2014-2015 | PABLO DE MELLO
One of the main gates of Treviso showing the power of the once mighty Venice`s Republic
2014-2015 | PHOTOS & DESIGN BY PABLO DE MELLO
The breathtaking vision of Palladio`s Villa Capri emerging from the canola yellow flowers
VENETO T
he mighty, wealthy and grandious Veneto. Land of traditions and art. Venice and Verona. Doges and the Scala. Valpolicella and Prosecco. Romeo and Juliet. Palladio and Veronese. Garda and Cortina. Well, we could continue because the long list includes several examples of reference in terms of
excellence. For more than a year, I had the pleasure to live in such a lovely place and during all this time I never got tired to explore its treasures and beauties. And, to be honest, there are so many things to visit and check that it would take a life to see it all. Because each village has its enchants. Every part of this blessed territory has an impressive story to tell. The vision of frozen Alps from the distance is unforgetable as the view of the vineyards during the sundown in the Autumn. The mist of the rivers during the winter evokes mistery and fear as the panorama from the Sirmione Castle in Garda Lake during the summer is a refreshing memory. Unforgetable are the infinite exquisite architecture of villas and palaces, castles and city centers of all major cities. The ashtonishing combination of a Roman Arena amid lovely medieval buildings inside the huge wall of Verona is enough to causes admiration. Or the charming downtown of Vicenza with its loads of Palladian buildings, culminating with the absolute gorgeous Basilica and Villa Capra, architecture wonders that have influenciated so many constructions all around the world. And the noble heritage of education and knowledge of Padova and its wonders Giotto’s Cappella dei Scrovigni, one of the most important art treasures of the world, and the unique Prato della Valle. The sacred mountains of Asiago and Pasubio, scenes of tragedy and glory of the bloody battles of World War One against the Austrians. The mighty and lavish Po River from where the delicious Grana Padana cheese and salumi comes to satisfy our taste or the uncountless vineyards that produces a fine array of wine varieties in which the noble Amarone emerges as the sophisticate product of hand and taste. And, finishing with golden key, comes Venice with all of its power and tradition. An unique city representing the genius of the Venetian people in its higher glory. Well, ladies and gentlemen, Veneto is really somewhere out of this planet. This book is a shy attempt to share some of their wonders.
VENEZIA 116
VENEZIA
ARZIGNANO 16 ASIAGO 20 BASSANO DEL GRAPPA 26 BREGANZE 32 COSTABISSARA 36 CREAZZO 40 GAMBELLARA 44 GAMBUGLIANO 48 LAGO DI FIMON 52 LONIGO 58 LUMIGNANO 62 MAROSTICA 66 MONTECCHIO MAGGIORE 70 MONTICELLO DI FARA 74 NOGARAZZA 78 SAREGO 84 SCHIO 90 TOARA 96 VICENZA 102
VICENZA
Cittadella, one of many walled cities, evokes magic visions
180
174
TREVISO 186
CASTELFRANCO VENETO
TREVISO
PIAZOLLA SUL BRENTA
PADOVA 170
CITTADELLA 164
PADOVA
VERONA 156
SOAVE 148
SAN BONIFACIO 144
NEGRAR 138
MONFORTE D’ALPONE 132
VERONA
SAINT MARK’S LION
T
he Lion of St. Mark or the Wing Lion is the traditional symbol of Venice, since the old
days of the mighty Repubblica di Venezia to the current province and county and also the Region of Veneto is the representation of Saint Mark Evangelist. Part of an old Venezian tradition that tells about the upcoming of an angel in the shape of a wing lion to Saint Mark. The lion is also one of the four animals mentioned in the St. John’s Apocalipse and used to refer to St. Mark due to the power of his speeches. The image refletcs his noble and strong character and displays a wing to represent his spiritual elevation, a halo to demonstrate his sacred side and a book to show his wisdom and justice sense. Traditionaly, the Lion is represented with some variations. The book opened means the State sovereign during peace time. When is appears closed, means delegated power to magistrates. When it shows a sword, it means war period. There are more subtle variations and positions to the Lion. In any case, it is worldwide known as a heritage symbol of Venice’s power and proud confirmed by the crowds of tourists visiting the city every year.
ORGOGLIO An extremely proud people about its land and culture
GALLIO ASIAGO
BASSANO MAROSTICA BREGANZE
SCHIO
THIENE
DUEVILLE
ISOLA VI.
COSTABISSARA
VICENZA
ARZIGNANO
CREAZZO SOVIZZO
MONTECCHIO
GAMBELARA MONTICELLO
CAMISANO
ARCUGNANO FIMON
BRENDOLA MONTEBELLO ALTAVILLA MELEDO SAREGO LONIGO
TOARA
LONGARE LUMIGNANO
PROVINCE OF
VICENZA O
ne of the biggest provinces of the Region of Veneto, it is situated between the Berici Hills, the Pre Alps and the Brenta River in th west. Its main city is Vicenza, worldwide known as the Nothern Italian Renaissance and its beautiful
buildings and villas designed by Andrea Palladio. The rich province is divided in many counties and the most important are Bassano, Schio, Lonigo and Arcugnano. It houses a strong economy based on mechanic and textile industry, wine and services. Tourism is a main trend as well, offering some ashtoning examples of fine architecture in the cities and luxury in the villas spread all over the territory. I had the opportunity to visit it all over and experiment the beauty of this land crossing it by train, bus or bicycle. Countless times I got myself admiring the panorama. The sunset view from the Berici Hill of Vicenza framed by the frozen Pedemontana Mountains behind is an unforgetable moment as well as the famous Villa Capra or La Rotonda surrounded by a yellow sea of rapeseed during the spring. Another wonderful experience was to walk through the paths and trenches of Asiago, site of dramatic battles during the World War One. The War Memorial, a huge white marble arch, offers another breathtaking view. I cannot forget to mention all delicious food I could taste like the native Asiago cheese and the Maculan wine. Oh, wine represents a whole world of discoveries while explored many vineyards of the native Tai and Garganega grapes and respected and tradional winery proud to keep its legacy with care and love. Yes, Vicenza is amazing!
