Udine

Udine is a city and comune in northeastern Italy, in the middle of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, between the Adriatic Sea and the Alps (Alpi Carniche), less than 40 kilometers from the Slovenian border. Its population is approximately 100,000 inhabitants.

History

Udine was first attested in medieval Latin records as Udene in 983 and as Utinum around the year 1000. The origin of the name Udine is unclear. It has been tentatively suggested that the name may be of pre-Roman origin, connected with the Celtic element ud-, meaning "water".

Geography

Udine is located at the foothills of the eastern Alps close to the Adriatic Sea. The city is surrounded by hills leading to the Alps. The landscape surrounding Udine is characterized by the wide flatland of the Friuli plain and the Alpine foothills.

Economy

Udine's economy is based on traditional industries such as textiles, furniture, and wine-making. The city is also a major retail and service centre. In recent years, the development of mechanical industries has been increasingly important.

Culture

Udine is known for its historic architecture, including the Udine Castle, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata, and the Loggia del Lionello. The city is also home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Udine, established in 1978.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Udine is a reflection of its cultural and historical influences, including dishes such as Frico, a cheese and potato dish, and Prosciutto di San Daniele, a type of cured ham. The city is also known for its white wines, particularly those from the nearby Colli Orientali and Collio wine regions.

See also

• Friuli-Venezia Giulia
• List of cities in Italy
• University of Udine