by Nina Vaclavikova
Construction began this week on the renovation of Piazza Carlo Goldoni, a central square long seen as both a transit hub and a troubled public space, as city officials push to make it safer, greener, and more accessible.
Backed by more than €1 million in regional funding, the project is the result of a partnership between the Municipality of Trieste and the Prefecture, aimed at addressing urban decay while improving public safety and usability.
The redesign will remove a stone wall that has created blind spots, replace parts of the square’s “rain fountain” with greenery, and introduce new trees, lighting, and high-resolution surveillance cameras. Pedestrian routes will be upgraded, including tactile paths for visually impaired users, while traffic flow will be adjusted to prioritize foot traffic.
Officials say the goal is not only aesthetic but functional: to open up the space, increase visibility, and encourage broader use throughout the day.
The yearlong project reflects a broader effort by local authorities to rethink public spaces in Trieste, balancing historic character with modern demands for security and accessibility.
