San Daniele del Friuli
   Photo: San Daniele del Friuli

San Daniele del Friuli - a small town on the Adriatic Riviera close to the Italian resort of Lignano. Administratively it belongs to the region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Here, on an area of ​​35 square kilometers in It has just over 8000 people.

San Daniele is conveniently located on a hilltop in the foothills of the Alps, offering a view of the entire plain lying below. The city is compact enough and is part of the so-called Slow Cities - cities that have pledged to improve the quality of life of their inhabitants and visitors. They produce all kind of raw ham with a distinct taste for the local climate. The cold air from the north mixes with the warm air of the Adriatic along the river Tagliamento, which contributes to a correct level of humidity here - a necessary condition for the production of seasonal meat. In addition to the famous San Daniele ham in a can enjoy trout, which locals call the "Queen of San Daniele."

From a historical point of view, little is known about the city - the date of its founding and most of its history during the Middle Ages, remain shrouded in mystery. However, it is known that San Daniele was the third most important market after local Aquileia and Cividale, and in the 17th century - one of the centers of the Protestant Reformation in Friuli.

In the main square you can see the Cathedral dedicated to the patron saint of the city - the Archangel Michael, and the bell tower, whose construction began in 1531, the year remained unfinished. Inside the cathedral is preserved baptistery of the 16th century. Near the same square stands the old City Hall, which today houses the municipal archive of documents dating from the 12th century, and a library.

Another attraction is the castle of San Daniele, which, however, remained only a tower and some fragments of walls. Today, all of its territory turned into a park, which offers a wonderful view of the valley and the Julian Alps.

Finally, you can not miss the traditional festival "Aria di Festa", which is held annually on the last weekend of June. During the four days - from Friday to Monday - in the streets and squares of San Daniele you can taste the famous raw ham.

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