Family Adventure in Trieste: Exploring History and Culture

A Fond Farewell to Trieste

As our family adventure in Trieste draws to a close, I wanted to dedicate our last day to soaking in the city’s rich history, natural beauty, and poignant reminders of the past. It’s a bittersweet feeling, knowing our time here is ending, but I’m determined to make the most of every moment.

Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at Mangia E Fuggi. This cozy spot was recommended by several locals, and it didn't disappoint.
The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the staff incredibly friendly, and the food was simple, yet delicious. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. Ethan was particularly thrilled with his *cornetto* filled with Nutella, and Olivia enjoyed a strong cappuccino to kickstart her morning. I opted for a traditional *frico* (a savory cheese and potato cake) which was absolutely divine. What a great way to start the day!

First on our agenda was the majestic Castello di San Giusto, perched atop the San Giusto hill. As we made our way up, the panoramic views of Trieste and the Adriatic Sea unfolded before us, each step revealing a new breathtaking vista. I couldn’t resist snapping photos at every turn, trying to capture the essence of this stunning city. The walk itself was a pleasant climb, and Ethan, ever the energetic one, raced ahead, eager to explore the castle grounds.
Reaching the castle, we were immediately struck by its imposing presence. The Castello di San Giusto has a fascinating history. Originally built by the Habsburgs in the 15th century, it stands as a symbol of Trieste's resilience and strategic importance over the centuries. We explored the castle museum, filled with artifacts and exhibits that brought the history of Trieste to life. Ethan was captivated by the displays of medieval armor and weaponry, while Olivia and I were drawn to the exhibits detailing the city's complex relationship with the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Venice. The architecture itself was stunning, a blend of different styles reflecting the various periods of construction and renovation. Walking along the ramparts, I imagined what life must have been like for the soldiers stationed here, guarding the city against invaders. The views from the bastions were simply unparalleled, offering a 360-degree panorama of Trieste and its surroundings.
The castle is deeply interwoven into Trieste’s identity and I could see why locals come here to stroll, reflect and celebrate! Its connection to the Cathedral of San Giusto enhances the spiritual and historical resonance of the area.
I found myself reflecting on the layers of history embedded in every stone, a testament to the enduring spirit of Trieste. And I managed to grab a few more photos!


Explore the historical marvel of Castello di San Giusto, a captivating fortress with stunning views and rich history in the heart of Trieste.

Trieste is a city where history, nature, and remembrance intertwine, creating a tapestry of experiences that resonate long after you've left.

After immersing ourselves in history, we sought solace in nature at the Municipal Botanical Garden. Located a short distance from the city center, this tranquil oasis offered a welcome respite from the urban bustle. As we entered the garden, we were greeted by a riot of colors and scents, a sensory feast that immediately calmed our minds. The garden is home to an impressive collection of plants from around the world, carefully curated and beautifully displayed. We strolled along winding paths, discovering hidden groves and serene ponds. Ethan was particularly fascinated by the exotic plants in the greenhouses, marveling at their strange shapes and vibrant hues. Olivia, with her background in nursing, was drawn to the medicinal plants, reading the informative plaques with interest. For me, it was simply a joy to wander through this green sanctuary, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the beauty of nature. The Municipal Botanical Garden truly offers a space to sit and take a breath with beautiful plants around you.
We even found a quiet bench where we sat for a while, simply enjoying the peace and quiet. It was a perfect moment of serenity, a chance to recharge our batteries before continuing our exploration of Trieste. I feel refreshed and ready for our next exploration!


Explore the lush beauty and serenity of Trieste's Municipal Botanical Garden, a perfect escape for nature lovers and a haven of tranquility.