ARZIGNANO What a lovely town
Castello di Arzignano dominates the San Matteo hill
VICENZA ARZIGNANO
Inspiring vision towards the Castle
A
Church of San Matteo over the hill
rzignano is a small industrial town located
because of its Neoclassic style showing the peculiar
in Valle del Chiampo, one of the several
arrangement of columns and other elements. I tried to
valleys of the Lessinian Mountains, on the
walk around for while but the streets were too crowded
very edge of the Italian Alps and where
preventing me to take interesting photos of the place.
runs the Chiampo River. My main interest there was
So, I crossed the main square where the municipality is
to visit the castle, placed in the top of a hill and which
locate and drove to the Castle, not too far. The rise was
view was terrific. I decided to visit it in a winter sunny
a little bit bold and I can still remember the view of the
day departing from Vicenza, about 25 km away, and
castle placed in top of a hill full of snow. Unfortunately,
the feeling was fabulous cycling through the roads and
it was closed but the view over there is spectacular. So,
fields. After some hours passing by Creazzo, Sovizzo
I rested for a while admiring the panorama and then
and Montecchio Maggiore, I finally arrived in the town.
walked around outside the wall. After a while, I decided
The Centro Storico, the downtown, was crowded by
to go home. After all, it would takes only 25 km cycling in
locals, spending the Sunday afternoon around the
a terrific landscape!
Duomo where was taking place an interesting market. The temple reminded me many others churches around
19
ASIAGO Is it for real?
The Cathedral
Detail of the main street commerce
View of the main square and the Cathedral
Building of the municipality
VICENZA ASIAGO
A
siago is a lovely small town over the
around the hill and was very impressed by the
Plateau of Asiago and at the feet of the
beauty of the place as well of the monument`s
Italians Alps. It is the biggest and most
magnificence. I also could walk through the
well known town of the zone, famous for
several paths around it reaching the smaller
its traditional cheese and for its facilities for skying
town of Gallio, few kilometres close, and then
during the winter, attracting crowds of tourists hungry
returning to visit properly Asiago. The main
for action and fun. Unfortunately, it was scene for a
squares houses the massive Cathedral and
major battle over the Alps during the WWI between
also the exquisite City Hall and many other
Italians and Austrians when it suffered massive damage
elegant buildings and cafes. The centre is
being almost entirely destroyed. In order to honour the
quite small and full of commerce. After some
fallen heroes, it was built a massive monument called Il
while, took another path to vista a small lake
Sacrario di Asiago, where many soldiers are buried and
around and observe the peaceful landscape.
also housing a museum dedicated to the war where guns
My last stop before returning home was to visit
and equipments are exhibited. It is placed in the top of
the Hockey Arena in which the local team, very
a central hill on the Plateau with a breathtaking view.
respected in Italy.
Luckily, I could visit the town in a beautiful day although the monument was closed for tourists. I tried to to walk
23
BASSANO Inspiring sighs of a pretty town
DEL
GR
RAPPA
View the main square
The fountain
Traditional bar on the Ponte Vecchio
View of the main square and the Cathedral
VICENZA BASSANO DEL GRAPPA
O
ne of the most important cities of the Province famous for its bridge, Ponte Vecchio - designed by Palladio - over the Brenta River. It is a lovely industrial city with a very
interesting downtown full of shops, restaurants and cafes. During the summer, it is crowded by tourists and the winter reserves a very beautiful view with ice on the mountains. The city stands o n the feet of the famous Monte Grappa, spot of a bloody battle during the World War I. Have visited the city twice and both of them were nice moments. I recommend a trip around its streets and a beer in the Bruschetteria Al Porton. It is closed to the Bridge and to the famous Poli distillery. Other interesting spots are the Viale die Martiri,
well to observe shoots over the facade of a
where the panorama is absolutely fantastic, the Castello
building in front of the River, dating back to
deli Ezzelini which dominates the view of the city and, of
the French invasion in the XIX century. From
course, Piazza Liberta and Garibaldi and theirs buildings
Bassano, another good trip is to visit the WWI
and churches. The city was scene of some action during
monument over the Grappa mountain, with
the World War II sufering a lot of bombardments and saw
a cemetery and a museum. Well, Bassano
shoot between the German occupiers and the Partisans
offers so many attractions. Bassano is a
and the American troops. You can still observe some traces
typical Italian city that takes you to other
of it on the old church of Saint Francis. It is impressive as
time and dimensions.
29
PONTE VECCHIO Projected by Palladio and considered by UNESCo an World Heirtage, is the symbol of Bassano. Crosses the Brenta River and its panorama is breathtaking.
breganze Loved your wine so much!
Views of the city
VICENZA BREGANZE
A
cute small town with a fine wine
sleepy morning and the beautiful Duomo was closed. I
production at the feet of the Alps. What
had time to take a walk through its tiny streets and then
brought me there was a exciting visit to
moved toward the Cantina. It is placed nearly in the Old
Cantina Maculan, a respected winery
Centre and was easy to find it. There, I could visit all
which local wine, Torcolato, is extremely appreciated
facilities, from the processing section through the cellar.
in all Italy. Breganze is a small town with no more than
It was a lovely moment. Tradition, passion and expertise
ten thousand inhabitants in the banks of Astico River
combined in a cool and modern winery. After some
very near from the Alps. In that day, I decided to go by
tastings, it was time to leave. There was a storm coming
bicycle and took a train to Thiene. Once arrived, I went
and my way back was long.
by the Provincial Road 111, and after half hour crossed the Astico, many vineyards, the industrial zone and finally arrived at Breganze main square. It was a grey
35
COSTABISSARA Lots of pleasant memories
The calm rural landscape
VICENZA COSTABISSARA
S
o many times I passed through Costabissara
ruined shed very beatiful in the autumn and winter, an
and Madallene zone that somehow I created
exquisite row of cipresses extremely beautiful towards a
a special relationship with the place. It is a
villa over a hill and an interesting church.
very small district just outside Vicenza, going
Near, one can find some old Romans ruins of an
north to Schio and Pasubio. And duringmore than a year,
acqueduct that used to bring water from the mountains
I used to cross it cycling coming and going, sometimes
to the old Vicetia, the Roman Vicenza, something really
to go to the market I bought food for my dog or just to
unexpectable.
take some pictures.
The center of the town is really small and offer
The fields covered of now during the winter of 2015
few attractions as a charming garden, an interesting
were unforgetable. The colors and the texture of the
destillery for the production of Grappa and a strange
vineyards caused me deep impression and the view of
villa built as a castle on the top of a hill.
the far Alps was breathtaking. There are some special
Well, I had a lot of good moments. I miss you,
features as a small grove with a tiny spring, something
Costabissara!
nearly magic, and a crossroad with vineyards and
39
CREAZZO A hidden piece of peace
Old ruined house with Saint Anthony statue
Magnificent view from the hill
Particolary house
Suggestive panorama
VICENZA CREAZZO
Art-deco style post office
C
Little church in Via de Colle
reazzo is a tiny and charming town over
rise. There were few people around and soon I got the
a hill just few kilometers from Vicenza. It
main square where a exquisite post office stands in
is located along the provincial road n34,
front of the Duomo. There were some veterans chating.
the A4 highway and the railroad and have
Probably, it was a special day because soon arrived
the Retrone River on its border. Its position offers an
more ellegant gentlemen to the church. I kept walking
interesting view of Vicenza and the Berici Mountains.
through the tiny streets and check some few beautiful
Unfortunatelly, I couldn’t enjoy this view so much
buildings. Soon, I arrived to a place where the locals and
because of the fog. I remember all I could see was the
visitants can check the view. After somewhile, the trip
silhouette of the Duomo in the horizon highlighted by
was complete.
the houses. I wondered how beautiful it would be in a
There was nothing else to visit and quickly I took my
nice clean day.
bicycle back home with more nice memories.
