Description of the attraction
San Daniele del Friuli is a small town located on the Adriatic Riviera of Italy near the resort town of Lignano. Administratively, it belongs to the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. Here, on an area of 35 sq. Km. a little more than 8 thousand people live.
San Daniele is nestled on a hilltop in the foothills of the Alps, from which you can see the entire plain below. The city is quite compact and is part of the so-called Slow Cities - cities that have committed themselves to improving the quality of life of their inhabitants and guests. It is here that a type of raw ham is produced, which is distinguished by a special taste due to the local climate. Cold air from the north mixes with the warm air of the Adriatic along the Tagliamento River, which contributes to the formation of the correct humidity level here - a necessary condition for the production of seasonal meat. In addition to the famous ham in San Daniele, you can taste the trout, which the locals call the "Queen of San Daniele".
From a historical point of view, little is known about the city - the date of its foundation and most of its history during the Middle Ages remain shrouded in secrecy. However, it is reliably known that San Daniele was the third most important local market after Aquileia and Cividale, and in the 17th century - one of the centers of the Protestant reformation in Friuli.
On the main square you can see the Cathedral, dedicated to the patron saint of the city - Archangel Michael, and the bell tower, the construction of which began in 1531 and remained unfinished. Inside the cathedral there is a 16th century baptistery. Nearby on the same square is the old Town Hall, which today houses the municipal archive with documents dating from the 12th century and a library.
Another attraction of San Daniele is the castle, from which, however, only the tower and some fragments of the walls have survived. Today, its entire territory has been turned into a park, from which a wonderful view of the plain and the Julian Alps opens up.
Finally, the traditional Aria di Festa festival, which takes place annually on the last weekend of June, should not be missed. For four days - from Friday to Monday - you can taste the famous raw ham in the streets and squares of San Daniele.
