by InTrieste
This summer, a group of American students embarked on an extraordinary journey through Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy’s northernmost region, as part of the National Italian American Foundation’s (NIAF) “Voyage of Discovery” program. For two weeks, these young Italian Americans explored historic sites, vibrant cities, and picturesque landscapes, gaining a deeper connection to their Italian heritage. We spoke with several participants to understand how this immersive experience impacted their sense of identity and perceptions of Italy.
How did immersing yourself in Friuli Venezia Giulia’s rich cultural and historical heritage impact your understanding of your own heritage or identity?
Alexandra Colaiacovo: Ocean Township, New Jersey
Alexandra Colaiacovo from Ocean Township, New Jersey, described her experience as transformative. “Immersing myself in Friuli Venezia Giulia was a revelation. The region’s historical depth was striking—ancient churches, centuries-old traditions, and the palpable sense of history in every corner. The realization of how old and rich Italy’s cultural heritage is compared to American traditions was profound. Experiencing traditions that have been alive for thousands of years made me feel a deep, tangible connection to my ancestors. It reaffirmed my Italian identity and gave me a new perspective on the continuity and resilience of Italian culture.”
Marco Buglione: Irvington, NY
Marco Buglione from Irvington, NY, noted how the trip illuminated the complexity of his heritage. “My time in Friuli Venezia Giulia revealed Italy as a mosaic of diverse backgrounds and histories. The region’s ability to harmoniously blend various cultural influences showed me how my Italian-American identity fits into a larger cultural narrative. This experience broadened my understanding of what it means to be Italian-American, as I saw firsthand how my heritage is part of a rich and varied historical tapestry. It made me appreciate the diversity within Italian culture and the interconnectedness of our global heritage.”
Santino Gigliotti: University of California, Santa Barbara
Santino Gigliotti from the University of California, Santa Barbara, found that the journey provided him with a profound connection to his Italian roots. “Exploring Friuli Venezia Giulia offered a comprehensive introduction to Italian culture and history. The region’s diverse architecture, ancient ruins, and regional cuisine provided a vivid picture of Italian heritage. Walking through historic sites and observing the cultural nuances gave me a clearer understanding of how my Italian roots are linked to Italy’s broader historical and cultural landscape. It was a powerful affirmation of my Italian identity and a deeper connection to my family’s history.”
Joseph Sciortino: Kensington, Maryland
Joseph Sciortino from Kensington, Maryland, experienced a personal reconnection with his heritage. “The journey to Friuli Venezia Giulia bridged the gap between my distant Italian heritage and my present life. Interacting with locals, practicing my Italian, and immersing myself in traditional customs made my Italian roots feel more immediate and personal. The trip allowed me to experience firsthand the traditions and culture that I had previously only read about. It was a meaningful exploration of my heritage that made me proud to embrace my Italian identity more fully.”
Sophia Mansbach: South Florida
Sophia Mansbach from South Florida, who played a key role in organizing the trip, shared her unique perspective. “My motivation for joining the Voyage of Discovery was to help Italian American college students reconnect with their roots and heritage. Leading the groups through Friuli Venezia Giulia was eye-opening. The diversity of the region’s landscapes—from the vast caves to the seaside castles—showcased Italy’s multifaceted beauty. Experiencing how Friuli Venezia Giulia is influenced by its geographical and cultural proximity to other countries enriched my understanding of Italian diversity and underscored the warmth and passion of the Italian people, no matter where they come from.”
What were the most surprising or unexpected aspects of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region that you encountered during the voyage, and how did these experiences challenge or enrich your preconceived notions about the area?
Alexandra Colaiacovo
Colaiacovo was taken aback by the integration of historical sites into modern life. “One of the most surprising aspects was discovering how seamlessly ancient Roman sites are blended with contemporary surroundings. I didn’t expect to find such well-preserved history amid modern life. Additionally, learning about the region’s historical influences from neighboring countries was eye-opening. It challenged my previous understanding of Italy, revealing a complexity and richness that went beyond the traditional narratives I had learned. This experience broadened my appreciation for Italy’s diverse cultural influences.”
Marco Buglione
Buglione found the region’s multicultural nature to be unexpected. “I was struck by the unique blend of cultures in Friuli Venezia Giulia. Unlike other parts of Italy, this region felt like a melting pot with diverse influences from American, Asian, and Arabic cultures. This multicultural environment enriched my view of Italy, showing me that it is not just a single narrative but a dynamic and interconnected collection of cultures. It challenged my preconceived notions of Italy as a homogenous entity and highlighted the importance of cultural diversity.”
Santino Gigliotti
Gigliotti was surprised by the region’s profound cultural diversity. “Heading into the voyage, I thought Friuli Venezia Giulia was somewhat isolated from the rest of Italy. However, I quickly realized its significance within Italy’s broader cultural and historical context. The region’s contributions to Italy’s gastronomy, architecture, and heritage were more substantial than I anticipated. This experience reshaped my perception of Friuli Venezia Giulia, showcasing its crucial role in Italy’s cultural and historical narrative and enriching my understanding of the country as a whole.”
Joseph Sciortino
Sciortino was impressed by the region’s hidden beauty. “The most unexpected aspect of Friuli Venezia Giulia was discovering its charm and beauty, which contrasted with my previous focus on major Italian cities like Rome and Venice. The picturesque towns and unspoiled landscapes of the region were a revelation. This journey challenged my assumptions about Italy’s most notable destinations and revealed the captivating and lesser-known aspects of the country. It made me appreciate the diversity within Italy and the unique experiences that Friuli Venezia Giulia offers.”
Sophia Mansbach
Mansbach was struck by the region’s diverse landscapes. “One of the most surprising aspects was the stark contrast in landscapes within Friuli Venezia Giulia. One day we explored Grotta Gigante, Europe’s largest tourist cave, and the next, we visited Castello Miramare, perched on the Adriatic Sea. This shift in scenery highlighted the region’s versatility and underscored the beauty and variety that Friuli Venezia Giulia offers. It enriched my understanding of the region’s geographical and cultural diversity, showcasing the unique blend of natural and historical wonders.”
A Lasting Impact
The “Voyage of Discovery” has provided these students with more than just a memorable travel experience; it has offered them a profound connection to their Italian heritage. Through their personal reflections, it is evident that the journey has deepened their understanding of their cultural identity and challenged their preconceived notions about Italy. As they return to their daily lives, the impact of this voyage will continue to resonate, enriching their appreciation of their roots and the diverse cultural landscape of Italy.