Ok. The trip was short and it begun arriving to the
43
GAMBELLARA You produce such a good wine!
The main road to Gambellara with the Lessini mountains at the back
VICENZA GAMBELLARA
Zonin Winery cellar
G
Garganegas grapes vineyards
ambellara is one of many small districts
winter and the plants were dryed. After few minutes, I
producers of good wine in the Lessinian
arrived to the entrance of the winery, a huge building
Mountains, in the west of the Province. It
and soon I was introduced to the very interesting
is placed in the same valley of Monteforte
museum by a very kind employee that showed and
d`Alpone and very close to Arzignano, Montecchio and
explained much about the group and the art of making
Montebello.
wine. The tour was amazing because it holds a complete
What brought me there was the presence of Zonin,
collection of tools and instruments.
one of the biggest Italian wine group, with more than
Unfortunatelly, the visit to the production section
10 brands in its portfolio and a lot of heritage and
was forbidden for some reason. It was a shame because
expertise. I was interested in visiting a industrial
it is the most interesting part of every visit to a winery.
company that could show me another side of the
After that, the tour left us in the cellar, a wonderful
business, something in a bigger scale, that could
space with countless oak barrells. The last stop was in
help me to undestand better what does the wine realy
the shop where I could taste their products with the
represent to the people and to the country.
orientation of a very professional expert. After somewhile, I left the winery and started to cycle
I left Vicenza with my back in a cold and clean day and about 2 hours later, I arrived to the beginning of
around, visiting the streets, admiring the small main
Gambellara. There are a huge vineyard around, in the
church and exploring a little bit of the vast vineyard
plain ground and the view was amazing, even if it was
around. Yes. It was a lovely tour. Again!
47
GAMBUGLIANO A lovely and tiny wine village
VICENZA GAMBUGLIANO
The calm rural landscape
A
The campanile of the church of Valmolino
from Vicenza and got cycling exploring the place and small town near Sovizzo and Creazzo,
taking photographs. After few kilometres, we entered
placed at the bottom of a valley of the
a tiny valley where a tower stands out. It was the tower
Lessini Mountains and dedicated to
of a small church, strangely detached from the sacred
agriculture, mainly grapes and corn.
building, something that I never had seen before. After
Actually, I visited part of the zone arriving just a place
some time there, it was time to get home with nice
called Valdimolino. The day was cold and beautiful.
images in mind.
The vineyards were dry and we were just wandering by bike through the fields. We reached Sovizzo coming
51
LAGO
DI
FIMON
Magic visions of a lake in the winter
VICENZA LAGO DI FIMON
I
remember to think visiting Lake Fimon as soon
I really enjoyed to go round the lake, admiring the
as we arrived in Vicenza but I could only do that
landscape and having relaxing moments of peace. The
much later. The first one was in the winter and then
winter time brought memorable images. The snow on
some more opportunities later. Every time was a
the fields, the dry trees, the special light, all elements
different experience through a lovely way, departing
combined impressed me very much. Once, I had a brief
from Vicenza and passing by Villa Capri, Bacchiglione
conversation with a local that had a distant parent living
River, the A4 Highway, Longare and some amazing
in Brazil and I barely could understand him because of
fields around Torri di Arcugnano. Finally, we get to the
the particular accent spoken. Definitely, amazing. Well, I
Lake which is placed in the bottom of a valley in the
really miss those moments.
middle of the Berici Mountains. During the warm days, it is a green area plenty of forest and some interesting villas around. The locals come to fish and sail, to dive or have a picnic. Or just to hang around. I my case,
55
LONIGO
A busy charming town in the south of Berici Hills
The Cathedral
Detail of the dome of the Cathedral
View of the interior of the Cathedral
View of the Cathedral and the campanile
VICENZA LONIGO
L
onigo is a small town located in the very southwest of the Colli Berici and not too far from both Vicenza and Verona. The city stands in front
of the Padana Plain and it is famous for the elegant Villa Pisani, one of Palladio`s designs. I was intrigued by this city and it took me a while until I got ready to visit it. It was a cold foggy winter day. I took my small bicycle and rode along the busy SR11 road and then SP34 road through rural landscapes of vineyards and corn. Very beautiful views, specially arriving in the outskirts of Lonigo. Once arrived, visited its Duomo, an interesting neoromanic style. Then, I decided to take a walk through its streets and the main Piazza Garibald, an elegant space full of shops and cafes where Palazzo Pisani dominates the spot. After a couple of hours, decide to return home with some good memories.
61
LUMIGNANO A pitoresque village on the feet of the Berici
Chappel of the Villa Dottori Scaroni
Rural landscape
Rural landscape
VICENZA LUMIGNANO
L
umignano is a very small town, part of Longare and located in the east side of the Berici Mountains famous because of its climbing crags and sinister caves. The numerous cliffs
in the valley have been a major climbing destination since the early 1970. At one time Lumignano offered some of the hardest climbs in Italy. I visited Lumignano few times, always cycling and still remember some climbers over the cliffs and the tower of the church emerging from the distance. Very cool. My first time there was in a lovely day in autumn. There is a nice abandoned villa, Villa Scaroni Dottori, in the entrance that provoked a strange sense of lapse of time. The town itself is composed of a main street and few small streets with the church being the main feature apart of the cliffs. After a quick pit stop in a bar, we got back to Vicenza passing by Costozza, another Longare`s district and famous by the gorgeous Villa da Schio and Pietra di Vicenza, a sort of local limestone largely used in the buildings and sculptures.
65
MAROSTICA An enchanted walled town on a hill
View of Marostica and the Venetian plain from the old Castle
Detail of the main square
View of the Municipality tower from one gate
View of the main street
VICENZA MAROSTICA
are a few interesting buildings and churches in Marostica which you can see as you wander the historic town centre. The best thing to do though, which will tempt visitors from the moment they see the town, is to climb to the upper castle. In spring, this is a beautiful and peaceful place, colourful with many flowers including elegant irises. The castle is mostly ruined, but part of it houses an attractive restaurant which has a picturesque outdoors terrace and a garden within the castle walls. It is possible to climb up the walls, using steps
M
where lizards bask, to a rather precarious short walkway along the battlements. The arostica is a picturesque place, located with the
view over town is great, but I wouldn’t
Veneto plain on one side and green hills to the
recommend climbing to the battlements if
north. It is a small city with about 13 thousand
you’re nervous of heights.
inhabitants. Marostica’s own hill is crowned with a
The Chess Game (Partita a Scacchi di
large ruined castle; defensive walls descend to enclose the hillside
Marostica) takes place in even-numbered
and the town centre below in a protective embrace.
years on the second weekend in September.
