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The Warmth of Trieste In Autumn

Trieste was ruled by the Habsburg monarchy from 1382 until 1918. As a prosperous trading hub in the Mediterranean region. It was considered the endpoint of the maritime silk road, and a hub for arts, literature and music. There are many classic sculptures commissioned by Habsburg. The stories of past are showcased through these sculptures at his this deep-water port in the northern Italy. (Photo: ©Lotus Zheng|The Middle Land)

By Lotus Zheng

October 17, 2025
4:11 pm
Los Angeles, CA

When my car is exiting the highway on a coastal road, the cool, light breeze can be felt while arriving at the beautiful coastal city of Trieste right by the Adriatic Sea. Although it is located geographically in Southern Europe, its architecture and customs bring a Central European vibe. This special combination makes Trieste a very well known vacation destination for German-speaking tourists Trieste, located in the northeastern corner of Italy, differs from the other Italian regions, and it is often considered as a part of Austria. This comes from the long ruling of the Habsburg Monarchy of the Holy Roman Empire, and Trieste was considered a seaside town by Viennese. Trieste thrived during the late Austro-Hungarian Empire, under the reign of Empress Maria Theresa. Since Trieste was a

Trieste, located in the northeastern corner of Italy, differs from the other Italian regions, and it is often considered as a part of Austria. This comes from the long ruling of the Habsburg Monarchy of the Holy Roman Empire, and Trieste was considered a seaside town by Viennese. Trieste thrived during the late Austro-Hungarian Empire, under the reign of Empress Maria Theresa.

Trieste open city square is facing the Mediterranean see.(Photo: ©Lotus Zheng |The Middle Land)

Since Trieste was a port near the coast of the Gulf of Trieste, it developed into a busy trade port, as well as a center for music and literature. Consequently, much of its architecture and buildings are distinct to Habsburg taste, varying from classical and traditional Roman style.

Panoramic view of the Rive de Trieste, a stone promenade along the city’s harbor (Photo: © Luisa Vallon Fumi| Dreamstime.com)

Warm Autumn daylight shines the tranquil, crystal-clear blue waters. A distance ahead lies the ships and ferries gliding towards the shore. The soft, warm air unique to the Apennine Peninsula fills the delicate atmosphere. Going further down to the old town, Town Hall square or the Piazza Unity of Italy can be found along with crowded cafes, lively shopping streets, and charming antique shops which are all neatly arranged. At midday, locals typically relax at cafes while soaking in the gentle sunshine or seated by the docks, admiring the tankers and seabirds by the serene waves. Some even wander further out to go kayaking in the distance.

Duino Castle and view of the Gulf of Trieste, Italy (Photo: © Diana Crestan| Dreamstime.com)

What sets Trieste apart from Vienna is the location. Trieste is located on the seaside, creating an open and welcoming ambience. Yet, it also possesses the classical grandeur and an ample feel of German architecture.

Della Borsa Vecchia di Palazzo in Piazza della Borsa in Trieste, Italy (Photo: © Flaviu Boerescu| Dreamstime.com)

Italians are also very compassionate, big and kind-hearted people. When we stopped at a train station to ask for directions. A very sweet mother who was dropping off her daughter at the station explained the way to the city center in Italian while gesturing to show the general directions. During our traffic lights, the same woman suddenly got out of her car and approached my vehicle during the red light. She again gestured in Italian and said that she would take us to the old city center.

Our car followed her, eventually arriving at a big, gracious parking spot in the old town. The woman specifically helped us find this parking space and signaled us to stop there before driving off. Although we didn’t speak or understand Italian, her warm act of kindness helped us with selfless support.

Large canal with the backdrop of the church of Sant Antonio Nuovo in Trieste, Italy. (Photo:
© Cenkertekin| Dreamstime.com)

Despite a brief stay, the warmth of Trieste’s beauty and grace has stayed with us. We will definitely return for another delightful trip to experience the lovely and exquisite architecture and scenery.