Guide of Grado, Italy

Grado History, Italy

The origins of "Gradus", or port of call, dates back to the Roman Empire, when it was the port of call of Aquileia, providing a providential refuge for the locals following the barbarian invasions. In the Square of Patriarchs in the old city centre, the fascinating early Christian basilicas of S. Maria delle Grazie and of S. Eufemia are witness to the flourishing period when the Bishop of Grado was awarded with the tittle of Patriarch; with the growing power of the Venetian Republic, the importance of this patriarchy increasingly became overshadowed.

In 1815, when Grado became part of the Hasburg Empire and the emperor Franz Joseph of Austria officially promoted it as the “Treatment and Bath Station of Grado”, it attracted more and more tourists and its reputation of a high quality beach resort grew.

In 1918, after the First World War, Grado became part of the Kingdom of Italy. Important milestones were the institution of the Thermal Baths, the enlargement of the beaches, the creation of the Park of Roses, and especially the construction of the bridge, which made it possible for motorists to access the island from Cervignano, therby promoting the “mass tourism” of Grado.