Marostica bills itself as the ‘City of Chess’: every two years a
Tickets can be bought online in advance (see
medieval-themed festival is held here, when a giant chess game
right-hand links panel). In odd-numbered
is enacted with human chess-pieces. This takes place in the town
years the town hosts a chess tournament
square, Piazza del Castello, where the paving marks out a huge
instead. The story which is re-enacted
chessboard.
during the ‘living’ game, which involves
Marostica’s principal tourist sights are the two castles, one at
scores of costumed participants and human
the top of the hill above town, the other in the main square, Piazza
chess-pieces, is of a local ruler with a
Castello. In the square itself you can see the chessboard laid out in
beautiful daughter. She had two suitors but
paving stones, and admire the view up to the upper castle (Castello
rather than letting them fight a duel, the
Superiore). The lower castle, the Castello Inferiore, guards the
lord proposed a chess match with the winner
main entrance through the town walls. For four hundred years
receiving her hand in marriage and the loser
Marostica was ruled by Venice, and its dominion is recorded by a
marrying her younger sister (it is not clear
statue of the lion of St. Mark, Venice’s symbol, in the piazza. There
whether she had any say in the matter).
69
MONTECCHIO M
Good wine in the land of the Castles of Romeo and Juliet familie
MAGGIORE
es
The Duomo of Montecchio
Pitoresque rural landscape
The solene interior of the Duomo
VICENZA MONTECCHIO MAGGIORE
M
The sumptuous Villa Cordelina arostica is a picturesque place, located with the
are a few interesting buildings and churches
Veneto plain on one side and green hills to the
in Marostica which you can see as you
north. It is a small city with about 13 thousand
wander the historic town centre.
inhabitants. Marostica’s own hill is crowned with a
The best thing to do though, which will
large ruined castle; defensive walls descend to enclose the hillside
tempt visitors from the moment they see
and the town centre below in a protective embrace.
the town, is to climb to the upper castle.
Marostica bills itself as the ‘City of Chess’: every two years a
In spring, this is a beautiful and peaceful
medieval-themed festival is held here, when a giant chess game
place, colourful with many flowers including
is enacted with human chess-pieces. This takes place in the town
elegant irises. The castle is mostly ruined,
square, Piazza del Castello, where the paving marks out a huge
but part of it houses an attractive restaurant
chessboard.
which has a picturesque outdoors terrace
Marostica’s principal tourist sights are the two castles, one at
and a garden within the castle walls. It is
the top of the hill above town, the other in the main square, Piazza
possible to climb up the walls, using steps
Castello. In the square itself you can see the chessboard laid out in
where lizards bask, to a rather precarious
paving stones, and admire the view up to the upper castle (Castello
short walkway along the battlements. The
Superiore). The lower castle, the Castello Inferiore, guards the
view over town is great, but I wouldn’t
main entrance through the town walls. For four hundred years
recommend climbing to the battlements if
Marostica was ruled by Venice, and its dominion is recorded by a
you’re nervous of heights.
statue of the lion of St. Mark, Venice’s symbol, in the piazza. There
73
The Chess Game (Partita a Scacchi di
MONTICELLO What a breathtaking view from Villa La Favorita
DI
I
FARA
Vineyards all over the place
VICENZA MONTICELLO DI FARA
The impressive Villa Favorita
V
illa Favorita. In several times I looked at
visit because of the light of that particular afternoon.
that gorgeous building while travelling
Everything was tinted by a sort of golden tone and the
through train or car and wondered what
villa’s facade, a neoclassical design, emerged as a
was it. One day, I decided to go there.
dream. The sensation of illusion was improved as there
I took the train in Vicenza and left in Montebello. The
were no one around. The silence was only interrupted by
village is a industrial and rural district of Sarego. After
the cars far away on the highway.
some time among highways, railways and vineyards,
There is a small chappell placed around, an ellegant
I arrived in the charming road full of pines that leves
building with a neoclassical design as well. After few
to Villa Favorita, or Villa da Porto, its real name. It is a
hours admiring the view, I left the place once it was
majestic palace built by the Da Porto, a rich Venetian
closed and a further visit was impossible. I turned back
family in the Eighteen Century with design by the
again few days later to visit it again and that time there
architect Francesco Muttoni and it is placed over a small
was a marriage going on. What a proper place to get
hill surrounded by vineyards. It was a very impressive
married, I thought!
77
NOGARAZZA Magic visions among the frozen vineyards
Rural landscape during the winter
VICENZA NOGARAZZA
T
his small village caused deep impression
main economic activity is based on agriculture.
during the winter because of its fantastic
I could spent some hours cycling around among the
views of a frozen rural landscape. Nogarazza
snow and taking pictures. Unforgetable moments were
is a tiny and peaceful district in a valley of
those.
the Berici mountains no too far from the A4 highway. Its
81
SAREGO
Delicious wines and beautiful visions
Church of Sarego
River Brendola
Winter panorama
Vineyards
VICENZA SAREGO
The mist gave a magic atmosphere to the place
I
decided to include Sarego in this book mostly
church. It is located between Vicenza and Lonigo, just
because the very impressive images I could get in
close to the Berici mountains. The church is placed over
a winter day. I was going to visit Lonigo and the
a low hill and the village is surrounded by vineyards.
landscape caught my eyes and my spirit. The mist,
The Brendola River running along the road and the
the dry grapevines, the subtle hills and the colours.
mist of the morning gave to the place a sort of magic
Many elements that have left a deep impression. Sarego
atmosphere, very beautiful and particular. Really, magic
is another small rural village with few houses and the
moments that I’ll never forget.
87
SCHIO
A cute and charming industrial city
The Lane Rossi old textile industry building View of a street in downtown
Old industry building
View of a street in downtown
VICENZA SCHIO
S
chio can be considered a medium size town in the north of the Province, at the feet of the Alps and famous for its recent industrial past where huge textile factory as Lane Rossi grew
and prospered. And was exactly this factory what took my attention and made me want to visit it. So, again, in a cold and beautiful winter day, took my bike and road several hours through the pretty interior of the province towards north passing through many interesting spots. And the presence of the frozen Pasubio mountain always guiding the way is unforgetable. I arrived and took the direction of the imponent Duomo situated at the top of a hill. From there, the view is exquisite. After it, took the way to the ruins of Castello di Schio and then to the Fabbrica Alta, the main building of the Lanerossi factory, nowadays closed. Near, stands another important factory, Lanificio Conte, closed as well. Then, decided to walk through the tiny and charming streets of the downtown what took me back to the main square of the Duomo. So, I had and coffee and then turn back home.
