The borgo of Valvasone (Pordenone) has conserved its medieval appearance with elegant lanes and ancient residences decorated with porticoes.
The imposing castle, which dominates the square and houses late Gothic frescoes, is the heart of the village. Built in the 13th century on pre-existing structures from late antiquity, the castle belonged to the ancient noble house of Valvasone whose name, “wolf farm” in old German, appears in the coat of arms. Damaged and renovated several times, it looks today like a Renaissance palace. Over the centuries it has hosted a range of important figures including Pope Gregory XII in 1409, Pope Pius VI in 1782 and Napoleon Bonaparte in March 1797. Thanks to recent restorations it is possible to admire a precious 18th century theatre, one of the smallest in Italy; a room with a rare cycle of profane frescoes from the late 14th century; and the piano nobile which comprises several reception rooms, the noble chapel and the ancient 17th century hearth.
The ancient Cathedral of the Most Holy Body of Christ in the village owes its name to the relic of the miracle of the Sacred Tablecloth it houses. In addition, there is a monumental organ, the only example in Italy of 16th century Venetian organ building, embellished by a stupendous artistic frame by Pordenone and Pomponio Amalteo.
The Church of Saints Pietro, Paolo and Antony the Abbot, once a "hospital" that provided refuge for pilgrims and travellers, preserves valuable 16th century frescoes and a 17th century portative organ. Also fascinating is the 15th century cloister in the former Serviti Convent, which has been partly rebuilt on the ancient foundations.
Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission
Piazza Duca degli Abruzzi 3 — 34132 Trieste
Phone: +39 040 3720142
Email: filmcommission@promoturismo.fvg.it
