Erto e Casso Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the mountain village in Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Table of Contents
Erto e Casso
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Latest page update: 25 May 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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Discover Erto e Casso
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.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Erto e Casso
- Centro Storico di Erto is a cluster of stone houses perched on a steep mountainside, with narrow lanes and rustic wooden balconies. The village retains a distinctly Alpine character, shaped by centuries of mountain life. Many buildings still bear marks of the past, including the impact of the Vajont disaster. Its setting offers dramatic views of surrounding peaks and valleys.
- Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santa Maria Assunta stands in Erto, with a simple stone façade typical of mountain churches. Inside are modest altars and religious artworks. The church has long been a centre of local religious life. It remains a quiet place for reflection amid the village streets.
- Centro Storico di Casso lies slightly lower on the slopes, similarly built in stone with narrow alleys and wooden balconies. Casso offers views of the Vajont valley and the scarred landscape left by the 1963 landslide. Walking through the village gives a sense of resilience and quiet beauty. Its atmosphere is peaceful and reflective.
- Museo Vajont documents the tragic Vajont dam disaster of 1963, which deeply affected both villages. Exhibits include photographs, survivor testimonies, and geological explanations. The museum preserves the memory of the event and the people who lived through it. It’s a moving and educational visit for those interested in history and human resilience.
- Guided walks around Erto e Casso lead visitors along trails overlooking the Vajont dam and the landslide area. Local guides share stories of the disaster, geology, and the cultural history of the valley. Routes vary in length and difficulty. It’s a powerful way to connect with the landscape and understand the villages’ past.
Erto e Casso Tours and Activities
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 |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Erto e Casso
Photo Gallery
Erto e Casso Photo Gallery
Friuli-Venezia Giulia Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Trieste
2. Lakes of Fusine
3. Udine
4. Grado
5. Cividale del Friuli
6. Spilimbergo
7. Palmanova
8. Aquileia
9. Sacile
10. Muggia
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Friuli-Venezia Giulia
1. Trieste
2. Lakes of Fusine
3. Udine
4. Grado
5. Cividale del Friuli
6. Spilimbergo
7. Palmanova
8. Aquileia
9. Sacile
10. Muggia
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Friuli-Venezia Giulia
