Island of the Sun holds the Italian record of Blue Flags and is a destination par excellence for family tourism. Also interesting is the widespread hotel in the Lagoon, to live the experience of a holiday in a typical casone, in the ancient fishermen's lodgings... #tuttitaly
"Island of the sun" is what the elegant town of Grado is called, whose 3 km of beach facing south is never in the shade.
Grado was born in 452 when the population took refuge on the lagoon's islands to escape the raids of the Huns on the mainland.
Only in 1936 was Grado connected to the mainland through the bridge's construction.
Grado is characterized by tiny squares and alleys overlooked by the colorful fishermen's houses, which create characteristic views between them.
The three basilicas
In Grado, we can visit Basilicas: the Basilica della Corte, the Basilica of Sant'Eufemia, and the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
The Basilica della Corte has now disappeared. However, we can admire the remains in Piazza Biagio Marin, where it is possible to observe the ancient mosaics thanks to the walkways.
The other two basilicas are in the old city, Campo dei Patriarchi. The current Basilica of Santa Eufemia stands on an ancient place of worship already present in the fourth century and known as the minor Basilica of Petrus. Note the bell tower, 42 m high.
The interior is particularly fascinating: with three naves separated by two series of 10 columns, each one different from the other. Also noteworthy are the mosaics on the floor, which extend for 700 square meters.
Not far from the Basilica of Santa Eufemia stands the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Worth a visit for its splendid mosaics arranged on two levels.
Between the two basilicas, the Baptistery is located. It dates back to the 5th century, has an octagonal plan, and the marble baptismal font rises in the center.
Manifestations
Every first Sunday of July, the Perdòn di Barbana is celebrated in Grado: a suggestive procession of boats decorated with flowers, garlands, and flags reaches the Marian sanctuary on the island of Barbana to fulfill an ancient vow of the city made 800 years ago.
Gastronomy
Boreto is the Grado dish par excellence: a tasty poor fish soup with white polenta. It was prepared by the fishermen who lived in the Casoni, who created a simple and tasty recipe using fish that could not be sold on the market.
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