Exploring Friuli-Venezia Giulia: A Family Adventure in Italy

A Day of Discovery in Friuli

Today was a day of delving into the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a region where history and spirituality intertwine with the simple joys of life. Our family embarked on a journey that took us from the dramatic cliffs of Duino Castle to the serene heights of Monte Lussari, with moments of retail therapy and culinary delight sprinkled in between. It was a day of contrasts, of ancient stones and modern comforts, of panoramic vistas and intimate flavors.


Explore the historical beauty and stunning views of Duino Castle, a must-visit destination along the Adriatic Sea in Italy.

Our day began with a leisurely breakfast at our villa. David prepared his famous scrambled eggs, while Emily helped me set the table. It’s these small moments of togetherness that I cherish most during our travels. After breakfast, we set off to explore the Duino Castle, or *Devinski Grad* as it's known locally, perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Trieste.

The castle's history is a tapestry woven from Roman outposts, medieval fortresses, and noble families. Built in the 14th century on the ruins of a Roman military outpost, it has been home to many illustrious figures, including Princess Sissi and Archduke Franz Ferdinand. The castle is still owned by the Princes of Thurn und Taxis, who have opened parts of their home to the public since 2003.

As we walked through the castle's ancient halls, I couldn't help but imagine the lives of those who had walked these same stones centuries ago. The views from the ramparts were simply breathtaking, with the Adriatic Sea stretching out before us in all its winter glory. The brisk sea air invigorated us as we explored the gardens and learned about the castle's connection to the poet Rainer Maria Rilke, who composed his famous *Duino Elegies* here.

The castle of Duino is a place where history, art, and nature converge to create an unforgettable experience.

After immersing ourselves in the history of Duino Castle, we headed to Trieste for a bit of shopping at Torri D'Europa. Emily was eager to explore the shops, while David was on the hunt for a new book. The mall had a wide variety of stores, from fashion retailers to electronics shops. We spent a couple of hours browsing the shops, and Emily managed to find a unique souvenir to remind her of our trip.


Explore Torri D'Europa in Trieste, a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse clothing options for every age, delicious dining, and a lively atmosphere.

For lunch, we ventured to San Daniele del Friuli, renowned for its exquisite prosciutto. We had a delightful meal at La Tavernaccia - Hosteria l'Altra Campana - Prosciutteria Ristorantino. The hosteria had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff was incredibly welcoming. We savored the local prosciutto, along with other regional specialties. David and I shared a bottle of Friulano wine, while Emily enjoyed a refreshing *succo di frutta*.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Tavernaccia in San Daniele del Friuli – home to exquisite prosciutto and delightful local flavors.

With our appetites sated, we embarked on the afternoon's main adventure: a visit to the Sanctuary of Monte Lussari. This sacred site, perched high in the Julian Alps, has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. As we drove towards Tarvisio, the landscape transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered peaks and frosted forests.


Discover the Sanctuary of Monte Lussari, a breathtaking pilgrimage site in the Julian Alps, blending spirituality with stunning mountain views.

We took a cable car up to the sanctuary, and the views from above were simply stunning. The sanctuary itself is a beautiful church with a fascinating history. Legend has it that the Virgin Mary appeared on this spot in the 14th century, leading to the construction of a chapel. The current church, built in the 15th and 16th centuries, attracts pilgrims from Italian, German, and Slovenian origins.

The air was crisp and cold as we explored the sanctuary and its surroundings. We lit candles and offered a prayer for our family's well-being. The sense of peace and serenity was palpable, and I felt a deep connection to the generations of pilgrims who had come here before us. The easternmost peaks of the Alps have been the natural border between the Latin, German and Slav worlds since time immemorial.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to San Daniele del Friuli for dinner at Ristorante Centopassi. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Friulian cuisine. We started with *Gamberi Bardati al Prosciutto di San Daniele*, followed by *Spaghetto al Tonno Fresco e Zucchine*. Each dish was a celebration of local flavors, and we savored every bite.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Centopassi in San Daniele del Friuli, where every dish tells a story.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Forte di Osoppo and the Val Rosandra Nature Reserve. I am excited to see what new adventures await us as we continue our journey through this beautiful region of Italy.

The weather in Friuli-Venezia Giulia in December is quite cold, with average temperatures ranging from 35°F to 48°F. We have experienced moderate rainfall, with about half the month expecting rain. It is important to pack warm clothing and be prepared for wet conditions. Despite the weather, the region's beauty and charm make it a worthwhile destination.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these moments with my family. Friuli-Venezia Giulia is a region that truly captivates the senses, and I am eager to uncover more of its hidden treasures in the days to come. It's a place where the past and present dance together, creating a symphony of experiences that resonate deep within the soul. The region is full of Christmas events during this time of the year. We might check some of them out in the next few days.

Goodnight from Friuli!