Istrian Peninsula, Pula, Croatia January 1997 The southern portion of the mountainous Istrian Peninsula can be seen in this northeast-looking view. The peninsula sits between the Gulf of Venice to the west (left) and the Gulf of Flume to the east (right). Much of the peninsula is thickly forested and is predominantly agricultural. The city of Pula, near the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula, is a major seaport and an industrial center. Shipbuilding is a major industry in Pula. The city also has a major naval base.