WHAT TO SEE IN CIVIDALE: A UNESCO GEM WITH A DEVIL'S BRIDGE

​

Cividale del Friuli is a captivating town with a rich history, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Divided by the crystal-clear Natisone River, it offers stunning views, especially from the "Ponte del Diavolo" (Devil's Bridge). From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the town, its surrounding Julia Alps, the light blue, almost turquoise color of the Natisone river and the iconic bridge.

​

A HISTORICAL TOWN WITH CELTIC ROOTS

​

Cividale’s origins go back to the Celts, and the prove of it is an intriguing “Ipogeo Celtico,” an underground cave that once served as both a burial site and later a Roman prison. Only visible during special guided tours.

​

JULIUS CAESAR'S LEGACY

​

In 50 B.C., Julius Caesar transformed this Celtic village into a strategic settlement, naming it "Forum Julii," which eventually gave Friuli its name. The region became a key part of the Roman Empire.

​

THE LOMBARD ERA

​

In the 6th century, the Lombards made Cividale the first Lombard Duchy in Italy. Their influence remains visible, with stunning treasures such as the "Tempietto Longobardo," a palatine chapel featuring exquisite Oriental-style plasterwork and colorful frescoes. It's inside the Monastery Santa Maria in Valle and I will be happy to show it to you. 

​

THE PATRIARCHS OF AQUILEIA ERA ​

From the eighth century to the mid-thirteenth century, Cividale was the seat of the Patriarchs of Aquileia. At that time, Cividale was the capital of Friuli. Beautiful religious artworks from the late Lombard period, such as the altar of Ratchis, a duke who became a king, and the stunning eighth-century baptismal font of Patriarch Callisto, can be admired in the Christian Museum. 

 

MUSEUMS AND HISTORICAL ARTIFACTS

​

Cividale is also home to fascinating museums, such as the already mentioned Santa Maria in Valley Monastery, the Christian Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, where you can admire treasures from the Lombard and Roman periods, including the tomb of a Lombard Duke.

​

BOOK A GUIDED TOUR IN CIVIDALE

​

To discover Cividale’s hidden treasures, contact me for a guided tour. I’ll be happy to share its fascinating history with you. Click the button for more details and rates.