Udine is in East Central Friuli Venezia Giulia. The province shares its northern border with Austria and its eastern one with Slovenia, while the edge of its territory to the South is marked by the Adriatic coast. It stretches from Lignano Sabbiadoro beach to the Julian and Carnic Prealps and Alps.

As well as natural wonders, the province boasts significant cultural heritage due to its complex, troubled history. It is home to archaeological sites such as Aquileia and a number of important towns, including Cividale del Friuli and Palmanova. Numerous villas, towers, abbeys and castles are dotted across the countryside and the hills. Udine itself is a peaceful city. Shopping lovers will be in heaven on Via Rialto. The main monuments and historical buildings can be found in Piazza Libertà, which is at the heart of the old town centre.

Places of interest:

• Built in 1448, the Loggia del Lionello is an enchanting piece of Gothic Venetian architecture.
• The Statue of Peace was presented as a gift from Francis I, Emperor of Austria, when the Treaty of Campo Formio was signed.
• The Clock Tower, on top of which two Moors have stood since 1850.
• The Castle, which is a graceful Renaissance palace surrounded by greenery. Following a fire in 1511, it was rebuilt from 1517 to 1595.
• Discover the works of Giambattista Tiepolo on a tour that takes you from the Cathedral and the nearby Oratorio della Purità to the Archbishop’s Palace and the Hall of the Patria del Friuli Parliament.

Things to taste:

• Rice, beans and vegetables play a big part in Udine’s cuisine. .
• Udine is known for “cjalzons”: ravioli filled with cheese, eggs and vegetables.
• Other traditional dishes include “frico” (made with fried Montasio cheese), omelettes with herbs, and sausages with polenta.

• Prosciutto di San Daniele and Prosciutto di Sauris are internationally renowned types of ham from the local area.
• “Gubana” is an eye-catching type of cake that is traditionally made in the Natisone valleys with walnuts, liqueurs and spices.
• A wide range of delicious, renowned wines are made in the province, including Merlot, Cabernet, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Picolit, which is a rare delight.