Discovering the Historic Villages of Friuli Venezia Giulia: An Unmissable Itinerary

With the end of summer and the sultry heat, it is the ideal time to explore the historic villages of Friuli Venezia Giulia. These little jewels, rich in history and charm, are located a short distance from the Casale ai Prati farmhouse and offer a perfect itinerary for those who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the area. Here is an overview of the most evocative villages that can be reached in about 30 minutes by car from the Casale.

Cordovado: a return to the Middle Ages

The journey begins in Cordovado, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. This ancient medieval village welcomes visitors with a well-preserved castle, complete with moat, walls and gate towers. Walking among the historic homes of Villa Attimis and Palazzo Ridolfi, you can also admire the Sanctuary of the Madonna and the convent of the Dominican fathers. Near Cordovado, the Venchiaredo fountain, immersed in the woods, offers an atmosphere of peace and recalls the atmospheres described by Ippolito Nievo in "The Confessions of an Italian".

The medieval elegance of San Vito al Tagliamento

Continuing north, you reach San Vito al Tagliamento, a medieval town of great elegance. Its frescoed castle, surrounded by a moat and three access towers, is one of the points of greatest interest. The streets of the centre, lined with historic buildings, lead to the large square where the Duomo is located, guardian of numerous works of art. Among the churches to visit, those of Santa Maria dei Battuti stand out, with frescoes by Pomponio Amalteo, and that of the Annunciata, which preserves fourteenth-century frescoes. The “Giangiacomo Arrigoni” theatre, a small jewel influenced by the Venetian eighteenth century, is another unmissable stop.

Valvasone between history and tradition

The journey continues towards Valvasone Arzene, a village of great charm included among the most beautiful villages in Italy. The castle, with its moat and ancient walls, houses an eighteenth-century theater and a rich picture gallery. Also not to be missed is a visit to the 15th century mill, still functioning, and the Cathedral, which houses the only 16th century Venetian organ existing in Italy and a relic of a Eucharistic miracle which occurred in 1294 in Gruaro. In the Church of Santa Margherita, visitors can admire a painting by Pomponio Amalteo.

Sesto al Reghena: spirituality and nature

The itinerary ends in Sesto al Reghena, also listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy. The Benedictine abbey of Santa Maria in Sylivis, dating back to the Lombard age, represents an oasis of peace, accompanied by the relaxing sound of the Reghena river. The abbey's crypt houses treasures such as the urn of Saint Anastasia and devotional sculptures of Germanic origin, evidence of a history rich in power, spirituality and art.

Returning from this tour of history and nature, you can relax with a delicious aperitif under our porch, enjoying the tranquility of the place and refreshing yourself with a cold drink.

We are waiting for you at Casale ai Prati to discover the timeless beauty and charm of Friuli Venezia Giulia.