by Guisela Chiarella
As a cruise ship docked in the port of Trieste this weekend, hundreds of American travelers stepped ashore, eager to explore a city that, for many, had remained an unfamiliar destination.
“I had never heard of Trieste before this trip,” said Linda Wagner, a visitor from Chicago. “But after reading about its history and architecture, I knew I had to see Miramare Castle.”
Others disembarking from the ship shared similar sentiments, drawn by the city’s unique blend of Italian, Austrian, and Slavic influences. Many set out toward Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of Europe’s largest seafront squares, while others strolled along the Grand Canal or settled into historic cafés to experience Trieste’s famed coffee culture.
“It feels like a hidden gem,” said Mark Reynolds of New York, sipping an espresso at the renowned Caffè San Marco. “There’s something very special about this place.”
Located on the Adriatic near the Slovenian border, Trieste has long been a crossroads of cultures, its past shaped by the Habsburg Empire before becoming part of Italy in the 20th century. The city’s literary heritage—once home to James Joyce and Italo Svevo—also intrigues visitors.
“We only have one day here, but I’d love to come back and explore more,” said Patricia Green from Seattle. “There’s a depth to this city that you don’t expect.”
For many of these travelers, Trieste was a pleasant surprise—an unscheduled stop that became a highlight of their journey.
My first visit to Trieste was in 1952 as a two year old accompanied by my English mother and Triestine father. Over the subsequent seventy plus years I have visited almost every year and since 1970 with my partner June.
Over the years we have travelled extensively throughout Europe by road and visited many prominent areas and cities, but we are constantly drawn to Trieste.
Of course, my father (b.1919) was immensely proud of the city and from an early age gave me a vast understanding of it’s unique history. My mother was also deeply impressed on her very first visit and never lost her affection for the place, although the climb up to the village area of Sottemonte was a bit of a surprise.
We obviously came to visit my fathers relatives, but there was always something of interest in the city or beyond, from Duino to Muggia to Lipica etc.
The whole area is so captivating, enchanting and cultural, I have, for years, promoted Trieste to anyone who will listen to me, but because it is not a big name on the tourist route, my views are not fully digested.
But, I think I am in good company, when the esteemed travel writer Jan Morris indicated that Trieste was her favourite worldwide city.
I could continue along many threads of interest and passion I have for the area, but will pause here and look forward to later in the year when we plan to visit my cousin in Via Commerciale.
Hi Philip,
My wife and I visited the lovely city of Trieste a few years ago. We descended into it from Opicina on the very steep tramcar , lowered down by a cable. A bit scary but worthwhile experience.
I think I know you, we went to school together in Bothamsall and Tuxford. My name is Stephen Maw. Apologies if I’ve got this wrong. But if I’m right it would be good to speak after all these years. I remember your Dad who was a motor mechanic I think. Tel 07904 206500.