Historically called Piazza Grande, the square on one side faces directly onto the sea of the Gulf of Trieste and on the other three sides is enclosed by splendid palaces: the Palazzo Modello, Casa Stratti which houses the historic Caffè degli Specchi, the Palazzo del Governo, the Lloyd Triestino building, the Hotel Duchi d’Aosta and the baroque Palazzo Pitteri. At the end of the square is the Town Hall with its arcades and clock tower, above which statues of two Moors strike the hours.

Continuing along the banks we reach the neighborhood known as Borgo Teresiano, which stands on the area of the old salt pans around the Ponterosso Canal that was had reclaimed by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria to meet the growing needs of the people of Trieste. First inhabited mainly by merchants and traders, following fervent development it attracted the interest of artists who embellished the buildings with their works, which can still be seen on many buildings today.

Making our way back toward the square, we reach Piazza della Borsa, with the Chamber of Commerce building distinguished by its Doric colonnade reminiscent of that of Greek temples. Above between the statues are the city of Trieste and the Danube River. On the left is the Tergesteo building, which was designed as a center for trade activities and, during the war, as a warehouse. On the right side, however, is Casa Rusconi, a rare example of Baroque architecture in Trieste. The square is also home to Casa Bartoli, an example of Trieste’s Art Nouveau style with large windows.

Through the Tergesteo Gallery we reach the G. Verdi Municipal Theater, built in neoclassical style and inspired by the more La Scala Theater. During the year, the winter opera season and summer Operetta Festival are held.