Palmanova, the star-shaped fortress village

The original name of Palmanova was “Palma,” chosen in 1593 by Marc’Antonio Barbaro, the first superintendent of the Fortress. Theories about its origin refer either to the palm as a symbol of victory and glory, or to the nearby village of Palmada. Only in the 19th century did it assume its current name. Palmanova, located in the Friulian plain between Udine and Aquileia, was born as a fortress city designed by the Republic of Venice to defend the territory from Turkish incursions and Habsburg ambitions. The project, led by Giulio Savorgnan and experts from the Office of Fortifications, was founded on October 7, 1593, a symbolic date recalling Saint Justina and the Venetian victory at Lepanto. The city was conceived with mathematical precision as a unique urban plan: a nine-pointed star, an ideal example of Renaissance military architecture.

What to see in the village

The village of Palmanova is unique in its kind and embodies the model of a “fortress city,” thanks to its urban design.

Its star shape, with nine identical points, is a hymn to perfection and urban symmetry. Two defensive lines were built, consisting of stone and brick ramparts. The structure, designed with great engineering skill, included bastions, curtains, counterguards, and ravelins, with a moat and a network of underground tunnels for troop movements.

Access to the city is through three gates: once past the walls, the eye is immediately drawn to the heart of Palmanova, Piazza Grande, a perfect hexagon and symbol of architectural harmony. Overlooking this square are the main monuments, including the Dogale Cathedral with its Baroque-style façade, the Palazzo del Provveditore Generale (1598–1611), now the Town Hall, the Loggia della Gran Guardia, the Loggia dei Mercanti, and the Palazzo del Monte di Pietà built in 1666.

The Bastions and underground galleries remain of great historical and artistic interest; a third defensive line was added during the Napoleonic era. Finally, the Museum of the Great War and the Fortress of Palmanova, above Porta Cividale, is worth a visit, telling the military history from its foundation to the present day.

Events in the village

Every year Palmanova hosts events linked to its history and traditions. A.D. Palma alle Armi (first weekend of September) is a grand historical reenactment with over a thousand participants in period costume, dedicated to the Gradisca Wars. On Easter Monday, Pasquetta sui Bastioni offers games, guided tours, markets, and tastings. The Fiera di Santa Giustina (October 7) celebrates the patron saint with food and wine stalls, crafts, a funfair, and cultural events.

What to see around Palmanova

The surroundings of Palmanova offer numerous sites of historical, cultural, and natural interest. Just a few kilometers away lies Aquileia, an ancient Roman city with its famous Basilica and extraordinary early Christian mosaics, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To the north rises Udine, with its castle, Renaissance squares, and Tiepolo’s paintings. Not to be missed is Cividale del Friuli, founded by Julius Caesar and also a UNESCO site, with the famous Lombard Temple and the Devil’s Bridge. For nature lovers, excursions along the Isonzo River and in the Collio hills, renowned for their wines, are particularly evocative.

Have you ever seen a star-shaped village?

Hurry to discover Palmanova—you won’t regret it!

Cover photo credits: Istvan Csak