Palmanova - Venetian Works of Defence between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra – Western Stato da Mar

Palmanova (Friulian: Palme) is a town and comune in northeast Italy. The town is an example of a star fort of the late Renaissance, built up by the Venetian Republic in 1593. The fortifications were included in UNESCO's World Heritage Site list as part of Venetian Works of Defence between the 16th and 17th centuries: Stato da Terra – western Stato da Mar in 2017. This property consists of 6 components of defence works in Italy, Croatia and Montenegro, spanning more than 1,000 km between the Lombard region of Italy and the eastern Adriatic Coast. The fortifications throughout the Stato da Terra protected the Republic of Venice from other European powers to the northwest and those of the Stato da Mar protected the sea routes and ports in the Adriatic Sea to the Levant. They were necessary to support the expansion and authority of the Serenissima. The introduction of gunpowder led to significant shifts in military techniques and architecture that are reflected in the design of so-called alla moderna / bastioned, fortifications, which were to spread throughout Europe. Palmanova is an Italian town in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. It is located about 30 kilometres west of Trieste. Palmanova is an architectural masterpiece designed and built by the Venetians in the 16th century as one of nine "Cities of the Star".

Palmanova is a unique town situated on a triangular island in the south of Friuli. The original plan of the town was laid out in a star format, making the nine town gates part of the defensive system. There are three wide paths leading out of the city centre, which is an impressive combination of military architecture and urban design.

Today Palmanova is a lively town with many attractions to see. There is a museum dedicated to the Great War and the history of Palmanova, and some very beautiful churches, including the 14th century church of San Giusto. Apart from the sights, Palmanova also has many smaller shops and cafés.

Palmanova is an incredibly beautiful place with an interesting history and many sights. It is a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer stay. It is a must-see when travelling in the Friuli region.