by InTrieste
The sunlit piazza of Ponterosso in Trieste was a scene of vibrant celebration on Friday as Deputy Mayor Serena Tonel inaugurated the “Trieste Crossroads of Culture” festival, a cherished event now in its 13th edition. Running from June 14 to 22, the festival spans several historic neighborhoods, including Piazza Ponterosso, Via Bellini, and Porto Vecchio, weaving together the rich tapestry of the city’s cultural heritage.
“This festival is a testament to Trieste’s long-standing role as a melting pot of cultures,” Deputy Mayor Tonel remarked, her voice resonating with pride and excitement. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate our diverse community and share it with the world.”
The initiative is co-organized by the Municipality of Trieste and Altamarea Eventi, with support from Mittelnet Travel Agency, and media partnerships with Radio Punto Zero and Trieste Café. Over the next week, the city will come alive with a series of guided tours, folk dances, cultural walks, and culinary tastings, all highlighting the contributions of Trieste’s ethnic and religious communities.
A Historical and Cultural Journey
The festival offers a dynamic program designed to transport visitors through time, bringing to life the ancient mercantile legacy of Trieste. From 9:30 AM to 11:30 PM daily, attendees can explore a bustling market along the Grand Canal, sampling traditional dishes and engaging with vendors from various cultural backgrounds.
This year’s edition features two standout events: a visit to the Rosenfeld Sponge Factory in Muggia, and a lesson-concert by the Civic Wind Orchestra “G. Verdi” of Trieste. Returning favorites include guided tours of the historic Giuseppino and Franceschino districts, the opulent Villa Revoltella, and the artist’s studio “Studio Psacaropulo.”
A Calendar of Celebrations
The festival kicked off with a visit to “Studio Alice Psacaropulo,” an intimate museum showcasing the works of the eponymous artist, followed by a captivating performance of traditional Greek dances in Piazza Ponterosso.
Upcoming highlights include:
- June 15, 3:30 PM: A guided tour of the Museum of the Greek Orthodox Community, starting at Riva Tre Novembre 7.
- June 16, 10:30 AM: A nature walk through Borgo Giuseppino, led by naturalistic guide Dorian Lorenzutti, exploring the history of Trieste through its monumental trees.
- June 17, 5:00 PM: Historian Zeno Saracino will lead a tour of the Hydrodynamic Central at Porto Vecchio.
- June 18, 6:00 PM: A detailed exploration of Villa Revoltella’s storied past, with Saracino providing historical context.
- June 19, 6:30 PM: A musical aperitif at Caffè Berlam, featuring the Civic Wind Orchestra “G. Verdi” and insights into Trieste’s natural and cultural landscape.
Reservations for these events can be made through Mittelnet Travel Agency.
A Celebration of Diversity
Trieste’s “Crossroads of Culture” festival underscores the city’s unique position as a historical crossroads of various cultures and religions. The event is not just a celebration, but a reaffirmation of the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
As Deputy Mayor Tonel aptly put it, “In these challenging times, it’s more important than ever to come together and celebrate the rich cultural mosaic that defines our city. This festival is a beautiful reminder of what unites us all.”
For more information and to reserve a spot at any of the events, visitors can contact Mittelnet Travel Agency at 0409896112 or visit Mittelnet’s website. The full schedule is available online, detailing each day’s activities and ensuring that no visitor misses out on this cultural feast.
