by InTrieste
On Friday morning, city officials inaugurated a restoration project for the Benedetto Croce promenade in Barcola, a popular seaside destination. The initiative comes in response to storm surges in late October and early November of last year that caused significant damage to the coastal infrastructure, including the promenade, its adjacent pine grove, and surrounding facilities.
The announcement was made during a press conference attended by Trieste’s mayor, Roberto Dipiazza, Councilor for Territorial Policies Michele Babuder, and representatives from the city’s Mobility and Traffic Service. The project will focus on reinforcing the cliffs along the promenade to better protect the area from future storm impacts.
“This is a significant step forward,” Mayor Dipiazza said, highlighting the importance of preventive measures in safeguarding the city’s infrastructure. He pointed to recent investments in flood prevention and drainage maintenance as examples of Trieste’s broader efforts to mitigate the risks posed by extreme weather events.
The restoration involves expanding the breakwater along the coastline using nearly 4,000 tons of locally sourced rocks. According to city officials, the enhanced structure will provide greater resistance to waves and prevent erosion in the event of high winds and tides.
Councilor Babuder described the work as “historic” for its scope and its potential to redefine the area’s coastal defenses. “We are rebuilding the promenade’s protective barrier to ensure long-term resilience,” he said, adding that the improvements are expected to restore much of the damage within 60 days.
The Regional Civil Protection Agency has allocated €362,000 to the project, which will address a 570-meter stretch of the seafront. The work, to be carried out by Cella Costruzioni SRL, will involve retrieving dislodged rocks from the seabed, expanding the existing cliff by up to 1.5 meters, and raising it by 60 to 80 centimeters.
Efforts will be concentrated on the areas most severely affected by the recent storms, including damaged pedestrian paths and recreational spaces. City officials aim to complete the primary phase of the project before the end of the year, while subsequent phases will depend on securing additional funding.
The Benedetto Croce promenade, a cherished feature of Trieste’s coastline, has long been a focal point for residents and visitors alike. With the restoration underway, officials expressed optimism that the improvements will preserve the area’s appeal while enhancing its resilience against future challenges.
Interviews: Michele Babuder, Councilor for Territorial Policies; Giorgia Gobesso, civil engineer from the Municipality of Trieste