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Superb view of Monte Pasubio and the traditional Lane Rossi factory
TOARA
It’s all about Colli Berici wine
Godi Piovene Winery
Tiny river in the entrance of the village
Vineyards covers huge territory
VICENZA TOARA
Godi Piovene Winery
T
The church dominates the village
oara is a very small village in the south of
product is a strong and particular red wine produced
the Berici Mountains dedicated to the wine
with Tai, a native grape from the region. The family’s
and grape production. It is the place where
main goal is to value this grape and make it so respected
Godi-Piovene, a modern and cool winery
and appreciated as its relatives as the Veronese
is based. I could visit them once. After some hours of
Rondinella. After a pleasant tour through the facilities of
cicling through places as Longare and Lumignano and
the winery, I could take a walk by the village. There was
very near to the Euganei Mountains, we finally have
no one. The grapevines were leafless, the sky was grey
arrived in a grey and sad winter day. The winery is
and the church looked lonely and sad. Appart this lonely
runned by the Piovene Family for many generations and
mood, it was a rich visit were once more time, I had the
the property dominates most of the village, including the
pleasure to testify the passion and care dedicated to the
hills and the facilities. The head office occupies an old
wine industry by the Italians.
and ellegant villa with more than 500 years. The main
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The intriguing cellar of the Godi Piovene Winery
VICENZA
A treasure of art and architecture in the feet of the Italian Alps
Palladio’s work highlights Vicenza in the world
The classic and simple Palladian style is everywhere
Teatro Olimpico stills causes deep emotions
Basilica takes major role
VICENZA VICENZA
Castello Tower is the higher building of the city and marks one of it’s main entrances
O
h, Vicenza‌ what an outstanding city. I have the
wonderful attraction, the Olympic Theater
pleasure to spent more than a year living there
- Il Teatro Olimpico - a reincarnation of an
among such beauty scenarios. What wonderful
old Roman Amphitheater where plays have
memories, what lovely images I`ll keep forever both
been performed for the last 500 years is
in my mind and my heart. Vicenza can be considered a medium city
breathtaking. The spirit of the city, the
of no more than 150 thousand people. It is a rich industrial city, the
character of the inhabitants are quite open
Italian capital of the gold jewell and also hosting heavy mechanic
and warm.
industries. However, its fame is based the architecture. Vicenza is
The traditional and inspiring Piazza
known to be the Palladio`s city due to the large number of buildings
dei Signori, situated where once was the
and villas designed by the revolutionary architect of the North
old Roman Agora, is the main heart of the
Italian Renaissance . The Basilica, La Loggia, Villas Rotonda and
city, housing the most important buildings
Valmarana and many more examples of fine projects that became a
and popular meetings. There is always a
tremendous trend and inspired uncountless buildings all over the
fair going on. More nice attractions are the
world. The downtown - Il Centro Storico - is a superb example of
Querini Park and the Salvi Garden both
fine architecture well preserved that survived wars and time, still
places of peace and beauty.
provokes emotion and admiration to crowds of tourists. Another
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Vicenza, La Bella e La Brava.
A simple day in Contra Riale
Mille miglia race taking place in Piazza dei Signori
Walk through the streets is about discovering Elusive visions from every corner
A very pitoresque postcard
Local traditions
Old and new sharing the same space A city of art and joy
The gate of Giardino Salvini during the winter
Duomo, mistery and faith in a misty morning
Beautiful angle of the Basilica Palladiana A day in life in Contra San Paolo
Bridge San Michele
Enchants of the Basilica Palladiana
Villa Capri or La Rotonda, the perfect Palladio building, inspires thousands works worldwide
VENEZIA
PROVINCE OF
VENEZIA W
hat is left to say about Venice? An unique piece of art and ingenuity that evokes deep sighs in every visitant and bring crowds along the whole year to testify the glory of the old Republic. There are so
many things to see in the city that takes most the time spent in the rest of the Region of Veneto. Its churches, bridges and particolary tiny alleys causes unforgettable visions. A tour by its tiny and charming channels on the famous boats, the Gondolas, become an unforgetable moment in everyone’s life. I love to observe the display of power. Evrywhere you can find the Lion of Saint Mark remembering you the great power of the Doges and their Republic of merchants. The trade made the fortune of the city and for some centuries, no other kingdom could rivalize wealthy and power. Its navy was famous and crossed all Mediterranean Sean bringing silk and species to Europe. Part of this wealthy was invested by its nobles in the rich Villas that sprawls in the interior of Veneto, from Verona to Treviso provinces. The land part was used to produce food and wine that flew to Venice and each farm had its own palace designed by some great architect like Paladdio, master of Renaissance, or Somozza or many more. The wine produced around is still renomed and all together forms an admirable frame of a great power. Venice is much more than its magnificent city. Unfortunatelly, I had no chance to taste it. Well, someday I’ll be back to fix this mistake!
VENEZIA
You will never discover all her wonderful secrets
The terrible Bridge of Sights
VENEZIA
Canal Grande offers an unforgetable experience
T
he proximity to Venice brought me three times to
The noise from different languages spoken
explore its wonders. A short and comfortable trip of
by the crowds that took the streets from the
less than a hour by train and I could take off in front
native, these much more rare to be found.
of the Canal Grande, one of the arteries of the city.
And, after all these thoughts you came
Remarkable the church in the other side, standing as it would give
across to a Gondoilere going to somewhere,
us welcome.
lke a dream, and after little you finally
Once arrived, I have usually walk randomly. The main goal was
arrive at the indescretible PIazza San Marco
to be able to explore its alleys and squares and not only the main
displaying all power and magnificence of the
spots. So, once decided the direction, all we had to do was to walk
old Repubblica di Venezia and, little further,
with eyes open and the camera ready to shoot.
the panorama of the Giudecca with the
Few things can be compared with walk without concerning.
exquisite silhouette of the church designed
In few hours, so much is seen. Many beautiful buildings, the
by Palladio and imortalized by many movies
Palazzi, where countless people have passed and lived. Churches
and post cards and photographies.
everywhere strangely to reinforce the faith or to oblige the citizen
Venice can’t be described in few lines. It
to praise. Each of them full of art and architecture treasures. The
is impossible. It have and should be felt with
confusion of smells, from delicious food to the strong sea perfum.
eyes and feelings. By your soul. Unpriceless.
