Components of resistance to the pea rust (Uromyces pisi) were studied at the histological level in seedlings of seven pea (Pisum spp.) accessions showing partial resistance under field conditions. Resistance was characterized macroscopically by an increased latent period and a decreased infection frequency in spite of a compatible interaction (high infection type). Histological investigations revealed little differences among accessions in spore germination and appressoria formation, differences being more evident once the stomata were penetrated by the infection structures. Resistance was mainly due to a restriction of haustorium formation with significant levels of early aborted colonies in accessions IFPI3260, PI347321 and PI347347. Furthermore, a reduction in the number of haustoria per colony, hyphal tips per colony and smaller colony size were found in all genotypes studied. Resistance was not associated with early- or late-acting hypersensitivity in any of the genotypes studied.