Our final stop of the day was the Trieste War Memorial, a poignant reminder of the city's sacrifices during World War I. Located near the Castello di San Giusto, the memorial stands as a solemn tribute to the soldiers who fell in the conflict. As we approached the monument, a sense of reverence washed over us. The imposing statues, depicting soldiers in the midst of battle, conveyed the grim reality of war with stark realism. The inscription on the base, Trieste / to the fallen soldiers / in the war of liberation / MCMXV - MCMXVIII, spoke volumes about the city's complex history and its struggle for identity. It was inaugurated in 1935 before King Victor Emmanuel III. I found myself reflecting on the human cost of war, the countless lives lost in the pursuit of freedom and self-determination. Ethan, though young, seemed to grasp the gravity of the moment, standing quietly beside me as we paid our respects. Olivia, ever compassionate, laid a small bouquet of flowers at the base of the monument, a gesture of remembrance and gratitude. The monument is over 5m high and represents 5 men engaged in a dramatic war scene. Three of them carry a wounded comrade while the fifth soldier protects them with a shield.
The monument serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the importance of preserving peace.
It was a somber but important experience, a reminder of the importance of remembering the past and honoring those who have given their lives for their country.
I think it is important to teach Ethan about the sacrifices of the past, and for him to understand the importance of peace.


Discover the Trieste War Memorial, a stunning tribute surrounded by nature, offering breathtaking views and a poignant reminder of history.

As evening approached, we made our way to Al Porton for a final Triestine dinner. This charming restaurant, recommended for its seafood, was the perfect place to celebrate our last night in the city. The atmosphere was cozy and intimate, the service impeccable, and the food absolutely divine. Olivia and I shared a platter of grilled seafood, savoring the fresh flavors of the Adriatic. Ethan, ever the adventurous eater, tried the *spaghetti alle vongole* (spaghetti with clams) and declared it his new favorite dish. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel like part of their family. The fish was of high quality and expertly prepared, and the homemade desserts were a real temptation!
It was a fitting end to our culinary journey through Trieste, a celebration of the city's gastronomic delights. What a perfect way to say goodbye!


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Al Porton in Trieste, specializing in fresh seafood and local flavors within an inviting atmosphere.

To cap off our final evening, we decided to visit Gran Malabar for a taste of local wine. This cozy bar, known for its extensive selection of Friulian wines, was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on our experiences in Trieste. We sampled a few different varieties, each one offering a unique expression of the region's terroir. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, with locals and tourists mingling and chatting over glasses of wine. Ethan, of course, stuck to sparkling water, but he enjoyed the ambiance and the opportunity to people-watch. I chatted with the bartender, learning about the history of winemaking in Friuli and the unique characteristics of the local grapes. Olivia, meanwhile, struck up a conversation with a group of Italian tourists, sharing stories and laughter. This spot is super local, with everyone just hanging out, chatting and enjoying the wine.It was the perfect way to end our day, a taste of local flavor and a chance to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Trieste. Gran Malabar is known for its extensive wine selection, with 600-700 different varieties!
We enjoyed the friendly service and the refreshing drinks, accompanied by the free snacks. It was a great way to end our final day in Trieste.


Discover Trieste's charming Gran Malabar, a wine bar offering exquisite regional selections and a cozy ambiance for every wine enthusiast.

As we walked back to Hotel Italia, hand in hand, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Our family adventure in Trieste had been everything I had hoped for and more. We had explored ancient castles, wandered through serene gardens, paid homage to fallen soldiers, and savored the flavors of local cuisine. But most importantly, we had created lasting memories together, memories that we would cherish for years to come.
I feel so lucky to have shared this experience with Olivia and Ethan.
Trieste, with its unique blend of Italian and Austro-Hungarian influences, had captured our hearts and souls. It was a city that I knew we would never forget.

Tomorrow, we will be heading home, back to Hawthorne and our familiar routines. But a part of me will always remain in Trieste, wandering through its ancient streets, breathing in its salty air, and savoring its rich history and culture. Until next time, Trieste, *arrivederci*!


Discover the charm of Trieste at Hotel Italia – a welcoming haven with modern amenities, perfect for family vacations and solo getaways.