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Il Gondoliero, one of the archepticals Venezian characters
ZIA
VENE VENEZ
V
EZIA ZIA
NEGRAR
PESCHIERA
VERONA
SOAVE MONFORTE S. BONIFACIO
PROVINCE OF
VERONA W
hat a blessed zone, Verona. Beyond the natural beauties, this majestic territory has been blessed since along the history. Its boundaries includes the banks of the lovely Garda`s Lake and the Lessini Mountains.
And, of course, plenty of fertile ground around where different species of grapes as Corvina and Rondinella, the soul of the famous Amarone of Valpollicella, Trebbiano, Molinara and many more. However, it is not only a wine zone that make the fame. Verona`s art and historic treasures are famous all around. The most famous love story, Romeo and Juliet, is about the forbidden love of two youngsters of rival Veronese families. Their family’s castles can still be visited along the highway to Vicenza. The magnificent Roman Arena, one of the best well preserved ancient site in all Italy is a clear symbol of the importance of the city and the province due to its localization. Later, Verona became the capital of the Ostrogoths. The sucessive centuries brought several different rulers as the Scala family but Verona’s wealth and power always remained preserved. The Castelvecchio is a witness of it. Verona has been a place of art and culture and its main churches and buildings are an example of it. There are endless examples of the province’s imoprtance. As the breathtaking cities of Soave and Sirmione. Verona is really an impressive place worthy to be visited and admired.
MONFORTE D’A A lovely and tiny village in the Soave wine zone
ALPONE
Duomo of Monforte
VERONA MONFORTE D’ALPONE
Castello Tower is the higher building of the city and marks one of it’s main entrances
M
onforte is a pitoresque village very near to Soave
The tall columns of the Santa Maria
and famous for the wine. Actually, it is the Lessini
Maggiore church, designed in the neoclassic
Mountains that separates both towns and supplies
style by the architect Conte Giullari are
land and conditions to the Garganega grape
extremely impressive as the highness of its
grow. And was the Soave wine the reason that brought me to this
spire. The interior is a sober ambient with
charming lovely town. The main church’s spire emerges from the
some statues and paintings. The view from
hill and always caught my immagination while I was travelling
outside was amazing.
along the A4 highway. And I decided to get there after visiting a winery in Soave.
Few minutes later, I crossed its tiny and silent streets to visit the M0nforte Social
So, after a short trip I got to Monforte entrance. I remember there were few people walking in its streets. It was lunch time of a hot day and that loneless was a little bit impressive. Monforte was built around a hill and the streets leaves to the center where the city hall and the main church stays at the same square. It reminded me a Giorgio di Chirico’s painting.
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Winery, a cooperative of grape and wine producers where I was very well received. Well, all was doing well and the tour was over for that day.
NEGRAR
The sacred craddle of the Amarone wine in the very heart of Valp
pollicela Classico
Negrar is one of the towns belonging to the Valpollicela Classico zone
The fantastic cellar of Cantina Mazzi
Rondinela grapes drying in the passimento technique
VERONA NEGRAR
There is always a surprise waiting for your eyes in Italy: Valpolicella vineyards
W
hat a memorable trip! I was planning to visit the
spot.
Valpolicella zone for some time and the main
After while, we got to a particular hill
issue was to get there once it’s location over
and arrived to the Mazzi winery, a small and
the Lessini Mountains. So, I decided to vist the
familiar winery that produces a spectacular
Cantina Sociale di Negrar, one of several wineries placed in Negrar,
wine. There, we were introduced to its
part of what is called Valpolicella Classico, the traditional and
dependencies where we checked the story
superior production zone according to the DOC standard definition.
and traditions of the business as well as
And after a train trip to Verona and another by bus to arrive
the production section and pitoresque
there, it was a disappointing and brief experience in that particular
cellar. After splendid moments, we left the
winery. We decided to explore the valley and walk without
valley and turned back to Verona to spend
direction. The valley peaks is not too high and is totally occupied
the rest of the day. It was really a fantastic
by vineyards in different properties. It seems that most of them
experience.
belonging to small productors. The views are amazing. There are many cipresses and charming constructions making it an unique
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SAN BONIFACIO Welcome to the Soave wine world
O
Garganega vineyards all around San Bonifacio
A modern winery sprawl a provocative smell
The charming San PIetro church
An old industry reminds nothing lasts
VERONA NEGRAR
San Pietro church stays over an ancient pagan site
S
an Bonifacio is an industrial city in the Soave zone
impression even more because of a mass
separated by the railway and the A4 highway. It is a less
service going on envolved a lot of dedicated
charming city compared to Soave although its center
people.
is quite nice. The only reason thta made me visit it was
Not too far, there is a fantastic old
the trains station that tooke me from Vicenza to visit the wineries
factory, closed, almost in ruins. I couldn’t
around. I departed twice from the station towards the Soave Castle
find any information about it, unfortunatelly.
and visited some spots along the way.
In another occasion, I could visit the
There is a big winery located near to the train station, the
city center briefly and noted the fina church
Cantina dei Colli Berici, that was closed to visit. In any case, it
in the main square surrounded by some
seemed extremely modern to me, lacking that traditional approach
ellegant and imposing public buildings.
that enthusiast the wine lovers. Few meters ahead, there is an old church, San Pietro Abbey, which story made me wonder. It is said that its spire was built over the site of a sacred oak, adored in pagans rituals. True or not, the building itself caused me deep
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Well, that’s all about it.
SOAVE
Tasting great wine and living magic experiences
Many good restaurants on the quiet streets The main gate of the old Scaligero Castle
The neoclassical style of the Cathedral Enchanting streets
VERONA SOAVE
F
From up the hill, a breathtaking vision of the Valley full of vineyards or, one of the first things I decided when arrived in
guide was extremely kind and explained the
Vicenza from Florence was to visit that fabulous castle
history of the local with enthusiasm.
that enchanted me years before. Soave Castle, built over the hill with the same name is one the most charming
After the visit, all left was to walk around the vineyards. They were plenty of sweet
walled towns in all Veneto due to its aura and panorama. It
and mature grapes that made us happy.
dominates the hill and the valley and is sweetly surrounded by
The views and the ways were absolutely
vineyards that produces the highly appreciated Soave white wine.
amazing. The end of the tour was having
I was lucky enough to visit it twice. The first was a hot summer
a proper pasta in the Antica Tratoria
day and was not overcrowded. I walked through the tiny streets
da Amedeo, a fantastic restaurant that
of the town out of the castle, exploring each alley and wondering
remained open at afternoon.
about the old days. Then, took the way to the castle and got
The second time was visiting the great
ashtonished by the view from the main tower. It reaches miles
Monte Tondo winery, a little bit away from
away, on the Padana plain and around the green valley. It is so
the walls. I had great moments there,
beautiful! There are some interesting attractions in the castle
exploring the cellars and then taking
to visit. One of them is the chambers of the family, keeping the
pictures of the fantastic castle once more.
old furniture and some knight armours very well preserved. The
Soave is definitelly forever in my heart!
