Olympic Flame's Symbolic Passage Through Friuli Venezia Giulia
The Olympic Flame, a powerful symbol of unity and peace, is making its way through Italy's picturesque Friuli Venezia Giulia region on January 23rd and 24th, 2026, as part of the extensive torch relay for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. This leg of the journey is engaging numerous communities and showcasing the region's rich cultural and historical heritage.
The torch relay, officially known as 'Il Viaggio della Fiamma Olimpica' (The Journey of the Olympic Flame), commenced on November 26, 2025, in Olympia, Greece, and is set to conclude on February 6, 2026, in Milan for the opening ceremony. The flame will travel an impressive 12,000 kilometers across 110 Italian provinces over 63 days, involving 10,001 torchbearers.
January 23rd: Trieste and Historic Landmarks
On January 23rd, the Olympic Flame's journey through Friuli Venezia Giulia began in significant historical locations before reaching the regional capital. The flame passed through Aquileia, Ronchi dei Legionari, and Montefalcone, eventually arriving at the iconic Miramare Castle. The day culminated with the flame's arrival in Trieste, where it made its entrance into the magnificent Piazza Unità d'Italia, Europe's largest square overlooking the sea, around 7:30 PM. This moment served as a powerful celebration of the Olympic values of hope, inclusion, and unity.
January 24th: From Borderlands to Udine
The relay continued its journey on January 24th, highlighting the diverse landscapes and communities of Friuli Venezia Giulia. The flame traveled through Tarvisio and Gorizia, emphasizing the region's unique position as a borderland between Italy and Slovenia, and conveying a message of peace and brotherhood through sport. Later in the day, the torch proceeded through several other towns, including Gradisca d'Isonzo, Sagrado, Fogliano Redipuglia, Palmanova (a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its star-shaped fortress), and Cividale del Friuli (recognized for its Lombard heritage).
The day's events concluded in Udine, where the flame arrived at Piazza della Libertà around 7:30 PM. A segment involving 37 torchbearers led to a community celebration, marking another memorable stage of the relay.
The Spirit of the Games
The Olympic Torch Relay is supported by presenting partners Coca-Cola and Eni, who contribute to making each stage engaging and memorable. The torch itself, designed by Carlo Ratti Associati, is light blue, flute-shaped, made from recycled aluminum, and runs on renewable liquefied petroleum gas, embodying a commitment to sustainability. This journey through Friuli Venezia Giulia underscores the 'Italian Spirit' and brings people together in anticipation of the upcoming Winter Games.
5 Comments
Donatello
Traffic nightmares and disruption for locals, all for a fleeting moment. Not worth it.
Leonardo
They talk about sustainability but the carbon footprint of this whole relay must be huge.
Michelangelo
Love seeing Italy come alive for the Games! This relay brings so much joy.
Mariposa
Bringing the Olympic spirit to so many towns is truly uplifting for communities, especially the smaller ones. Yet, I hope the focus remains on the athletes and local engagement rather than just the grand show for tourists.
BuggaBoom
Just a massive distraction from real issues facing our communities. Focus on essentials.