Who We Are

We are the Giuliano-Dalmati, a people rooted in a region that stretches from Gorizia to Ragusa, across Dalmatia along the eastern Adriatic coast.

The Giuliano-Dalmati identity includes those from Gorizia, Trieste, Fiume, Quarnero (including the islands of Cherso, Veglia, and Lussino), Zara, and all the Dalmatian islands.

Our Origins

This region has long been home to Latin peoples who merged with local cultures to form a distinct Mediterranean civilization, flourishing alongside seafaring merchants across the Mediterranean and beyond.

Before Roman times, this land was inhabited by tribes from central Europe—Celtici, Venetians, Carni, and Illyrians. These groups lived in fortified villages known as Castellieri, the ruins of which still dot the landscape.

One of the most notable figures of pre-Roman Istria was King Epulo, who ruled until 177 B.C. His tragic story, marked by resistance against the Roman advance, remains part of our history. The remains of the ancient Istrian capital can still be seen near modern-day Pula.

The Roman and Venetian Legacy

With the arrival of Rome, the region flourished, becoming a beacon of prosperity. Roman influence can still be seen in landmarks such as the Arena of Pula, the Roman Forum in Trieste, and ancient ports and villas in Ragusa, Spalato, Zara, and Fiume.

After Rome’s fall, the region faced waves of invasions. Yet, out of this turbulence, fortified island cities like Capodistria, Rovinj, and Venice rose, safeguarding the remnants of Roman civilization. Over time, these became the foundation of Venetian culture.

It is from this Italo-Venetian heritage that we draw our identity, language, and customs.

Under Venice and Austria-Hungary

Venice, or La Serenissima, became a dominant cultural and commercial force by the 1700s. However, following its fall, the region was divided between France and Austria. For over a century, the Giuliano-Dalmati were citizens of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, with a brief period under Napoleonic rule (1797–1812).

Despite industrial and maritime advancements under Austria-Hungary, the local Italian population was often marginalized in favor of Slavic communities, sowing seeds of tension.

A Changing Europe

After World War I, the Austro-Hungarian Empire collapsed. Italy reclaimed regions such as Trieste, Gorizia, and Pola, but much of Dalmatia became part of the new Kingdom of Yugoslavia. This prompted the first major exodus of Italo-Dalmati seeking to remain within Italy’s borders.

Tragedy and Exodus

World War II brought further turmoil. Following Italy’s defeat and Yugoslavia’s rise under Tito, the Giuliano-Dalmati faced persecution, violence, and ethnic cleansing. Thousands were killed or forced into exile simply for being Italian.

This marked the second, and most devastating, mass exodus. Around 350,000 Giuliano-Dalmati were displaced, many finding refuge in Italy and abroad. Today, approximately 10,000 live in Canada.

Our Legacy

In 1968, the Club Giuliano Dalmato of Toronto was established to preserve our heritage and community ties. We remain committed to honoring the Italo-Venetian culture, sharing our history, and passing on traditions to future generations.