Discover pastel-colored Venetian piazzas, Grecian statues and Roman columns in Udine. The medieval center of this city, which was ruled by Venice for almost 400 years, is filled with elegant Gothic Venetian-style architecture. Look for historic buildings including a castle, town hall and various churches.
Admire the Renaissance-era buildings and structures on Piazza della Libertà (Freedom Square), one of the prettiest squares in the city. Notice the impressive clock tower, columns and statues.
Ascend a hill in Udine’s old town to reach the magnificent Castello. This castle is not the original, but a replacement structure built after a devastating earthquake in the early 16th century. Examine a collection of objects unearthed locally inside the castle’s Museo Archeologico. The castle also contains the art-focused Galleria d'Arte Antica and the Museo del Risorgimento, which is devoted to the history of Friuli.
Nearby Chiesa di Santa Maria di Castello is one of the oldest churches in the city. Study the exquisite façade, which was rebuilt by renowned Italian painter and architect Gaspare Negro, following a 16th-century earthquake. Enter inside to see stunning frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
Continue your cultural explorations at the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Browse modern masterpieces by 20th-century Italian artists. The three-level museum is located in a 16th-century building in the historic heart of Udine. Among the notable works hung here are pieces by artists such as Morandi, Campigli and De Chirico.
Stroll through the Orto Botanico Friulano, a beautiful botanical garden with collections of succulents and ferns. The gardens also feature tropical, desert and local plant species.
Most restaurants in Udine serve traditional Friuli cuisine, which has strong Austrian and Central European influences. Common foods include hearty soups and dumplings.
Udine is a peaceful Italian city with exceptional food and many cultural and historic attractions. It is located about 82 miles (132 kilometers) from Venice.