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Friuli Venezia Giulia is a region rich in historical and cultural treasures, boasting three cities recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Palmanova, Aquileia, and Cividale del Friuli. These cities offer a unique experience, immersing visitors in the millennial history of the region. Additionally, for cycling enthusiasts, there's the opportunity to explore these wonders through the famous Ciclovia Alpe Adria Radweg, a cycling path that connects Grado to Salzburg.

Palmanova: The Star-Fortress City

Palmanova is an Italian municipality located in Friuli Venezia Giulia, just a few kilometers from Udine. Founded by the Republic of Venice in 1593, Palmanova was created with the aim of becoming the most impregnable fortress in the world. Its nine-pointed star shape, from which it gets the name "Città stellata" (in Italian, the "Star-shaped city") was designed for military purposes. Every detail of the city serves a defensive purpose, such as the length of the sides, calculated based on the range of cannons.

The bulwarks along the city walls were designed to deflect cannon shots, thereby reducing the power of attacks. The curtain walls, connecting the bulwarks, were long straight walls that further protected the city. The lodges, built on the tops of the bulwarks, provided protection for the guarding soldiers. Additionally, the city was surrounded by an external moat that stretched for 4 kilometers, connected to the bulwarks by secret transit tunnels. All of this made access to Palmanova practically impossible. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017.

Aquileia: Glorious Roman and Christian Past

Aquileia is a municipality located about 40 kilometers south of Udine. This city was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998 for the importance of its archaeological area and the magnificent floor mosaics it houses. Aquileia was founded in the 2nd century BCE by the Romans and became one of the most important centers of the Roman Empire.

Aquileia was also the capital of the first Lombard duchy in Italy and the seat of a Christian community that contributed to the evangelization of many surrounding regions. The city served as the residence of the Patriarchs of Aquileia and underwent various dominations over the centuries, including Byzantine and Venetian rule. Today, visitors can admire the Roman ruins, ancient mosaics, and evidence of Aquileia's religious significance.

Cividale del Friuli: A Medieval Treasure

Cividale del Friuli is a municipality of about 11,000 inhabitants, located in the province of Udine. This city is a true jewel of Friuli Venezia Giulia, with a millennial history worth exploring. Founded by Julius Caesar in the 2nd century BCE, Cividale has even older origins dating back to the Paleolithic era. The city was the capital of the first Lombard duchy in Italy and also served as the residence of the Patriarchs of Aquileia.

The historic center of Cividale can be explored on foot, admiring the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, built in the 15th century and later rebuilt in Renaissance style. Inside the Cathedral is a Silver Altar, a true masterpiece of medieval Italian goldsmithing. Other points of interest include the Palazzo dei Provveditori Veneti, housing the National Archaeological Museum of Cividale del Friuli, and the Oratory of Santa Maria in Valle, containing the famous Lombard Temple.

The Alpe Adria Cycle Path: Cycling Journey through Friuli Venezia Giulia's Wonders

While exploring the UNESCO cities of Friuli Venezia Giulia, you can also enjoy a unique cycling experience along the Ciclovia Alpe Adria Radwek (Alpe Adria Cycle Path). This cycling route, stretching for 415 kilometers, connects Salzburg, Austria, to Grado, Italy. The route takes you through breathtaking landscapes, Alpine valleys, historic towns, and the beautiful Friulian plain.

The journey begins in Salzburg, a city famous for Mozart's music, and continues through the Salzach Valley and the Gastein Valley. From there, you reach Mallnitz through a short shuttle train ride. The cycle path continues through Carinthia, passing through towns like Spittal an der Drau and Villach before reaching the Italian-Austrian border.

In Italian territory, the cycle path follows the route of the old disused railway line, passing through places like Tarvisio, Gemona, Udine, Aquileia, and finally Grado on the Adriatic coast. During the trip, you'll have the opportunity to admire unique landscapes, discover the history and culture of the region, and savor the delicious Friulian cuisine.

Conclusion

A journey through the UNESCO cities of Friuli Venezia Giulia is an unforgettable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the millennial history of the region. Palmanova, Aquileia, and Cividale del Friuli are three jewels that offer a combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. Additionally, the Ciclovia Alpe Adria Radweg will allow you to explore these wonders by bike, enjoying breathtaking landscapes along the way.

Get ready for a unique adventure in the heart of Friuli Venezia Giulia!


[Photos by: Turismo FVG]