Valvasone, the rural medieval village

The name Valvasone derives from the Old German wal (hill) and waso (meadow), meaning a “meadow with hills.” The history of the village is tied to its castle, first mentioned in 1206, inhabited by families connected to the Sbrojavacca and the patriarchs of Aquileia. In 1292, under Walterpertoldo of Spilimbergo and Patriarch Raimondo della Torre, the first city walls were built, giving rise to the Valvason-Cuccagna family and the surrounding village.

In the 15th century, Venice conquered the region, while between 1440 and 1500 the third and final circle of walls was built, including the hospital and the parish church, consecrated in 1484. Amid raids and revolts, the village endured until the Battle of the Tagliamento in 1797, when Napoleon Bonaparte defeated the Austrians and, according to legend, slept in the castle. Today, Valvasone Arzene preserves the medieval charm of its walls and castle.

What to see in Valvasone

The journey to discover Valvasone begins in Piazza Castello, protected by walls and a moat, where the Torre delle Ore (Clock Tower) or Tower of St. Anthony Abbot once served as the ancient entrance to the village. The square is dominated by the imposing Castello del Lupo and surrounded by medieval and later buildings, with details such as the 17th-century well.

Continuing along Via Erasmo, one reaches Piazza Libertà, with the Cathedral of the Holy Body of Christ, which houses the only still-functioning Venetian organ from the 16th century, with doors painted by Pordenone and completed by Pomponio Amalteo, as well as the Sacred Tablecloth of 1294. Nearby are the former chapel of San Giacomo (today the Pro Loco headquarters) and the Town Hall, built on arcaded structures of the second city wall.

Following Via San Pietro, one can admire the small Church of Saints Peter, Paul, and Anthony Abbot, once a hospice, and encounter the former Servite and Dominican convents, witnesses of the village’s religious and cultural history.

Events in the village

In Valvasone, traditions and events enliven the village throughout the year. On January 5, the Zîr dai arborâs is celebrated with traditional Epiphany bonfires. In September, the Organ Concerts in the Cathedral allow visitors to hear the only Venetian organ in Friuli. Also in September, the village hosts Medioevo a Valvasone, a historical reenactment with men-at-arms, noblewomen, craftsmen, fairytale banquets, and tastings in taverns, set among medieval alleys and squares.

What to see around Valvasone

Beyond exploring the medieval village itself, the surroundings of Valvasone offer places of great charm. The Tagliamento Nature Reserve features river landscapes and trails immersed in nature. Nearby villages such as Arzene and San Martino al Tagliamento preserve ancient churches, historic residences, and local traditions. In Sedegliano, the Museum of Rural Life is worth a visit, telling the story of the region’s farming heritage. Between art, history, and nature, the area around Valvasone invites authentic and evocative explorations.

A village rich in history deserves to be discovered with grace and serenity—pack your bags and set out to explore it.

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Cover photo credits: Wirestock Creators