A Beach Divided by a 3-Meter Wall: Tradition or Absurdity?
Imagine a beach on the Adriatic, but not just any beach — one where men and women are separated not only by space but by a concrete wall three meters high! Yes, you read that right. La Lanterna, a beach in Trieste, still holds on to this bizarre tradition from the 19th century, when Trieste was under Austro-Hungarian rule and moral rules were stricter than you can imagine.
A History That Refuses to Fade
While similar separations disappeared across Europe by the mid-20th century, La Lanterna decided to stay true to its old customs. A concrete wall divides the male and female sections of the beach, and men and women can only meet in the sea or on land, but not on the sunbathing area. Why? To preserve the “modesty of ladies” and provide comfort to those who want a break from the “watchful eyes” of the opposite sex.
Intriguing Names and Legends
Locals in Trieste call this beach “Pedočin,” which means “shell” in the local dialect. Some believe the nickname dates back to the Austro-Hungarian period when soldiers came here to “refresh” themselves — if you catch the drift. Others think the crowds on the beach resembled dense clusters of shellfish. Either way, the name adds another layer of mystery to this unusual spot.
Why Do People Still Love This Division?
TripAdvisor reviews are clear: many men and women enjoy this separation. Men praise their quieter side of the beach, while women with children have their own space free from “male” gazes. Some even say it’s the perfect beach if you want some peace with your spouse or partner. Entrance costs a symbolic €1.20, and the beach is open for sunbathing from May 15 to September 30.
Accessible to All
La Lanterna is not just traditional but also modern in some ways. It offers showers, toilets, changing rooms, and even storage for belongings. Importantly, the beach is fully accessible to people with disabilities, which is rare for such a unique destination.
Is It Time for Change?
While some praise this tradition as unique and comfortable, others wonder — isn’t it time for men and women to finally enjoy the beach together? Is the three-meter wall a symbol of outdated rules or just a charming reminder of the past?
Whether you’re for or against, you probably have something to say. Maybe it’s time to tear down this wall or keep it as an unusual tourist attraction? Share your thoughts — topics like this always spark fiery debates on social media!
Conclusion
La Lanterna is more than a beach — it’s a living museum of tradition, a place where past and present collide in the most unusual way. The three-meter wall may divide men and women, but it can’t divide the curiosity and discussion this beach ignites. If you’re an adventurer or just want to see something you won’t find anywhere else, Trieste and La Lanterna are waiting for you.
So, who’s up for sunbathing behind the wall? Or have you already tried it and got a story for us? Drop a comment, let’s see who’s brave and who’s hiding behind the wall! 😉
