At one time, Trieste was part of the Austro-Hungarian empire. Today, the city is the capital and largest city of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. Trieste is isolated from the rest of the Italian peninsula, with the Slovenian border just a few miles away. The cosmopolitan city has a lively culture that combines Italian, Austrian, and Slovenian roots. The main square, Piazza Unita d'Italia, is surrounded by palaces, city hall, a fountain, and a statue. Many bars and cafes can be found in the open space of the main square. The city is also home to the Trieste Cathedral and several museums and theaters. Visitors enjoy the calm, quiet atmosphere of this underestimated strip of land.