Friuli

Fruli's history dates back to 400 BC and saw Celtic, Roman and Lombard populations intertwine along the centuries. When this Lombard duchy became a patriarchate (Patrie dal Friul) in 1077 its parliament (1231) and flag featuring the golden eagle on a blue background (1334) were among the first ones in Europe. Invaded and contested by surrounding countries, Friuli had to fight to preserve its strong linguistic and cultural identity. Friuli is today a geographical region of north-eastern Italy.