For its 8th edition, the 42 km itinerary will start in Palmanova and then head towards Bagnaria Arsa and Cervignano del Friuli. Then, crossing again Palmanova to reach Aquileia through Terzio d'Aquileia, the marathon will end exactly where it started, at Piazza Grande in Palmanova. The main race will be joined by the second edition of the half marathon: the Iulia Augusta Half Marathon (21.097 km) will kick off at the same time and place, at 9.30 on Sunday morning from Piazza Grande in Palmanova. This year, Cividale hosted the opening ceremony of the event.
The best of it all, of course, it's the background: the historical centres of the cities, some of the most astounding in Friuli Venezia Giulia, each one with its unique, distinctive features. And other events complete the picture, extending the sporting opportunities to everyone.
Unesco in Rosa and Special Run
Women running against cancer. Unesco in Rosa (Unesco in Pink) is the leg of the event dedicated to women, a 7km route – more of a fit walking, than of a real run – starting at 10.45 am from Piazza Indipendenza in Cervignano del Friuli and ending among the imposing columns of the Roman Forum of Aquileia. Part of the proceeds from the registration fees will be donated to LILT-Lega Italiana Lotta ai Tumori (the Italian association against cancer).
The 2023 Unesco Cities Marathon FVG also includes a Special Run, a 4km route for Special Olympics athletes starting at 11am from Terzo di Aquileia and arriving in Aquileia. A celebration of the inclusiveness in sport, open to the athletes and their families too, it'll be the perfect chance to enjoy Aquileia's extraordinary ancient Roman spots.
For those who run, but also for those who walk and even better for those who walk with sticks. Two Nordic Walking 10km and 21km trails add to 2023 Unesco Cities Marathon FVG a touch of local history. Starting, like the main races, from Piazza Grande in Palmanova, they'll take nordic walkers to explore the military streets of the Fortress, once used by soldiers to defend the city, then inside the Rivellino tunnels through an underground path; then up the rampart, to the two guard lodges of the militias and the ammunition reserve. A not-to-be-missed experience to admire such incredible strongholds of time.
Trained to run and... save
The Bls-Run T Rianimatorincorsa, a team of rescuing runners trained in first aid interventions, will also join the marathon for the safety of all competitors. Palmanova's Red Cross section will guarantee the ambulance service to support the race, and professionals in physiotherapy from Movita Udine will assist anyone in need at the finishing line. Sporting associations from Friuli Venezia Giulia will provide refreshment points during the marathon, and local Protezione Civile (Civil Defense) will be ensuring the itinerary's security.
Photo Credits:
All photos taken from Unesco Cities Marathon's official Facebook account