Venzone
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Venzone is situated within the Province of Udine and has a population of around 2,000 residents.
It stands at an elevation of 230 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Among the town's highlights is the Venzone Baptistery where a collection of mummies is on display. |
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Places of interest nearby include Tolmezzo, Gemona del Friuli, Pontebba and Poffabro.
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Venzone • Friuli-Venezia Giulia • Medieval Village
Venzone is a medieval town in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy, located in the foothills of the Julian Alps along the Tagliamento River. Surrounded by imposing mountain scenery, it is renowned for its remarkable reconstruction following the 1976 earthquake, which saw the town painstakingly rebuilt stone by stone to preserve its original character. Today, Venzone stands as one of the best-preserved fortified towns in the region, offering visitors a glimpse into its medieval past and resilient spirit.
The town’s defining feature is its well-preserved walls, which enclose a historic centre filled with stone buildings, narrow streets, and arched passageways. The Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, originally built in the 14th century, was reconstructed using its original materials, maintaining its Gothic charm. Venzone is also known for its unique mummies, discovered in the town’s crypt and displayed in a small museum, providing insight into the natural mummification process that occurred in the area. The annual Festa della Zucca, a lively pumpkin festival celebrating local traditions and cuisine, attracts visitors from across the region.
To the south, Udine offers a blend of Venetian-influenced architecture, cultural landmarks, and bustling squares. A short distance north, the alpine landscapes of the Carnic Alps provide excellent hiking opportunities, with trails leading through forests and past traditional mountain huts. Nearby, the town of Gemona del Friuli shares a similar history of resilience and features its own impressive medieval architecture. With its rich history, mountain setting, and cultural significance, Venzone is one of the most distinctive towns in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
The town’s defining feature is its well-preserved walls, which enclose a historic centre filled with stone buildings, narrow streets, and arched passageways. The Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, originally built in the 14th century, was reconstructed using its original materials, maintaining its Gothic charm. Venzone is also known for its unique mummies, discovered in the town’s crypt and displayed in a small museum, providing insight into the natural mummification process that occurred in the area. The annual Festa della Zucca, a lively pumpkin festival celebrating local traditions and cuisine, attracts visitors from across the region.
To the south, Udine offers a blend of Venetian-influenced architecture, cultural landmarks, and bustling squares. A short distance north, the alpine landscapes of the Carnic Alps provide excellent hiking opportunities, with trails leading through forests and past traditional mountain huts. Nearby, the town of Gemona del Friuli shares a similar history of resilience and features its own impressive medieval architecture. With its rich history, mountain setting, and cultural significance, Venzone is one of the most distinctive towns in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Medieval Architecture: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Venzone and admire its well-preserved medieval buildings, including the fortified walls, towers, and the 13th-century Church of Sant'Andrea.
- Mummies of Venzone: Visit the unique and intriguing Mummies of Venzone, where several mummified bodies dating back to the 15th century are displayed in the crypt of the Church of Santa Maria.
- Town Museum: Explore the Town Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Venzone, including archaeological finds and exhibits on the earthquake and restoration.
- Venzone Festival: Experience the Venzone Festival, a lively celebration held annually, featuring traditional music, dance, food, and cultural events.
- Local Cuisine: Savour traditional Friulian dishes at the village's restaurants and trattorias, which often feature specialties like frico (a cheese and potato dish) and polenta.
- Festivals and Events: Participate in Venzone's cultural events and festivals, which offer a glimpse into the village's rich history and vibrant traditions.
- The Venzone Walls: Take a walk along the well-preserved medieval walls, which offer panoramic views of the village and the surrounding countryside.
Comune di Venzone
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Territory: UTI del Gemonese
Region: Friuli Venezia Giulia Population: 1,924 (in 2024 - source) Size: 54 km² Elevation: 230 metres Close by: Tolmezzo, Gemona del Friuli, Pontebba, Poffabro Recommended accommodation: Alma Living Hotel - Al Girarrosto |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Un Salotto tra le Mura (A Lounge Among the Walls)
Listing headline: Un Salotto tra le Mura (A Lounge Among the Walls)
