GRADO
TIP
To get a taste of the city’s turbulent history, visit Caffé degli Specchi. It’s just one of Trieste’s famous cafes, but this old haunt built in 1839 is centrally located in Piazza Unita and has always carried clout as a political, social and literary meeting place.
OTHER DAY TRIPS
Aquileia
Gorizia
Miramare
Palmanova
Venezia (Venice)
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A brief history
It was mostly a military settlement when it was founded by the Romans. Its period of great prosperity came much later, at the time of the Austrian Empire, when it became a major seaport and insurance and navigation companies were founded. Some sections of the city are an example of 18th century urbanization. It was claimed by Yugoslavia after World War II. After many territorial disputes and a long allied occupation, it went back to Italy in 1954.
Today
It’s the major city in the Friuli area. Only a narrow strip of land remains of what was once a vast hinterland; the rest lies in Slovenia and Croatia. However, it's still a busy seaport today and a lively, cosmopolitan city.
Not to miss
The medieval castle of San Giusto (built on Roman foundations), has a collection of weapons and armor and very nice views from the ramparts; the cathedral of San Giusto, near the castle, is a fortress-like medieval building and the symbol of the city; Piazza Unita is very central with elegant buildings. There is also an aquarium on the waterfront and the remains of a Roman theater a few blocks from the pier.
Getting there
Trieste can be reached by train from Cervignano, by APT buses from the Grado bus station and by motorboat from Grado (summer months only and transportation only, these are not day cruises). Parking can be next to impossible in the heart of Trieste, so driving many not be a good idea.
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