Friulians

Friulians are a Romance ethnic group native to the Friuli region of northeastern Italy. They are primarily located in the Italian province of Udine, and also in parts of Pordenone, Gorizia, and Trieste. Friulians have their own distinct language, Friulian, which is an Rhaeto-Romance language. While Italian is widely spoken, many Friulians continue to use their native tongue, particularly in more rural areas and within families. The Friuli region has a rich history, having been influenced by various cultures over centuries, including Roman, Germanic, and Venetian. This historical background has shaped Friulian culture, traditions, and identity. Traditional Friulian cuisine often features ingredients like cornmeal, beans, and local cheeses, with dishes such as frico (a cheese-based dish) being well-known. The economy of Friuli has traditionally been agricultural, but it has also developed significant industrial sectors in recent decades. Friulians are known for their strong sense of regional identity and pride in their cultural heritage.