historical places of
Friuli Venezia Giulia

What to expect

Friuli Venezia Giulia is a region rich in history and culture, characterized by a unique and varied historical and monumental heritage. Among the hills, cities of art and mountains, there are numerous monuments and places that tell of the region’s fascinating past. From Roman ruins to churches, from medieval fortresses to wartime forts and bunkers, this region offers a journey through eras and cultures that fascinates and surprises. Read our reviews to learn more.

Historic sites of national interest

4776
Rated 4.7 out of 5

Aquileia

Aquileia was an important and wealthy city of the Roman Empire and, thanks to countless archaeological excavations, this unique and historically rich place has returned to its former glory and can be visited in its entirety.
5984
Rated 4.7 out of 5

Diga del Vajont

The dam rises in the municipality of Erto and Casso in the province of Pordenone, along the Vajont stream. For nearly 20 years, the dam has been reopened for the public to visit this place.
5500
Rated 4.6 out of 5

Palmanova

The fortress city offers the privilege of admiring its still intact 16th-century walls. The plant, which forms a 9-pointed star, makes this place unique in the world, so much so that it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5410
Rated 4.6 out of 5

Risiera of San Sabba

The Risiera di San Sabba is a tragically well-known place of great visual eloquence. The Risiera di San Sabba Civic Museum was declared a National Monument in 1965. The memorial has immense historical importance and is the only example of a Nazi Lager in Italy.

2669
Rated 4.6 out of 5

Faro della Vittoria

The impressive national monument is managed by the Navy, which, in agreement with the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, has agreed to open it to the public and, as of March 30, 2024, it can be visited freely.

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Historical sites of the Great War

521
Rated 4.8 out of 5

Forte del Monte Festa

This fortified mountain is an extraordinary place. The ascent through the tunnels, the fort’s location at the top of the mountain, and the natural surroundings make this hike unique.

521
Rated 4.6 out of 5

Il forte di osoppo

The Osoppo fort is a vast and interesting open-air museum and archaeological complex. This is a perfect half-day excursion, perhaps as a family, as it is suitable for everyone.
849
Rated 4.7 out of 5

Mount Kolovrat Trenches

What was “The Third Line of Italian Defense” at 1115 meters today has become the Kolovrat Open Air Museum. Historic trails have been restored and made accessible, so that the trenches and fortifications of World War I are now a museum available to all.

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1035
Rated 4.7 out of 5

Santuario di redipuglia

Redipuglia is the largest military shrine in Italy. The massive monument, with its majestic architecture, is a reminder of the tragic events that cost the lives of so many men during World War I.

714
Rated 4.6 out of 5

Forte di Col Badin

Col Badin Fort, dating back to 1904 was erected as a defense post on the Italian-Austrian border. Today, it has been restored and houses a museum, bar/restaurant and guesthouse.
369
Rated 4.5 out of 5

Ara Pacis Mundi

On Medea Hill stands a monumental work, the Ara Pacis Mundi, magnificent and imposing with its 1500 square metre structure dedicated to the peace of all peoples,

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68
Rated 4.4 out of 5

Forte Monte Bernadia

On the summit of Bernadia, at 866 meters, stands the Fort of Mount Bernadia-Monte Lonza, an imposing three-story defensive structure. From the parking lot of the fort there is a splendid view of the Julian Pre-Alps and the Friulian plain.

Religious places

388
Rated 4.7 out of 5

Castelmonte

The Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Castelmonte stands at a height of 618 meters. It is a place of great spirituality, a pilgrimage destination and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valley below.
57
Rated 4.8 out of 5

Pieve di San Floriano

The Pieve di San Floriano overlooks the But Valley and the Illegio basin. The view is amazing. The gaze is lost in the green of the dense forests, follows the course of the Tagliamento River and flies over the peaks that frame the valley.

2261
Rated 4.5 out of 5

Santuario di Monte Grisa

The shrine is located on the top of Mount Grisa, surrounded by a forest full of paths with many scenic spots. It is a pilgrimage destination and can be reached by car, bus or on foot.
587
Rated 4.6 out of 5

Abbazia di Rosazzo

Among the eastern hills of Friuli, an area of excellence in Friuli Venezia Giulia, rich in vineyards and olive groves, stands solitary the Rose Monastery, so called the Abbey of Rosazzo.

7
Rated 5 out of 5

Chiesetta San Michele

The church probably dates back to the 13th century, but is said to have been built on the foundations of a pagan temple from the Longobard era.

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Other historical places to visit

10
Rated 4.6 out of 5

Galleria ghiacciaia resiutta

Already in the 19th century, the ice industry was essential. The gallery remains as a testament to this custom and has been open to visitors since 2014.
5
Rated 4.8 out of 5

Torre Moscarda

Passing through the area of Paluzza, one’s attention is caught by an imposing tower standing out against the mountain panorama. This is the recently renovated Moscarda Tower, which can be accessed from the Alpine Botanical Garden in Paluzza.
133
Rated 4.8 out of 5

Stavoli di Orias

In the Pesarina Valley, known as the ‘Valley of Time’ for its long tradition of watchmaking, there is a place where time has stood still: the stávoli of Orias.

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