Palmanova
Palmanova
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Latest page update: 12 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Palmanova in Friuli Venezia Giulia was created as an ideal city of the Renaissance at the end of the sixteenth century. An extraordinary mix between Utopian ideals and military strength, it's a fortress town constructed in the shape of a nine-pointed star.
Palmanova has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 2017 and is listed among the Borghi Più Belli d'Italia. |
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What People Ask About Palmanova
What is Palmanova known for?
Is Palmanova worth visiting?
What are the top things to see in Palmanova?
How do I get to Palmanova?
Why was Palmanova built in a star shape?
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Palmanova: The Star-Shaped Venetian Utopia
Palmanova is situated in the north-eastern Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, around 20 kilometres from the international border with Slovenia which lies to its east. Until 2017 it was part of the Udine Province which then disbanded and gave way to the UTI Agro Aquileiese in a new system of Intercomunal Territorial Unions.
The dominant city in the local area is Udine which lies 17 kilometres to the north of Palmanova, while the two large towns of Gorizia and Monfalcone lie a similar distance to the east and south east respectively. Five kilometres to the east of the town is the River Torre while the northern Adriatic Coast lies 17 kilometres directly south.
The dominant city in the local area is Udine which lies 17 kilometres to the north of Palmanova, while the two large towns of Gorizia and Monfalcone lie a similar distance to the east and south east respectively. Five kilometres to the east of the town is the River Torre while the northern Adriatic Coast lies 17 kilometres directly south.
Brief history
Just as in the name of the caption above, Palmanova's history is indeed brief, certainly by Italian standards. It was established in 1593 by the Venetian Republic as part of the defences against the Ottoman Turks to the east. Compare this with the many provincial towns in Italy that date back to Antiquity with the Romans, Greeks or Etruscans, and we see that Palmanova is a relatively new town.
The Renaissance was in full flourish by the time Palmanova was founded and the Humanist ideas of the period were fundamental to its creation. Palmanova was designed to the the ideal city, or Utopia, whose citizens would have everything they needed to sustain their agricultural, mercantile and spiritual needs.
During a period of shifting geopolitical patterns, threat of invasion or war was never far away and integral to Palmanova's development was the need for security. The town was built in an extraordinary shape of a nine-pointed star, something that can only be perceived properly from above. The shape allowed for defensive positions at the end of each star that were able to protect the fortifications to either side.
The town was enclosed by a system of ramparts behind a moat, pinned together by three city gates called the Porta Aquileia, Porta Cividale and Porta Udine. The system of fortifications were what earned Palmanova its UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2017, under the inscription: Venetian Works of Defence between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra – Western Stato da Mar, along with Bergamo and Peschiera del Garda in Italy, and three further sites split between Croatia and Montenegro.
Just as in the name of the caption above, Palmanova's history is indeed brief, certainly by Italian standards. It was established in 1593 by the Venetian Republic as part of the defences against the Ottoman Turks to the east. Compare this with the many provincial towns in Italy that date back to Antiquity with the Romans, Greeks or Etruscans, and we see that Palmanova is a relatively new town.
The Renaissance was in full flourish by the time Palmanova was founded and the Humanist ideas of the period were fundamental to its creation. Palmanova was designed to the the ideal city, or Utopia, whose citizens would have everything they needed to sustain their agricultural, mercantile and spiritual needs.
During a period of shifting geopolitical patterns, threat of invasion or war was never far away and integral to Palmanova's development was the need for security. The town was built in an extraordinary shape of a nine-pointed star, something that can only be perceived properly from above. The shape allowed for defensive positions at the end of each star that were able to protect the fortifications to either side.
The town was enclosed by a system of ramparts behind a moat, pinned together by three city gates called the Porta Aquileia, Porta Cividale and Porta Udine. The system of fortifications were what earned Palmanova its UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2017, under the inscription: Venetian Works of Defence between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra – Western Stato da Mar, along with Bergamo and Peschiera del Garda in Italy, and three further sites split between Croatia and Montenegro.
