by In Trieste
Land of rolling hills, olive groves and vineyards, and medieval hill-towns sprinkled like jewels across the landscape: this is Collio, quintessential Friuli Venezia Giulia.

To experience the best of this iconic region we went to Castello di Spessa, a magnificent castle set in the wine country just 45 minutes away from Trieste.
The origins of Castello di Spessa date back to the Roman ages, with the documented presence of a watchtower and a kiln.

The castle itself dates back to the thirteenth century. Over the centuries, the various families who owned Castello di Spessa accommodated some notable figures including Giacomo Casanova and Lorenzo Da Ponte.
Nowadays, the castle is a perfect venue for weddings, celebrations and just a quick getaway from the city of Trieste.

Castello di Spessa offers
- A romantic stay in one of the castle suites decorated with antiques from the 18th and 19th centuries.

- 19th century rooms and elegant medieval halls available for wedding receptions. The adjoining neo-Gothic chapel is available for religious celebrations.

- A tour of the medieval wine cellars and a stop at the wine shop. Reservation in advance is appreciated.
- Guided wine and grappa tasting produced by Spessa Castle.

- Cooking lessons with the chef in the castle’s historical kitchens.
- Restaurant and catering service for all tastes, with everything from fine cuisine to traditional central European dishes, with the possibility of tasting local products.

- Walking routes through the woods and vineyards.

For more information, please visit the castle’s website.