Grado is a historic coastal town located in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy. It was originally a Roman settlement known as Gradus, serving as a port for the important city of Aquileia. During the decline of the Roman Empire, Grado became a refuge for people fleeing barbarian invasions, much like Venice. In the early Middle Ages, it became an episcopal seat and played a crucial role in the religious conflicts between the Patriarchate of Aquileia and the Patriarchate of Venice.
Today, Grado is known for its charming old town, beautiful beaches, and historical landmarks. It has a Venetian-style character and a strong fishing tradition, making it a popular summer destination.
Description of Grado
Grado is a picturesque seaside town built on a lagoon, often referred to as "L'Isola del Sole" (The Island of the Sun) due to its sunny climate. It features a well-preserved historic center with narrow, winding streets, colorful houses, and beautiful squares. The town is also famous for its long sandy beaches, thermal spas, and scenic waterfront promenade.
Grado is divided into different areas:
The Historic Center: Filled with medieval streets, ancient churches, and Venetian-style architecture.
The Beaches and Seafront: Wide sandy shores with shallow waters, ideal for families.
The Lagoon of Grado: A beautiful natural area with small islands, traditional fishing huts (casoni), and diverse wildlife.
Typical Food of Grado
Grado’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its fishing tradition and Venetian roots, offering a variety of fresh seafood and traditional dishes:
Boreto a la Graisana: A unique local fish stew made with garlic, vinegar, and black pepper, usually served with polenta.
Sarde in Saor: Sardines marinated in onions, vinegar, and raisins, a Venetian-style dish.
Risotto alla Grado: A seafood risotto featuring a mix of fresh fish and shellfish.
Frittura di Pesce: A crispy mix of fried seafood, including squid, shrimp, and small fish.
Busara-style Scampi: Prawns cooked in a tomato-based sauce with garlic and wine.
Local Wines: White wines such as Friulano and Malvasia pair well with the seafood.
Activities in Grado
There are many things to do in Grado, whether you love history, nature, or relaxation:
1. Explore the Historic Center
Visit the Basilica di Sant’Eufemia, a beautiful early Christian church with stunning mosaics.
Stroll through Campo dei Patriarchi, the heart of the old town.
Admire the Baptistery of San Giovanni and the remains of early Christian buildings.
2. Enjoy the Beaches
Relax on Grado’s Blue Flag beaches, known for their fine sand and family-friendly facilities.
Swim in the shallow, warm waters of the Adriatic Sea.
Try beachfront spas and wellness centers that offer thermal treatments.
3. Discover the Grado Lagoon
Take a boat trip to the small islands of the lagoon, such as Barbana, where you can visit the Sanctuary of Madonna di Barbana.
Explore the casoni, traditional fishermen’s huts that showcase Grado’s old fishing lifestyle.
Go birdwatching, as the lagoon is home to a variety of bird species.
4. Water Sports and Outdoor Activities
Try windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing along the coast.
Rent a bicycle and explore Grado’s scenic cycling routes along the seafront and into the nature reserves.
Visit the nearby Valle Cavanata Nature Reserve, a great place for hiking and birdwatching.
5. Day Trips to Nearby Attractions
Visit Aquileia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Roman ruins, mosaics, and the Basilica of Aquileia.
Take a trip to Trieste, a beautiful port city with Austrian and Italian influences.
Explore Udine, known for its Venetian-style piazzas and historic buildings.