To understand what that border erected in 1947 meant for Gorizia, we suggest reaching the hill on which the Franciscan convent of Castagnavizza stands, at 142 metres above sea level.

From Piazzale De Amicis, go up Via Formica; at the end, climb the evocative Via della Cappella, and at its peak, you'll find yourself on the Castagnavizza hill.

Opposite the sanctuary, to the lower left is the Transalpina station. There's a beautiful view of Nova Gorica (New Gorizia), built in 1948 by order of Tito. Surrounding it is the crown of mountains "sacred to the Fatherland," where most of the eleven Battles of the Isonzo were fought. From left, Calvary (Podgora), Sabotin (with the now faded stone inscription "Nas Tito, our Tito"), Mount Santo with the sanctuary so dear to the people of Gorizia, Mount Santa Caterina, the Bainsizza plateau, Mount San Garbiele, and Mount San Marco.

The Castagnavizza convent, built on a pre-existing sacred building dating back to 1623, owes its importance to housing the remains of the Bourbons exiled from France. Looking toward Gorizia Castle, it seems almost touching; so close is it, one understands the meaninglessness of borders, with the border line even running along the edges of the houses.