by InTrieste
In a city renowned for its historic charm and intellectual heritage, a sleek new addition has risen to meet the growing demand for student housing. The recently inaugurated CX Trieste – Giulia, a private dormitory with 360 beds, has opened its doors on Via Giulia, offering a blend of modern amenities and affordable accommodation for university students.
Designed to cater to both long- and short-term stays, the nine-story structure represents a significant transformation of a former office building. The facility is tailored primarily for the city’s expanding student population, nearly half of whom hail from outside the region. Yet, Trieste’s current university accommodations provide just 500 conventional beds, far short of the 8,000 out-of-town students enrolled.
This shortfall has spurred innovative projects like CX Trieste – Giulia, funded by the Fondo Housing Sociale FVG of Finint Investments, with contributions from Cassa Depositi e Prestiti and the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region.
“Trieste’s growing reputation as a university hub makes this project not just timely but necessary,” said a representative of the development team.
The dormitory offers more than just a place to sleep. In addition to 290 private student rooms, the facility includes hostel-style dormitories and hotel accommodations, creating a unique hybrid model designed for flexibility. Communal kitchens, a gym, and a café foster both study and social interaction, while a focus on sustainability has made the structure eligible for funding under Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
Significantly, 70% of the beds will be available at a 15% discount compared to market rates, a nod to affordability in a city where housing costs have been rising.
With its contemporary design and focus on community, CX Trieste – Giulia represents a bold step forward in addressing the challenges of student life. At the same time, its hybrid format—part dormitory, part hotel—signals a broader trend in reimagining urban housing for the next generation.
As Trieste continues to position itself as a nexus of academic excellence, initiatives like this one highlight the city’s commitment to meeting the needs of its diverse and dynamic student body.
Interviews: Regional councilor for Labor and Education, Alessia Rosolen; Regional Councilor for Infrastructure Cristina Amirante
