The historic capital of the Friuli-Venezi Giulia region, the area around Udine has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. This city of approximately one hundred thousand is situated between the Adriatic Sea and the Alps in northeastern Italy. Legend has it that Attila the Hun created a hill at this site for his winter quarters while besieging Aquileia. He built a town and a square tower. As time passed, the Western Roman Empire came to ruin and the area came under the control of the Patriarchs of Aquileia with a castle being built in 983 AD. Udine at various times was ruled by the Venetians, Austrians, the Kingdom of Italy and even the French and Germans during times of war.
Visitors today can tour the residence of the patriarchs that was built in 1517. They can also see the 18th century frescos in the Gothic church of Santa Maria della Purita built in 1200’s. Cultural tourists can spend time relaxing in the Piazza della Liberta and admire the numerous significant architectural focal points of the city. These include the Venetian-Gothic town hall built in the mid-1400’s, the columns that the bear the images of the Venetian Lion, the Statue of Justice, the Renaissance era Loggia di San Giovanni, the 16th century fountain and the impressive clock tower that is based upon the one in the Piazza San Marco in Venice. The Cathedral of Udine was consecrated in 1335 has a baroque style interior and contains numerous frescos and works of art. History buffs can tour the Venetian Castle that was erected in 1517 on the site of a former Lombard stronghold. The castle is now home to the oldest Parliament House in Europe. Shopping enthusiasts will be thrilled as they walk the cobblestoned Via Mercatovicchio and browse the eclectic mix of shops. Literature aficionados will note that Udine is mentioned in the Hemmingway novel A Farewell to Arms. Whether your interests are culture, history, literature or shopping, Udine has something for everyone.
Udine is an important center of commerce and industry for the area with a concentration in iron and mechanical industries. The local football club was established in 1896. The climate is sub-Mediterranean with an average temperature of 57°F (14°C). There are numerous festivals held throughout the year giving an insight into the traditions and culture of the region. Due to its location the largest demographic group is of Italian descent with immigrant populations from nearby Austria, Croatia and Slovenia. The primary language spoken is Italian, but there is a link to the past as the Friulian dialect is also common. There is a connection to the future with asteroid number 33100 being named Udine in honor of this historic city.
