Friuli-Venezia Giulia is one of Italy's 20 regions, located in the northeastern part of the country. It is bordered by Austria to the north, Slovenia to the east, the Adriatic Sea to the south, and the Veneto region to the west. The region's capital and largest city is Trieste.
Covering an area of 7,858 square kilometers, the region is one of the smallest in Italy, with a population around 1.2 million.
The region is known for its diverse cultural heritage, being home to Italian, Slovenian, Austrian, and Croatian influences. This blend of cultures is reflected in the language, cuisine, architecture, and customs of the area.
The Friuli-Venezia Giulia region has a variegated climate, ranging from the coastal Mediterranean climate in the southern part, to the Alpine climate in the north, home to the Carnic and Julian Alps.
Its economy is one of the most developed in Italy, with sectors such as industry, services, agriculture, and tourism equally contributing. The region is also known for its wine production, particularly its white wines.
It has a rich natural heritage, with diverse landscapes that include mountains, hills, plains and coastal areas. It includes several protected areas and nature reserves, and is crossed by major rivers such as the Tagliamento and Isonzo.
The region's history stretches back to ancient times, and over the centuries has been dominated by various powers, including the Romans, the Byzantines, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This history is reflected in the region's many castles, archaeological sites, and historic cities.
Friuli-Venezia Giulia also boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the ancient Roman city of Aquileia and the Dolomites mountain range. The blend of natural beauty and historical richness makes this region a fascinating and diverse destination.
