Aquileia, founded by the Romans in 181 b.c., was chosen for its strategic position and for a very functional road network that connected Aquileia to the Padanian plain and to Central Europe. From the Augustian Age onwards, the town became an important centre of wine production, trading and consumption, as witnessed by the written documents found here as well as amphora and glasses. Nowadays, walking through the built-up centre you will see the remains of important Roman constructions that emerge between the modern houses.
The Basilica is certainly worth a visit, with its simple Romanic and Gothic style. Next door stands the stunning Bell Tower dating from 308-309 b.c, however, it is the inside of the Basilica and its mosaics that are the most interesting to visit. The mosaics date from the 4th century and are the largest and most spectacular Paleochristian mosaic cycle in Western world, depicting an assortment of different animals, all with strong allusions to religious symbology.
Bagnaria Arsa
The area around Aquileia enjoys a mild climate sheltered from the breezes that blow in from the nearby coastal area. The area is part of lower Friuli region, flatlands consisting primarily of sand and clay. It is a particular area pertaining to the so-called “Alpha” climatic area, which also includes Bordeaux and Alsace.
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Lunch will take us to a typical restaurant in Bagnaria Arsa, where we will sample some of Friuli’s delicious, world-famous cuisine. After lunch, we will continue with a visit to a nearby winery that has been recently renovated and restored to its former glory. Here, the excellent microclimate and cutting edge technology allow the grapes to preserve their original fragrance, thus achieving excellent results. After visiting the cellar we will enjoy a tasting of 3 different wines.
Programme
Leaving time
7.30
Arrival and visit of Aquileia Basilica
9.30
Lunch in a farmhouse
13.00
Visit of the winery and wine tasting
15.30
Coming back
18.30
Price
€ 45,00
The price includes:
Transfer in air-conditioned coach
Visit of Aquileia Basilica
Lunch in a farmhouse (beverage included)
Guided tour of the winery and wine tasting
Registration fee
Insurance
All our tours can be made-to-measure, and can be conducted in Italian, English or any other foreign language, for individuals or groups, for beginners or experts according to Your special needs!!!
Alternative Activities
Excursion to Grado, the Golden Island and popular seaside resort whose history is closely connected to the Republic of Venice. Here you will find golden sands and well equipped beaches, a charming city centre and a well know Wellness Complex.
Excursion to Palmanova, the only city to have preserved its original nine-pointed star layout, which indicates that in the past it was a fully blown military stronghold, rather than a simple fortress
Grado Golf Club: have fun and relax on the 18-hole golf club surrounded by the lagoon.