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The castle dominates the hill and the valley
Garganega vineyards all around the valley
Ashtonishing vision from the old castle
VERONA
The fascinanting city of Romeo and Juliet will enchant you
Verona emulates plenty evocative images
VERONA
Piazza delle Erbe pulses with daily market and crowds of tourists
V
erona, wonderful Verona! In my opinion, one
After that, you will discover the wonders of Piazza
of the most beautiful Italian cities which
delle Erbe and all features around as the Lamberti Tower
should be part of every tourist itinerary. To
and all the magnificent medieval buildings around with
walk through its alleys and squares is like
painted facades. The market is local market is amazing.
a dream because of the profusion of beautiful buildings,
The rich decoration of the Scaligeri Tomb is fabulous.
charming shops and the beauty of the place.
There are many great churchs as the San Zeno or the
I could visit it in different occasions and every time
Duomo full of art treasures. The Juliet House attracts
I got the same feeling of dazzle and fascination. The
crowds of tourists and everybody wants to squeeze
breathtaking view of the constructions over the hill and
her statue’s tit! I loved to walk along the riverbank and
the Adige River smoothly running is enough to envolve
wonder about time and history. After while, is fascinating
and once you cross the main gate and arrive to Bra square
the view of the whole city from the Roman Amphiteatre
you start to realize how wonderful is that place. The Arena
placed over the hill. Ponte Pietra, just close to it is always
among some gorgeous neoclassical buildings works like
overcrowded and the tiny streets around are wonderful to
a punch: you can feel the weight of the history and art in
walk in peace. There are many more attractions as Porta
front of you. The experience to watch a concert or Romeo
Borsari, the Castlevecchio or a glass of wine in Antica
and Juliet in that sacred place is unbelievable.
Bottega Trattoria to make this trip unforgetable!
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Ashtoning view of the River Adige, the Ponte PIetra and Verona from the Roman Theater
PIazza delle Erbe in a pretty sunny day of July
CITTADELLA
PIAZZOLA AL BRENTA
PADOVA
PROVINCE OF
PADOVA P
adova’s Province is one of the richest in all North of Italy. Traditions, heritage, knowledge. Art and good food. Its borders are Vicenza, Rovigo, Treviso and Venezia. The territory is basically a huge plain cut by River Brenta with a small chain
of hills, the Euganei Mountais, at the west - almost attached to the Berici Mountains and famous for the special wines produced. The most important cities are Padova, of course, Albignasego and Cittadella. Since I have visited Padova and its towns few times, I don`t know it very well. However, I like very much all those bits I could check. Padova is an amazing city to visit. It offers the charming beauty of most of the big cities with a diverse array of attractions as the gorgeous Palazzo della Raggione, il Prato, il Orologio, the magnificent Basilica di santo Antonio and, of course, the art masterpieces of Menabuoi and Giotto. In Padova, is located one of the oldest European Universities in which Galileo Galilei taught for some years. It is also important for its important industry and agricultural products. The River Brenta coming from the Pedemontana Mountains is a mighty and beautiful river and I crossed it few times what left me vivid memories of its amazing turquoise colour. Cittadella left me deep impressions since my first time because of its walls. Every time I visited it, I felt in a different period of time. And the breathtaking Villa Contarini, in Piazzola, was a pleasant memory as well.
CITTADELLA Feeling if time has stopped four hundred years
The Cathedral emerges from the houses
One of the gates of the town
Breathtaking view from up the wall
Enchanting and calm streets
PADOVA CITTADELLA
Cittadella’s wall is still intact and keeps the medieval atmosphere
E
nchanted. This was the feeling I had while
a walk around the town by the way on the wall. What a
walking through its tiny alley and on the wall
breathtaking views from the frozen Alps and the plains
ways. My first time there was an accident.
around as well as the Duomo and buidings of the town.
I was going to Vicenza and did not realized
Very, very beautiful. I tryed to imagine what it would
that we missed the station and arrived to Cittadella!
be to live inside those walls and it seemed to be a little
Since that day, I was planning to visit it in a proper
uncomfortable after all!
way and, some years later, I could do it. Starting from
After that nice tour, I explore for a while its streets,
CastleFranco Veneto, I was cycling through some
taking some pictures and observing the inhabitants.
Provincial roads and finally reached those wonderful
There was a funeral taking place in the Duomo what
walls.
prevented me to visit it. That`s ok.
It is a small walled town with a charming square
There was no much more to see and I finally had a
where the families come to enjoy the day in the
pint or two of a good Nastro Azzurro beer in a cafe and
restaurants and cafĂŠs. I started the trip visiting the
then decide to cycle back home. It was a very nice visit
interesting museum with many medieval memorabilia
at the end.
- special note for the armour collection - and then had
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Impressive view of the wall and the channel
PADOVA
A charming city of history, faith and knowledge
The sacred relics of Saint Anthony are exhibited on a gorgeous display
The Clock Tower
The Baptistery painted by Menabuoi
Famous Cafe Pedrocchi
The Eremitani church
PADOVA
The imponent Cathedral of Saint Anthony attracts crowds of Catholics
S
trangely, I lived for more than a year less than a hour to
Another wonder, the Pallazo della Ragione is a massive
Padova and visited it few times. I hardly know it appart
building erected in the XIII century with marble arches to
its main features. What a shame. Because Padova is a
be the center of the power. There is a pitoresque market
charming city full of history and nice things to check.
in the same square and just few meters close, there is
I could feel its wealth and power just arriving to the train
the lovely Piazza dei Signori, crowded with cafes and
station. The massive buildings around indicates that we are in a
restaurants. The watch of the Palazzo del Capitano’s
rich industrial city. But who could guess that few meters ahead
tower emoldurates this lovely medieval feature.
you can find some Romans ruins of an amphiteatre and one of the
It is a unforgetable experience to explore the streets
history`s greatest art treasures, the schocking Cappella Scrovegni,
of these medieval Italian cities but nothing prepares you
painted by the first art genius we had, Giotto. I`ll never forget their
for what comes next, the Prato della Valle, a wonderful
characters and the rich blue around the walls. It is a shame that we
garden located close to the Univesity, one of the Europe’s
can`t visit another art treasure, a Mantegna`s fresco lost during the
first education centers, where Galileo Galilei taught, and
WWII bombardments
the great Santo Antonio’s church, a peregrination center
Near these wonders, there is the downtown full of gorgeous
that attracts millions every year to admire the saint’s
buildings. One traditional feature, cafe Pedrocchi, is placed in
relics. There are so many interesting features of this
a exquisite building and attracts crowds of locals and tourists.
amazing city that worth a longer visit.
