by InTrieste
The Terrazza a Mare, one of the most recognizable symbols of Friuli Venezia Giulia’s Adriatic coast, is undergoing a sweeping transformation that regional officials describe as one of the most ambitious maritime redevelopment projects in Europe.
Governor Massimiliano Fedriga, who toured the construction site on Monday alongside Regional Councillor for Tourism and Productive Activities Sergio Emidio Bini and Lignano’s Mayor Laura Giorgi, called the project “a radical intervention of expansion, modernization, and enrichment” that will breathe new life into the seaside landmark.
“This is the largest construction site on the sea in Europe,” Fedriga said. “It’s an extraordinarily complex project, being developed with remarkable technical precision and professionalism. Next year, we’ll deliver to Lignano and the entire region a true jewel — one that will serve not only beachgoers but also promote year-round tourism.”
The governor emphasized that the redesigned Terrazza a Mare — a futuristic, shell-shaped structure that extends into the sea — will become a multifunctional hub, hosting conferences and wellness activities outside the traditional summer season. “The goal is to make it a point of reference for tourism in every season,” he added.
Councillor Bini highlighted the project’s logistical efficiency, noting that “despite the scale of the intervention, we’ve minimized the impact on the beach and on tourists, both acoustically and logistically.” He credited this to close coordination among all the entities involved, as well as to the careful planning that allowed Lignano’s beaches to remain open and accessible during the works.
Bini also confirmed that construction is advancing on schedule. The removal of external sheet piles is underway, and the marine works phase is nearly complete. Interior installations have been laid, and the next steps will focus on flooring and partition walls. The redevelopment represents a major public investment — nearly €18 million — and, according to Bini, “a strategic step made possible by the Region’s full acquisition of the property.”
“We wanted to restore this extraordinary structure to its original splendor,” Bini said, “confident that its renewed appeal will bring lasting economic and social benefits to the area.”
The renovation includes seismic and energy upgrades, as well as the reinforcement of the original 36 supporting pillars with an additional 100. The redesigned layout will expand the eastern deck, adding a new podium connected directly to the beach by a staircase. The space will host a daytime beach club that transforms into a restaurant in the evening.
At the end of the pier, plans call for a transparent infinity pool with panoramic sea views — a signature element of the new Terrazza a Mare. Inside, the main “conchiglia” (shell) will feature a restaurant, bar, and event space suitable for exhibitions and conferences. The smaller shell will continue to host ceremonies and meetings, while the tunnel leading to the pier will be repurposed into changing rooms for beachgoers.
Finally, the removal of the structure’s central canopy will reopen a direct visual line to the sea, restoring what officials describe as the original architectural vision of openness and harmony with the coastal landscape.
When completed, the project aims to position Lignano Sabbiadoro — already one of Italy’s best-known seaside resorts — as a destination that combines architectural innovation, sustainable tourism, and cultural appeal throughout the year.
