Province of Udine facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Province of Udine
Provincia di Udine
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| Country |  Italy |
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| Region | Friuli-Venezia Giulia | |
| Capital | Udine | |
| Area | ||
| • Total | 2,273 km2 (878 sq mi) | |
| Population
(2001)
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| • Total | 286,307 | |
| • Density | 126/km2 (330/sq mi) | |
| Postal Code |
33070, 33072-33074, 33076-33077, 33079-33087, 33090-33099, 33170
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| Telephone prefix |
0425, 0427, 0432, 0434, 0828
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| ISTAT | 093 | |
| Vehicle registration | UD | |
| No. of communes | 51 | |
The Province of Udine (Italian: Provincia di Udine, Friulian Provincie di Udin) was a province in the autonomous Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy. It bordered Austria and Slovenia. Its capital was the city of Udine. In 2017, the province was replaced by the Regional Decentralization Body of Udine.
Contents
What is the Province of Udine?
The Province of Udine was a special area in northeastern Italy. It was one of the four provinces that made up the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. This region is unique because it has a special status. This means it has more power to make its own rules compared to other Italian regions.
The province was home to about 286,307 people in 2001. It covered an area of 2,273 square kilometers. This made it a fairly large province in Italy. The capital city, Udine, is an important center for culture and business in the area.
Where is Udine Located?
The Province of Udine was located in the very northeast of Italy. It shared borders with two other countries: Austria to the north and Slovenia to the east. This location made it a crossroads of different cultures. To the south, it had a coastline along the Adriatic Sea. To the west, it bordered other parts of Italy.
The landscape of the province was very diverse. In the north, you could find the Carnic Alps. These are part of the larger Alps mountain range. The mountains offer beautiful scenery and opportunities for hiking and skiing. As you move south, the land becomes flatter. This area is known as the Friulian Plain. It is used for farming.
A Look at Udine's History
The area of Udine has a long and rich history. People have lived here for thousands of years. The city of Udine itself has roots going back to Roman times. However, it became more important in the Middle Ages.
For many centuries, Udine was part of the Republic of Venice. This powerful republic controlled much of the Adriatic Sea. Venice's influence can still be seen in the architecture and culture of Udine. After Venice, the area became part of the Austrian Empire. Finally, it joined Italy in 1866. This long history means the province has a mix of Italian, Venetian, Austrian, and even Slavic influences.
Nature and Landscapes
The Province of Udine offered a wide range of natural beauty. The northern part is dominated by the Carnic Alps. These mountains are home to forests, clear rivers, and alpine meadows. They are a great place for outdoor activities.
Further south, the landscape changes to the flat Friulian Plain. This area is very fertile. It is used to grow crops like corn and grapes. Many rivers flow through the plain, including the Tagliamento River. This river is one of the most important in the region. The southern part of the province also includes a small coastline on the Adriatic Sea. Here you can find lagoons and sandy beaches.
Life in the Province
Life in the Province of Udine was a blend of tradition and modern living. Agriculture was very important, especially in the plains. Farmers grow grapes for wine, corn, and other crops. The region is famous for its wines, especially white wines.
Besides farming, there were also industries. These included making furniture, machinery, and food products. Tourism was also growing, especially in the mountains and along the coast. People visited for skiing, hiking, and beach holidays.
The people of Udine speak Italian, but many also speak Friulian. Friulian is a special language related to Latin. It is an important part of the local culture. The food in Udine is also unique. It blends Italian traditions with influences from Austria and Slovenia. You can find delicious cheeses, cured meats, and hearty stews.
Main Towns and Cities
The capital city, Udine, is the largest and most important city. It has a beautiful old town with historic buildings, squares, and a castle. It's a lively place with shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
Other important towns in the province included:
- Cividale del Friuli: This town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was an important center during the time of the Lombards. It has beautiful old churches and bridges.
- San Daniele del Friuli: This town is famous for its delicious Prosciutto di San Daniele. This is a special type of cured ham known all over the world.
- Gemona del Friuli: This town is known for its beautiful cathedral. It was rebuilt after a big earthquake in 1976.
