by InTrieste
Almost a year after fierce storms battered Trieste’s coastline, the city’s iconic bronze statue, La Mula de Trieste, has made her triumphant return to her place along the Barcola waterfront. The artwork, a cherished symbol of the city, had been damaged by the powerful waves of last November’s storms and has since undergone restoration before being reinstalled this week.
The statue, crafted by renowned sculptor Nino Spagnoli, was violently swept from her base and dragged along the shore by the force of the storm. Though the bronze figure herself sustained only minor dents, the damage to the concrete pedestal was severe. The base had to be replaced with a more resilient iron structure to withstand future weather events. For months, the Mula—a figure that has become an emblem of Trieste’s spirit—remained in storage while repairs were made.
In a city where tradition and identity are deeply tied to its landmarks, the temporary loss of the Mula was felt by many. “The waves might have knocked her down, but they couldn’t take her away from us,” remarked a local resident who came to witness the statue’s return. “She’s part of our city, part of who we are.”
The restoration was carried out with care over several months, ensuring that the statue would retain its original charm while being secured against future storm damage. This week, the city’s residents welcomed back their beloved Mula, a figure whose return symbolizes resilience and the enduring connection between Trieste and the sea.
As the autumn winds pick up along the Adriatic, the Mula now stands more securely than before, a lasting testament to the city’s perseverance and love for its landmarks. Trieste, often defined by its history as a maritime hub, celebrates not only the return of the statue but the continuation of a legacy that ties its people to the waves crashing at their shores.
