WHAT TO VISIT IN GORIZIA, THE ​EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE IN 2025 

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In 2025, Gorizia and its Slovenian neighbour, Nova Gorica, will jointly hold the title of European Capital of Culture—an extraordinary milestone, not only because it’s the first time two cities from different countries share this honour, but especially because these cities, for nearly six decades, were divided by a barrier similar to the Berlin Wall. During that time, communism and democracy coexisted on either side, a stark reminder of the Cold War. Once politically and literally divided, the citizens of Gorizia and Nova Gorica are now united and have worked very hard to prepare the cities for this landmark year. Restorations have been completed, new events, exhibitions, and concerts have been planned, and walking and cycling paths have been created—all set to take place throughout this historic year..

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GORIZIA IS KNOW AS THE CITY OF NICKNAMES 

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THE AUSTRIAN NICE

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For nearly ten centuries Gorizia was part of the Austrian Empire. With its mild climate, scenic parks, the nearby Collio wine region and proximity to the Adriatic Sea, Gorizia was a favoured retreat for Austrian nobility, earning it the nickname "the Austrian Nice." This Mitteleuropa city blends Italian, Austrian, and Eastern European traditions, evident in its architecture and local cuisine.​

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THE SLEEPING BEAUTY

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Locally known as "the sleeping beauty," Gorizia exudes the timeless charm of its Austrian heritage, with serene parks, elegant villas, and historic palaces such as Palazzo Coronini Cronberg and Palazzo Lantieri, each furnished with 19th-century antiques. It feels as though time has stood still in this city, preserving the grace of its past.

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THE CURSED CITY 

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During World War I, Gorizia endured heavy bombardments, earning it the somber title of "la città maledetta" (the cursed city) due to the immense human cost of its liberation. The city was a key site in the Isonzo Battles, where Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces fought fiercely. The heavy fighting resulted in significant loss of life. Today, you can visit the World War One Museum on the hilltop, next to the restored medieval castle, which commemorates the sacrifices made during this period. At the end of WW I Gorizia became part of Italy. 

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THE ITALIAN BERLIN 

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Gorizia was divided after World War II by a big fence separating the Italian city from the new and then communist city Nova Gorica considered the modern Yugoslavian (now Slovenian) counterpart. This fence symbolized the division between Western and Eastern Europe during the Cold War and was only dismantled in 2004 when Slovenia joined the European Union.

Today, on the Transalpina Square, where the fence once stood,  you can stand with one foot in Italy and the other in Slovenia—a must-try experience!​

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DISCOVER GORIZIA WITH A GUIDED TOUR

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Your visit to Friuli Venezia Giulia isn’t complete without experiencing Gorizia—especially in 2025! Let me guide you through this enchanting city, revealing its fascinating history, breathtaking architecture, and hidden gems. Click the purple button below for tour details and pricing.

 

DOWNLOAD THE DIGITAL CITY GUIDE OF GORIZIA

 

Prefer exploring at your own pace? Download the exclusive Digital Gorizia City Walk and enjoy an expertly crafted self-guided journey through Gorizia’s highlights. Start your adventure today!