A region of north-east Italy, with administrative autonomy, bordering Austria and Slovenia, a crossroads of the Latin, German and Slavic cultures. It encompasses the historical region of Friuli and the geographical region of Venezia Giulia, each with its own distinct history, traditions and identity.

The economy is largely based on agriculture, the main crops being maize, sugar-beet, wheat, soy beans, and on the production of world renowned wines.