Family Adventure in Trieste: Exploring History and Culture

A Day of Remembrance, Wonder, and Light

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey through the somber echoes of history, the awe-inspiring grandeur of nature, and the uplifting promise of hope. Trieste, you continue to surprise and captivate us. From poignant memorials to breathtaking vistas, today was a powerful reminder of the diverse experiences that shape our travels and our understanding of the world.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Savoy Restaurant. The reviews online were right; the food was delicious, and the atmosphere was indeed classy. It was a great way to start a busy day of exploring. Ethan was particularly fond of the croissants, and Olivia enjoyed the strong Italian coffee, which she needed! I opted for the pork, which was fantastic.


Experience exquisite Italian dining at Savoy Restaurant in Trieste—where local flavors meet stunning waterfront views.

San Sabba Rice Mill National Monument and Museum: A Stark Reminder

Our first stop was the San Sabba Rice Mill National Monument and Museum. It was a profoundly moving experience. As many sources mention, this former rice mill was transformed into a Nazi concentration camp during World War II, serving as a place of detention and transit for political prisoners and Jews. It’s the only camp in Italy that had cremation facilities. Walking through the grounds, you could feel the weight of history, a stark reminder of the atrocities that occurred within those walls.


Discover the poignant history of the San Sabba Rice Mill National Monument and Museum, a vital site of remembrance in Trieste, Italy.

The museum is incredibly well-curated, with photographs, documents, and artifacts that tell the stories of the victims and the horrors they endured. It was particularly impactful to see the outlines of the barracks and crematorium, solemnly traced in metal and stone, marking the absence of what once was. Ethan, thankfully, is still young enough not to fully grasp the extent of the horror, but it opened up a conversation about the importance of remembering history and standing against injustice.

Visiting San Sabba was a somber but essential experience, a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable cruelty.

It's sobering to think that this place, now a monument to remembrance, was once a site of unimaginable suffering. The EHRI (European Holocaust Research Infrastructure) helped uncover important aspects of the history of Risiera di San Sabba, which had been unknown for 80 years. It’s crucial that we continue to research and document these events, ensuring that the stories of the victims are never forgotten. As we left, we carried a heavy sense of responsibility to remember and to learn from this dark chapter in history.

Grotta Gigante: Into the Depths of Wonder

After such a heavy morning, we needed a change of scenery, and what better way than to descend into the earth? We drove to Grotta Gigante, a giant cave located in the Italian province of Trieste. The drive itself was scenic, winding through the karst region, offering glimpses of the stunning landscape. Upon arrival, we were immediately struck by the sheer size of the entrance.


Discover Grotta Gigante, one of the world's largest caves, featuring stunning rock formations and a fascinating underground world in the heart of Trieste.

Grotta Gigante, as many reviews highlight, is one of the largest natural caves in the world. Descending into the cave, I felt like we were entering another world. The dimensions are staggering: 107 meters high, 65 meters wide, and 130 meters long. The kids were awestruck, their initial trepidation replaced by wide-eyed wonder. The cave was first explored in 1840 and opened to the public in 1908, and it’s been beautifully furnished and equipped since, with picturesque lighting accentuating its most interesting features.

Our guide led us through the cave, pointing out the bizarre stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millennia. Ethan was particularly fascinated by the “Ruggiero Column,” a 12-meter-high stalagmite. Olivia, ever the scientist, peppered the guide with questions about the cave's geological history and formation. The temperature inside the cave was noticeably cooler, a welcome respite from the warm June day. The standard tour took about 45 minutes, and by the end, we were all thoroughly impressed by the natural beauty and grandeur of Grotta Gigante. It's also a world platform for sports and scientific speleology, as well as a research point for the movements and vibrations of the earth's crust. What a place!

The scale of Grotta Gigante is truly humbling. It’s hard to fathom the forces of nature and the passage of time that have created such a magnificent space. As we climbed back up, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of connection to the earth and a renewed appreciation for its hidden wonders.

Victory Lighthouse: A Beacon of Hope

Our final stop for the day was the Victory Lighthouse (Faro della Vittoria), perched on the Gretta Hill. After the darkness of San Sabba and the depths of Grotta Gigante, it felt fitting to end the day with a visit to a beacon of light and hope.


Discover the historic Victory Lighthouse in Trieste, Italy, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into maritime heritage.

The Victory Lighthouse, as its name suggests, commemorates the fallen soldiers of World War I and celebrates the annexation of Trieste to the Kingdom of Italy. Designed by Arduino Berlam, its construction began in 1923 and was completed in 1927. Standing at 68 meters, it’s one of the tallest lighthouses in the world. We climbed the 285 steps to reach the top, and let me tell you, the view was worth every single step!

From the top, we had a panoramic view of Trieste and the Gulf. The city stretched out before us, a tapestry of red-tiled roofs and winding streets, framed by the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Ethan was thrilled to spot the cruise ships in the harbor, while Olivia pointed out the various landmarks we had visited over the past few days. The Winged Victory statue atop the lighthouse gleamed in the afternoon sun, a symbol of triumph and resilience. The lighthouse serves as an active lighthouse, guiding ships into the Gulf of Trieste. It felt reassuring to know that this monument not only commemorates the past but also serves a vital function in the present.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the city, we descended from the lighthouse, our hearts full of awe and gratitude. The Victory Lighthouse is more than just a monument; it’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring human spirit.

A Culinary Conclusion

For dinner, we chose Osteria Salvagente, and it was a fantastic choice. This small osteria, tucked away on a quiet side street, offered a cozy and authentic dining experience. The food was delicious, with fresh fish and local dishes that had a homemade feel. I tried the gnocchi with seafood sauce, and it was incredible. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the staff were friendly and attentive. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with intense emotions and breathtaking sights. According to online reviews, it’s a legendary restaurant in the middle of the city, and I can see why!


Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Osteria Salvagente in Trieste, where Italian and seafood dishes come together in a cozy atmosphere.

As we walked back to Hotel Italia, reflecting on the day's experiences, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore Trieste with my family. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Bora Museum, Civico Museo Sartorio, and Unity of Italy Square. I’m particularly excited about the Bora Museum, as I’ve heard it offers a fascinating insight into the unique weather phenomenon that shapes this region. We’ll also try out Mimì e Cocotte for breakfast, Ristorante Trieste Mood for lunch, and Trattoria Da Giovanni for dinner.


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

Trieste, you’ve given us so much to think about and appreciate. From the depths of history to the heights of hope, you’ve shown us the power of remembrance, the wonder of nature, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. I'm so glad we’re experiencing this together as a family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

We might even try to find La Tana del Bianconiglio tomorrow, as Ethan would love to see the vintage books there. It seems like a charming little shop, perfect for a little afternoon browsing. We’ll see what tomorrow brings!


Explore La Tana del Bianconiglio in Trieste for unique gifts, home goods, and local artistry that encapsulate the charm of this beautiful city.