Erto e Casso
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The village of Erto e Casso is situated within the Province of Pordenone and has a population of around 370 residents. It stands at an elevation of 775 metres above sea level.
Places of interest nearby include the towns of Barcis, Poffabro, Maniago, Spilimbergo and Polcenigo while the recommended accommodation for Erto e Casso is La Voce del Tempo hotel. |
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Erto e Casso • Friuli-Venezia Giulia • Mountain Village
Erto e Casso is a small mountain municipality in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy, located in the rugged landscape of the Dolomiti Friulane. Perched on steep slopes above the Vajont Valley, it is best known for its connection to the tragic Vajont Dam disaster of 1963, which profoundly shaped the area’s history. Despite this sombre past, the villages of Erto and Casso have retained their traditional alpine character, with stone-built houses, narrow streets, and a deep connection to their mountainous surroundings.
Erto, the larger of the two villages, features well-preserved architecture that reflects its centuries-old heritage. The village is also home to the Vajont Disaster Memorial, which provides insight into the events that led to the catastrophic landslide and flood. Nearby, the abandoned remains of the dam itself stand as a stark reminder of the disaster. Casso, set higher up on the rocky slopes, offers spectacular views of the valley below and a quieter, more isolated atmosphere. Both villages are gateways to the Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti Friulane, a vast protected area with dramatic peaks, deep gorges, and unspoiled nature, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
To the east, the picturesque village of Barcis lies along its striking green lake, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Further south, the town of Longarone in Veneto, heavily affected by the Vajont disaster, now serves as a centre of remembrance and resilience. A short journey west leads to Cimolais, another mountain village that provides access to high-altitude trails and the wilderness of the Dolomites. With its dramatic history, alpine charm, and breathtaking scenery, Erto e Casso remains one of the most compelling and historically significant places in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Erto, the larger of the two villages, features well-preserved architecture that reflects its centuries-old heritage. The village is also home to the Vajont Disaster Memorial, which provides insight into the events that led to the catastrophic landslide and flood. Nearby, the abandoned remains of the dam itself stand as a stark reminder of the disaster. Casso, set higher up on the rocky slopes, offers spectacular views of the valley below and a quieter, more isolated atmosphere. Both villages are gateways to the Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti Friulane, a vast protected area with dramatic peaks, deep gorges, and unspoiled nature, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
To the east, the picturesque village of Barcis lies along its striking green lake, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Further south, the town of Longarone in Veneto, heavily affected by the Vajont disaster, now serves as a centre of remembrance and resilience. A short journey west leads to Cimolais, another mountain village that provides access to high-altitude trails and the wilderness of the Dolomites. With its dramatic history, alpine charm, and breathtaking scenery, Erto e Casso remains one of the most compelling and historically significant places in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
History
Erto e Casso's history is deeply intertwined with the development of hydroelectric power in the region. In the early 20th century, the Vajont Dam was constructed on the Vajont River, creating an artificial reservoir that would supply hydroelectric energy to the region. As a consequence, the original villages of Erto and Casso were submerged by the rising waters, displacing their residents.
The displaced population was relocated to new settlements, with Erto e Casso being built higher up on the slopes to overlook the Vajont reservoir. Tragically, the Vajont Dam disaster occurred in 1963 when a landslide into the reservoir caused a massive wave that swept through the valley, devastating several villages and leading to the loss of thousands of lives.
Today, Erto e Casso stands as a symbol of resilience, with its inhabitants preserving their cultural heritage and maintaining a connection to their submerged ancestral homes.
The displaced population was relocated to new settlements, with Erto e Casso being built higher up on the slopes to overlook the Vajont reservoir. Tragically, the Vajont Dam disaster occurred in 1963 when a landslide into the reservoir caused a massive wave that swept through the valley, devastating several villages and leading to the loss of thousands of lives.
Today, Erto e Casso stands as a symbol of resilience, with its inhabitants preserving their cultural heritage and maintaining a connection to their submerged ancestral homes.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Dolomite Mountains: The municipality is surrounded by the stunning Dolomite mountains, offering numerous hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and breathtaking vistas.
- Vajont Dam and Reservoir: Visit the Vajont Dam and the artificial reservoir to learn about the tragic history of the Vajont Dam disaster and its impact on the region.
- Ethnographic Museum: Explore the Ethnographic Museum of Erto e Casso, which showcases the cultural traditions and history of the local community.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy outdoor activities such as trekking, mountain biking, and birdwatching amidst the pristine natural surroundings.
- Traditional Architecture: Admire the characteristic stone and wood architecture of the new villages, reflecting the region's traditional building style.
- Remembrance Park: Pay your respects at the Remembrance Park, a memorial dedicated to the victims of the Vajont Dam disaster.
- Local Cuisine: Savour traditional Friulian dishes and specialties in the local restaurants and trattorias.
Comune di Erto e Casso
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Territory: UTI delle Valli e delle Dolomiti Friulane
Region: Friuli Venezia Giulia Population: 362 (in 2024 - source) Size: 52 km² Elevation: 775 metres Close by: Barcis, Poffabro, Maniago, Spilimbergo, Polcenigo Recommended hotel: La Voce del Tempo |
