San Daniele
The wonderful San Daniele del Friuli: known worldwide for its Prosciutto
San Daniele del Friuli, or as the locals call it "San Denêl," is a beautiful Italian city in the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. With a population of about 7,882 inhabitants, this city is known worldwide for its production of Prosciutto di San Daniele, a typical specialty of the area.
Physical geography
Territory
Perched on top of a hill 252 meters above sea level, San Daniele del Friuli offers a panoramic view of the entire surrounding area. The city's particular climate makes locally produced Prosciutto di San Daniele unique in taste and quality. The city is surrounded by nature, including the crystalline waters of the Tagliamento river, home to the Salmo trutta fario, appreciated for its prized meat. The city also enjoys proximity to the Adriatic Sea to the south and the beautiful mountain region of Carnia to the north. San Daniele also has historical ties with other cities in the area, such as San Daniele in Carinzia and San Daniele del Carso in Slovenia. The city is known for being welcoming and is part of the Slow City movement: an experience not to be missed.
Climate
History
San Daniele del Friuli, among the illustrious figures who contributed to its history, was the home of scholar and writer Giusto Fontanini, who lived between 1666 and 1736.
During the Friuli earthquake of 1976, the city suffered damage to the buildings of the historic center and works of art, causing some deaths and many injuries. However, San Daniele del Friuli was fortunate compared to other municipalities in the area.
Symbols
The city's coat of arms and flag were granted by decree of the President of the Republic on July 21, 1962. The flag is a beautiful crimson cloth.
Honors
Monuments and places of interest
San Daniele del Friuli is rich in art and culture, as evidenced by the wonderful Guarneriana Library. Founded in 1466 by Guarnerio d'Artegna, the library is one of the oldest in Italy and houses 173 manuscript codices, as well as numerous printed editions from the 16th century, a gift from Archbishop Giusto Fontanini to his city. The collection also includes numerous miniatures, including a rare edition of Dante's Inferno from the 14th century and the Levantine Bible, whose miniatures constitute an interesting mixture of Western and Levantine elements.
The city is home to many beautiful churches, including the Church of San Daniele in Castello, the Cathedral of San Daniele del Friuli, and the Church of Sant'Antonio Abate, known as the "Sistine Chapel of Friuli" for its wonderful frescoes by Pellegrino da San Daniele between 1497 and 1522.
The Territory Museum is housed in the cloister of the old hospital, while the Trecento House is another museum that houses ancient paintings and period furniture.
The Church of Santa Maria della Fratta dates back to the 14th century, while the Church of Sant'Andrea Apostolo in the locality of "Picaron" dates back to the 11th century. The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, consecrated in 1821, is another beautiful example of sacred architecture.
Porta Gemona, designed by Andrea Palladio in 1579, is worth a visit to admire the tower as a testimony to the ancient medieval castle.
Conclusion
San Daniele del Friuli is a gem of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a welcoming city rich in art, culture, and culinary tradition. With its historical monuments, museums, and production of one of the most famous food products in the world, Prosciutto di San Daniele, this city is definitely a destination not to be missed.
