NEARBY
Pordenone
Pordenone is the ancient Roman port of Portus Naonis, lying at the head of navigation canal of the River Noncello. In the past it was an important centre for trade and a meeting point for the different cultures of the Serenissima and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It later became a thriving centre of industrial pioneers – ceramics, cotton, household appliances and so on – and today its dynamic business people and industrialists find no conflict between the traditions of the past and the requirements of the 21st century economy.
The Province
Within a relatively short distance, the Province of Pordenone contains a wide rage of different types of countryside, of culture and of art. From the agricultural plain to the historical centres of important towns such as the splendid, almost Venetian town of Sacile, or Spilimbergo, with its world-famous Mosaic School, from walks through the natural landscape of the foothills towards the mountains to the traditional towns and villages scattered throughout the mountain valleys, from the celebrated Benedictine Abbey at Sesto al Reghena to the castles between Aviano and Valvasone, from the famous water sources of Polcenigo to excursions along the rivers or to the mountain lakes.
Trieste
The Regional capital of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Trieste, is a port again of Roman origin and lies about 90 kilometres from Pordenone. Different periods of foreign domination, especially by the Venetians and the Hapsburgs, all left their mark on the city, making it the crossroads of Mitteleuropa. The world-famous castle of Miramare, the mediaeval cathedral of San Giusto, and the breath-taking view from Piazza Unità d’Italia are just some of the important sites to see on your visit to the city.
Udine and the Collio area
Within a short distance, in a wide arc of hills which have for centuries been the gateway to north-east Europe, lies the provincial capital of Udine. The hilltop castle and the mediaeval quarter still with its walls, the churches decorated by Tiepolo, and the local museums should not be missed. Nor indeed should the many well-known restaurants and typical local osterie.
The nearby Collio doc wine-producing area is the place to go to taste excellent, world-class wines of many different varieties.
Venice
Considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world, Venice is only some 70 kilometres away and can be easily reached by both car or train. No-one should miss the opportunity to spend an unforgettable day in ‘the city built for lovers’.
The famous islands of Murano, Torcello, Burano and San Francesco del Deserto are also well worth a visit.