Palmanova

Introduction

Palmanova, in the province of Udine, is one of the most fascinating and recognisable towns in Friuli Venezia Giulia, famous for its perfectly geometric nine-pointed star shape, designed at the end of the 16th century as a military fortress of the Republic of Venice. Situated in the Friulian plain, a few kilometres from the border with Slovenia and not far from the Marano lagoon, it stands in a strategic position that once guaranteed control of trade and military routes between the hinterland and the Adriatic. Today it is a destination of great historical and cultural interest, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2017 along with other Venetian defensive works. Its central square, Piazza Grande, and perfectly radial urban grid make it an urban and architectural unicum, attracting visitors and scholars from all over the world.

Description

The territory of Palmanova is entirely flat, characterised by cultivated fields and reclaimed waterways, with a temperate climate typical of the Friulian plain. The city was founded in 1593 by the Serenissima as a Renaissance 'ideal city', combining aesthetic, defensive and functional criteria: bastions, ravelins, monumental gates and moats formed a defensive system that was avant-garde for the time. Over the centuries, Palmanova came under Napoleonic and then Austrian rule until it was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy in 1866. In addition to its historical value, the town retains valuable buildings such as the Doge's Cathedral of San Marco, built starting in 1603, and the three monumental gates - Porta Udine, Porta Cividale and Porta Aquileia - that still lead to the starry centre.

Palmanova's economy is linked to trade, services and a growing tourism, attracted by its unique urban design and historical re-enactments. Among the best known is the re-enactment 'A.D. 1615 Palma alle armi' (Palmanova at Arms), which brings the 17th century town back to life every September with parades, encampments and duels in costume. The local cuisine offers typical Friulian dishes such as frico, brovada con muset and stuffed pastas, accompanied by Friuli DOC wines.

A visit to Palmanova is an experience of walking through history: the perimeter of the walls, about 3 km long, can be covered on foot or by bicycle, offering unusual perspectives on the starry structure. Inside, an orderly network of streets converges towards Piazza Grande, the heart of town life, often animated by markets, cultural events and concerts. In the surrounding area, cycle routes connect the city to the Marano lagoon and Aquileia, allowing you to explore Friuli's rural landscape.

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