Grado

Grado is a beautiful coastal and lagoon town in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, in the province of Gorizia.

It is known as:

"The Island of the Sun": for its wide sandy beaches, a popular tourist destination and spa since the Austro-Hungarian era (it was declared an official health resort in 1892).

"The First Venice" or "Golden Island": for its characteristic historic center, an ancient Roman castrum, with narrow streets, squares, and fishermen's houses reminiscent of the Serenissima.

Main Points of Interest:

Historic Center (Gravo Vecia): A labyrinth of charming alleys.

Early Christian Basilicas: The Basilica of Sant'Eufemia (6th century) and the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie (5th-6th century), with their magnificent mosaics.

Grado Lagoon: A picturesque ecosystem dotted with islets and "casoni" (ancient fishermen's dwellings), ideal for boat trips.

Sanctuary of Barbana: Located on an island in the lagoon, it is the destination of a picturesque pilgrimage (the Perdòn de Barbana).

Grado is also the final destination of the Alpe Adria Cycle Route and is located a short distance from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aquileia, with which it has a historic connection.