Sightseeing
Individual sights are thin on the ground but it's the town itself and its layout which is the cause of most interest. At the heart of everything is the main square: Piazza Grande. It is in fact a huge square, or better to say pentagon, with the large open space designed to be a focal point for the community. Around the edges of the Piazza are a series of brightly coloured buildings, some of which house shops, restaurants and bars. Without question the main building of interest here is the Duomo, Palmanova's beautiful Renaissance cathedral, finished in 1636.
A series of four sets of concentric streets spread out from Piazza Grande, following the same geometric patterns, eventually spreading to the outer ramparts. There are various points where you can explore the ramparts and walk around them, to really get a feel of how they worked within the idea of the star-shaped fort.
Individual sights are thin on the ground but it's the town itself and its layout which is the cause of most interest. At the heart of everything is the main square: Piazza Grande. It is in fact a huge square, or better to say pentagon, with the large open space designed to be a focal point for the community. Around the edges of the Piazza are a series of brightly coloured buildings, some of which house shops, restaurants and bars. Without question the main building of interest here is the Duomo, Palmanova's beautiful Renaissance cathedral, finished in 1636.
A series of four sets of concentric streets spread out from Piazza Grande, following the same geometric patterns, eventually spreading to the outer ramparts. There are various points where you can explore the ramparts and walk around them, to really get a feel of how they worked within the idea of the star-shaped fort.
Comune di Palmanova
Palmanova is an official municipality (comune) of just over five thousand inhabitants. It covers a total area of thirteen square kilometres and stands at an elevation of 27 metres above sea level. Within the Comune of Palmanova there are three smaller villages known as frazioni: Jalmicco, Sottoselva and San Marco.
The town's highlights include its Cathedral, the main square Piazza Grande and the bastions that form the outer defensive system. The local cuisine includes Uardi e Fasùj which is a dialect term meaning barley and beans (Orzo e Fagioli in Italian). Another favourite is Fico which is a savoury tart made of cheese and potatoes. The best-rated restaurant in Palmanova is the Pizzeria al Gambero and the recommended accommodation is the Hotel Ai Dogi whose entrance lies just off Piazza Grande.
The town's highlights include its Cathedral, the main square Piazza Grande and the bastions that form the outer defensive system. The local cuisine includes Uardi e Fasùj which is a dialect term meaning barley and beans (Orzo e Fagioli in Italian). Another favourite is Fico which is a savoury tart made of cheese and potatoes. The best-rated restaurant in Palmanova is the Pizzeria al Gambero and the recommended accommodation is the Hotel Ai Dogi whose entrance lies just off Piazza Grande.
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Territory: UTI Agro Aquileiese
Region: Friuli Venezia Giulia Population: 5,334 (in 2024 - source) Total size: 13 km² Elevation: 27 metres Top sights: Palmanova Cathedral, Piazza Grande, Ramparts What to eat: Uardi e Fasùj (Orzo e Fagioli), Frico, Salami |
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UNESCO World Heritage Site
Venetian Works of Defence Between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra - Western Stato da Mar Year: 2017 |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Una Stella a Nove Punte (A Nine-Pointed Star) |
My recommended accommodation options for Palmanova:
- Hotel Cjave Located near the historic centre of Palmanova, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving traditional Friulian cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, excellent service, and proximity to Palmanova’s main attractions, including the iconic star-shaped fortifications. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Palmanova Situated just outside the town centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, the personal touch of the hosts, and the easy access to Palmanova’s historical sites and nearby nature reserves. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Ristorante al Gelso Set in a tranquil location near Palmanova, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding countryside, a restaurant serving local dishes, and a bar. Guests enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, friendly service, and the short drive to both Palmanova’s attractions and the nearby vineyards. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Tenuta Sant'Elena Located a short drive from Palmanova, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with scenic views of the Friulian countryside, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests appreciate the rural setting, the authentic Friulian experience, and the short drive to Palmanova’s historical landmarks and nearby hiking trails. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Borgo Tissano Set in a peaceful location near Palmanova, this bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms with scenic views, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests enjoy the warm hospitality from the hosts, the quiet environment, and the easy access to Palmanova’s historical sites and surrounding outdoor activities. €€ (mid-range)
