Aquileia

Founded by the Romans in 181 B.C. to defend the eastern Veneto region, Aquileia remains one of the major tourist and historical sites of the area. Although it has been all but forgotten by modern historians, the city of 200,000 was once one of the largest and most important in the Roman Empire. It was a center for production of amber carving, clay lamps and glass. A port brought trade from all over the empire.

Christianity became visible in the city one year after Constantine's Edict of Milan in 313, although underground worship may have been going on before this time. Two great worship halls were constructed by Theodore in 314.

The Visigoths and other raiders passed through between 401 and 408. The city never recovered after its destruction at the hands of Attila in 452. Many of the inhabitants fled to the island santuary of Grado. The Hungarians attacked the city in 899.

The basilica was rebuilt in 1031.

Aquileia is the home of some of the finest mosaics in the world.

There is an admission charge for the museum, monastery and certain parts of the basilica (including frescos from the ninth century) but the sites are well worth the price.

The most extensive accommodations will be found in Cervignano and Grado.