Faro della Vittoria (Vittoria Light), Trieste

The Vittoria Light (Faro della Vittoria) is one of Trieste’s most distinctive landmarks, combining the functions of a lighthouse and a monument. Completed in 1927, it was designed by architect Arduino Berlam and built on the foundations of the former Austrian fort Kressich, overlooking the Gulf of Trieste. The structure commemorates Italian sailors who lost their lives during the First World War, making it both a navigational aid and a national memorial. Rising to a total height of about 68 metres, it is topped by a copper statue of the Winged Victory by sculptor Giovanni Mayer, symbolising triumph and remembrance.

The base of the monument features inscriptions and decorative elements honouring the fallen. One of its most notable details is the anchor taken from the Austro-Hungarian battleship Viribus Unitis, sunk in 1918. The lighthouse tower is clad in white stone from Istria and greenish-grey Karst stone, giving it a striking appearance against the backdrop of sea and sky. Its light, situated 60 metres above sea level, continues to guide ships navigating the Adriatic.

Visitors can access the interior during certain periods of the year, climbing to the panoramic terrace for sweeping views of Trieste, the harbour, and the coastline stretching toward Slovenia. The site’s elevated position makes it a popular spot for photography and for appreciating the city’s maritime heritage. Whether approached from the sea or the city’s upper districts, the Vittoria Light stands as a visible reminder of Trieste’s naval history and its enduring connection to the Adriatic.