In addition to the action on the water, Barcolana’s influence is felt throughout the city of Trieste. In Piazza Unità, the city’s central square, the Barcolana Village will open on Saturday, October 5, featuring more than 200 exhibitors, sponsors, and institutions. A 50-foot yacht from the local Solaris shipyard will be docked in the heart of the square, showcasing Friuli Venezia Giulia’s shipbuilding expertise. The village will also host an immersive exhibit, “Deep Blue Exploration Zone,” highlighting the critical relationship between the ocean and life on Earth. The installation features video footage from deep-sea exploration missions conducted by the Schmidt Ocean Institute and the WWF’s Miramare Marine Protected Area, encouraging visitors to reflect on the fragile ecosystems beneath the waves. Barcolana’s commitment to education continues with The Human Safety Net initiative, organized by Generali, which offers free workshops for children focused on health and safety. “We’ve designed the Barcolana Village with a focus on joy, learning, and sharing,” said Gialuz. “It’s a place where everyone can come together to celebrate the sea.”