By Chloe A. Kiser, Syracuse University
On February 20th, 28 students loaded their baggage onto a private bus and set off on a five-hour journey to Trieste, a historic port city nestled along the Adriatic Sea near the Slovenian border. With stunning waterfront views and a rich blend of Italian, Slavic, and Austro-Hungarian influences, the city offered both beauty and history.
A guided walking tour introduced students to the heart of Trieste, including the magnificent Piazza Unità d’Italia, the largest sea-facing piazza in Europe, spanning approximately 12,280 square meters (about 132,000 square feet). Overlooking the Adriatic, the square provided a breathtaking backdrop for learning about the city’s past.
Students also sampled local cuisine, including the traditional “capo in B,” Trieste’s signature espresso served in a small glass, often enjoyed with a rich chocolate treat. They also tasted regional hors d’oeuvres and local prosecco, experiencing firsthand the flavors that define the area.
The adventure continued over 330 feet below the surface with a visit to Grotta Gigante, one of the largest accessible caves in the world and the second largest show cave in Europe. If the immense underground chamber failed to leave students in awe, the 500 steps back to the surface was sure to leave them breathless. Later, the group visited the solemn Risiera di San Sabba memorial, the only Nazi concentration camp on Italian soil, where they reflected on an important and sobering chapter of history.
The trip also included a day in Venice. With clear skies and sunshine reflecting off the canals, the city showed itself at its very best. Students spent the morning with their tour guides, learning about Venice’s most significant landmarks and its rich maritime history. From grand piazzas to quiet bridges tucked between narrow buildings, each corner offered something new to discover.
After the guided portion of the day, students had free time to explore on their own. Some wandered through the maze of winding streets, enjoying the sense of adventure that comes with getting slightly lost in Venice’s unique layout. Others sampled fresh Venetian seafood at local restaurants or browsed small shops filled with handmade goods. A few even took the opportunity to experience a traditional gondola ride along the canals, taking in the architecture and atmosphere from the water. The day provided a perfect balance of learning and independent exploration, leaving students as they departed with both dolphin sightings and lasting memories of one of Italy’s most iconic cities.