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PIAZOLLA
SUL
The fascinanting city of Romeo and Juliet will enchant you
B
BRENTA
Fantastic view of Villa Contarini
Detail of the ellegant facade
Iconic statue in the garden of Villa Contarini Gorgeous entrance
PADOVA CARMIGNANO
D
The ellegant church of Don Bosco at the entrance of the town uring my days in Vicenza, I discovered the brilliant
is remarkable. I was coming from a road
work of Palladio and got curious to visit one of his
and at my right there was the palace and at
largest projects, Villa Contarini. This huge and
the other side stands a huge open area, a
impressive palace was built for the Contarini, a
piazza, flanked by a semicircular building
wealthy and powerful Venezian family, from which 8 Doges
with a elegant sequence of columns,
emerged. It was designed in the XVI century and suffered later and
creating a space for shops and cafes. After
deep transformation, not totally clear if by the hands of Scamozzi
a while, I entered the property, crossing
or Longhena. The fact is that it changed so radically that we can
the beautifully ornamented gate and the
hardly recognise Palladio`s style, becoming a mixture os styles
English garden and stood observing the
and interpretations closer to the Baroque than the original classic.
lines of the building. It was rebuilt in a
So, once again, I did the trip cycling through the lovely Veneto`s
way that is difficult to hidden the different
plain lands. The day was gorgeous and the mountains were filled
amendments. The long wings, full of
with snow. Unforgetable. I had to take the east direction passing
columns and statues, converge to the main
through some nice towns as Torri di Quartesolo and Camisano and
central building, a massive three floor
after about 25 kilometers, I finally arrived there. Piazzola is a very
palace showing several venetian windows
small town and the villa is located at the border. Its magnificence
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CASTELFRANCO VENETO
TREVISO
PROVINCE OF
TREVISO T
he big territory of Treviso holds part of the Pedemontana and the plains and is cut in two by the Piave River. Its special sparkling wine, Prosecco, make this land well known worldwide. My first time there was crossing it to visit the
birthplace of my wife`s ancestors near to Udine, in the region of Venezia Giulia. But I remember the green mountains and the peaceful small villas we passed by. Then, I visited the magic Treviso, called as The Venice of the Interior. I spent few hours wandering throughout its streets and visiting its main attractions, as the channels and, in particular, the main museum full of interesting pieces of artwork. The last place I had the chance to visit was the tiny and cute Castelfranco, a lovely walled city.
CASTELFRANCO Feel the splendour of a medieval walled town
O VENETO
PItoresque vision
Charming and calm streets
Take your time
Charming and calm streets
TREVISO CASTELFRANCO VENETO
The main street of this tiny and calm town can be walked in few minutes
T
he walled towns across Italy caught my attention
walls that became a popular postcard. So,
since my first year in Florence. It is amazing to visit a
after arrived, I moved quickly to one of the
place built with the urge to defend itself from invasors
three gates, the one with the tower. Once
and enemies. The idea to be safe inside a wall scared
crossed, I walked through the main road and
me and when I arrived in Veneto, I realised that there are many
visited the Duomo - a habit that I enjoyed
amazing walled town everywhere. After visiting Marostica,
during my days in Italy. The lovely small
Cittadella and Soave, I decided to check Castelfranco, between
church is beautiful inside and houses some
Treviso and Cittadella, cycling. So, I took a train to Castelfranco
interesting paintings,. After some while, I
and returned to Vicenza by bike, crossing the Brenta River as
left it and explore the streets around. What a
a gran finale to this awesome trip. Castelfranco is a very tiny
lovely town! The beautiful Teatro Accademico
city, even compared to Cittadella and is basically composed
caught my eye because its sober lines. After
by the two main streets crossed with some small alley around
that, all left was to get out - but first, taking
inside an almost perfect square. The modern city rose around
a bunch pictures. Castelfranco left some
it and happens a nice fair outside the walls on Sundays. There
good memories, definitely.
are some lovely statues placed in the pathways just outside the
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Time to go home
Just wondering as I did
TREVISO The rich city of enchanting channels
The solene neoclassic style of the Cathedral
A relaxing moment at Piazza dei Signori
The channels runs quietly through the streets
A rich city proud of its ellegant buildings
TREVISO
Piazza dei Signori, the main square where the imponent Palazzo del Trecento dominates the spot
W
hat a lovely town you are, dear Treviso! Veneto
built between the XIII and XIX centuries. Then,
has so many pleasant places to offer and Treviso
Piazza Vittoria, a more modern section of
is one of its best treasures, indeed. The little
the city. The journey continued through its
Venice of the mainland, according to locals
streets passing by the beautiful Palazzo del
and tourists, is placed over a special zone which is populated by
Monti di Pieta and arriving to the cute Piazza
tiny channels making it a charming place to visit. In a winter day,
S. Leonardo. There, after a break for a coffee,
I could spent lovely hours walking around wondering once again
crossed the Cagnan Channel and finally got to
about the Italian marvels. I started the journey arriving in the
St. Caterina church that houses the outstanding
train station and, after few minutes walking through the elegant
Civic Museum where the visitant can admire a
Corso del Popoplo, could cross the Sile River and get the small
respected collection of art from the medieval
and lovely Piazza die Signori, the very beating heart of the city.
to contemporary and archaeologic pieces.
There are some great examples of the medieval and Renaissance
The next stop was to check the amazing San
architecture - some of them sadly rebuilt after the WWII
Tomaso Gate, a wonderful work in marble
bombardments damages, as the impressive Palazzo dei Trecento
displaying the mighty Lion of the Venetian
and the delicate Loggia die Cavalieri. MInutes of admiration and
Republic. After that, I spent more pleasant time
loads of photos afters, I walked down Via Calmaggiore arriving
walking through the streets, checking the fine
at the grandious Duomo, built in the XI century upon an area
Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore and finally visit
occupied since before the Romans as temple and sacred place. The
the Pescheria and the lovely buildings around.
neoclassic design is a XIX project displaying some Ionic columns
Definitely, Treviso deserves a visit!
and it holds some interesting artwork as a nice Tiziano`s painting. The next visit would be at San Nicolo church, a massive building
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Tiny streets evoking timeless feelings What a beautiful city
A slowly rithm of life The gate Santi Quaranta showing the Venice Republic shield
VENETO. EXPLORING AND FALLING IN LOVE.
Sublime view of the imponent Monte Pasubio, scene of important battles during the WWI