by InTrieste
Beneath the quiet streets and vineyards of this Friuli Venezia Giulia town lie the remains of one of the greatest cities of the ancient world. Once a major Roman outpost and an early Christian center, Aquileia is now poised for a revival, thanks to an ambitious new investment plan aimed at uncovering its buried past and securing its place as one of Europe’s premier archaeological sites.
The regional government of Friuli Venezia Giulia has pledged record funding to Aquileia’s preservation, with an additional €3.5 million already earmarked for 2025. The goal, officials say, is to expand excavations, enhance tourism, and promote research into a city that—despite its UNESCO World Heritage status—remains largely unexplored beneath centuries of farmland and development.
“Recognizing Aquileia’s extraordinary cultural, artistic, and historical importance, we are making major investments to ensure its accessibility and global recognition,” Mario Anzil, the region’s vice governor and cultural affairs commissioner, said Monday at the National Archaeological Museum of Aquileia. “The projects presented today look toward the future, aligning with significant upcoming events like the Jubilee of Mercy and Go!2025.”
At the heart of the initiative is the acquisition of 18 hectares (about 44 acres) of land, most of it within the UNESCO-designated archaeological zone. Combined with 20 hectares already allocated by the Italian government, this expansion will create one of the largest archaeological parks in the world.
“The excavations will not only uncover new insights into this cosmopolitan Roman center, but they will also provide opportunities for international collaboration among scholars,” Mr. Anzil said. “At the same time, these efforts will attract visitors and experts, making archaeology a dynamic and immersive experience.”
A City Buried, but Not Forgotten
Founded in 181 B.C., Aquileia was one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire, serving as a key military stronghold, a thriving commercial hub, and later, a major center of early Christianity. By the 4th century A.D., it was a city of immense wealth and influence, rivaling Milan and Ravenna.
It was here that the Roman Empire first repelled Attila the Hun in the 5th century, though the city eventually fell to the Lombards in 568 A.D. Today, much of Aquileia remains underground, preserved beneath modern buildings and agricultural fields.
“Aquileia has an immense cultural and historical heritage,” Mr. Anzil said. “It is a treasure not only for Italy but for the world.”
A Future Built on the Past
The new investments will support a broad range of initiatives, including excavation projects, conservation efforts, and public engagement programs designed to bring history to life. Officials hope to make Aquileia a model for archaeological research and cultural tourism, attracting scholars and visitors alike.
The initiative has been welcomed by local and regional leaders, including Aquileia’s mayor, Emanuele Zorino; the president and director of Fondazione Aquileia, Roberto Corciulo and Cristiano Tiussi; and representatives from the Basilica of Aquileia and the National Archaeological Museum.
“Fondazione Aquileia has demonstrated a remarkable ability to translate ambitious projects into reality,” Mr. Anzil said, praising the foundation’s efforts to restore and promote the city’s historical legacy.
With new funding in place and excavation projects set to expand, Aquileia—once a beacon of the ancient world—is preparing for a long-awaited resurgence.
