics related to the environment. Children had opportunities to learn through observation, play and hands-on activities, while a performance, music and a pub quiz added to the evening’s programme.

The Department for Mobility, International Relations and Programmes also took part with an EU Corner. Children matched flags to European countries and enjoyed face painting. The activities offered a playful introduction to Europe’s diversity, while Department staff met visitors and shared information about their work.

Researchers, lecturers and students of Juraj Dobrila University of Pula contributed to the programme, alongside participants from Gimnazija Pula and Aquarium Pula. The activities showed how many different questions can be explored in one place—and how engaging science becomes when visitors can see it, try it and speak directly with the people behind the research.

European Researchers’ Night is the central event of Blue Connect 3.0, a project that brings science closer to the public, particularly children and young people. This year’s event took place in five Croatian cities: Pula, Rijeka, Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik.

We thank everyone who prepared the activities and all the visitors whose questions, curiosity and participation made the evening special.