My recommended restaurants for Palmanova:
- Trattoria Al Castello: Located in the heart of Palmanova, Trattoria Al Castello offers traditional Friulian and Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Known for its hearty dishes such as risotto, meat stews, and homemade pastas, it provides an authentic and rustic atmosphere. The friendly service and traditional flavours make it a great spot for a casual yet satisfying meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante La Tavola Rotonda: Situated just outside Palmanova, in the town of Mortegliano, Ristorante La Tavola Rotonda offers refined Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Known for its seasonal menu and creative presentations, the restaurant serves dishes like risotto with truffle, grilled meats, and fresh seafood. The elegant setting and exceptional service make it a great choice for a special occasion. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria Ai Do Zati: Located in nearby Udine, Osteria Ai Do Zati is a traditional Friulian osteria that serves classic regional dishes such as frico (cheese and potato dish), pork with sauerkraut, and homemade pasta. The rustic charm and family-friendly atmosphere, along with the high-quality food, make it a popular spot for an authentic dining experience. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Villa Odissea: Situated in the countryside near Palmanova, Ristorante Villa Odissea offers an upscale dining experience with a menu that combines Italian and regional Friulian dishes. The menu features seasonal ingredients such as fresh pasta, seafood, and meats, paired with an excellent wine list. The elegant setting and attentive service make it perfect for a luxurious meal. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Al Gallo: A family-run restaurant located in the nearby town of Trivignano Udinese, Ristorante Al Gallo is known for its focus on fresh, local produce and traditional Friulian recipes. The menu includes dishes such as risotto, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables. The warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to enjoy a casual, authentic meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
Palmanova Gallery
Close to Palmanova
The area around Palmanova provide some great opportunities for both sightseeing and relaxation. A short distance to the south lies one of the most important Ancient Roman sites in Italy, the town of Aquileia, listed by UNESCO and containing a beautiful Romanesque cathedral and archaeological site.
A similar distance to the north of Palmanova is the city of Udine with its grand piazzas and impressive architecture, while to the east, lies the town of Gorizia which is situated on the international border with Slovenia and has more of a Slavic feel to it. Another of Friuli Venezia Giulia's UNESCO World Heritage sites is a short drive to the north east of Palmanova: Cividale del Friuli.
Away from the historic sites, it's only a half an hour drive to reach the coast from Palmanova with the two main towns of the Marano Lagoon: Grado and Marano Lagunare. A slightly more traditional seaside resort can be found just a little further along the coast at Lignano Sabbiadoro, a drive of around 40 minutes from Palmanova.
A similar distance to the north of Palmanova is the city of Udine with its grand piazzas and impressive architecture, while to the east, lies the town of Gorizia which is situated on the international border with Slovenia and has more of a Slavic feel to it. Another of Friuli Venezia Giulia's UNESCO World Heritage sites is a short drive to the north east of Palmanova: Cividale del Friuli.
Away from the historic sites, it's only a half an hour drive to reach the coast from Palmanova with the two main towns of the Marano Lagoon: Grado and Marano Lagunare. A slightly more traditional seaside resort can be found just a little further along the coast at Lignano Sabbiadoro, a drive of around 40 minutes from Palmanova.
Palmanova Travel
The nearest airports to Palmanova are Trieste Airport (Ronchi dei Legionari), just 25 km away, and Venice Marco Polo Airport, approximately 120 km away. From either airport, renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Palmanova and explore the surrounding Friuli Venezia Giulia region.
By road, Palmanova is well-connected via the A4 (Autostrada Serenissima), which links Venice and Trieste. Exit at Palmanova and follow signs to the historic centre.
For rail travel, Palmanova has its own train station, served by regional trains from cities like Udine, Trieste, and Venice. The station is a short walk from the town center.
Local buses operated by regional transit services also connect Palmanova to nearby towns, though schedules may vary.
By road, Palmanova is well-connected via the A4 (Autostrada Serenissima), which links Venice and Trieste. Exit at Palmanova and follow signs to the historic centre.
For rail travel, Palmanova has its own train station, served by regional trains from cities like Udine, Trieste, and Venice. The station is a short walk from the town center.
Local buses operated by regional transit services also connect Palmanova to nearby towns, though schedules may vary.
