Veneto — Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Treviso, Italy

A mere 30 kilometers (about 19 miles) north of Venice lies the alluring town of Treviso, Italy. Like the majority of the Italian countryside in which it is nestled, this jewel of a city is graced with beauty, serenity, and a healthy dose of old-world charm. Set along the banks of the Sile River, Treviso is a wonderful stop for any Italian vacation. A easy daytrip from your Venice apartments or hotels visitors will find Its numerous historical sites provide many points of interest, and the stunning architecture that can be found alongside its streets is not to be missed. Visitors will be thrilled with the culture that Treviso exudes, and the diverse sights around town will provide hours of entertainment. While Treviso is home to several sports teams ranging from football to rugby and even volleyball, the main draw to this city comes from the buildings that have been standing here for centuries, as well as the art that resides inside these buildings.

Out of all the wonderful attractions in Treviso, churches play a prominent part. The church of San Francesco (built in the 1200s), is a testament to the history of this region. Several frescoes can be found in this church, done by such artists as Tommaso de Modena. Also noteworthy is the tomb of Pietro Alighieri, the son of Dante. The church of San Nicolo also houses frescoes from Tommaso de Modena. At this church, visitors can marvel at the most ancient depiction in glass in Europe: a picture of St. Christopher which can be found on the east side of the church. Dedicated to St. Peter, the Cathedral in Treviso now includes seven domes. When it was first built in the late Roman era, the building was much smaller; the original gate remains, however. The Loggia dei Cavalieri, with its Romanesque and Byzantine influences, was once a meeting place for the upper class. The Palazzo dei Trecento (built in the 13th and 14th centuries) and the Piazza Rinaldi–the site of three palaces built by the Rinaldi family beginning in the 12th century–offer a couple more options for travelers to see.

Clearly, with so much to see and do, this is an exciting city to visit when staying in apartmens in Venice. Many more buildings of significance can be found along its streets, which means visitors can expect to spend quite a bit of time wandering through town and marveling at the history that permeates the city. Fall captive to the magical spell cast by Treviso, and enjoy all it has to offer.

Filed Under: featured, Italy, Treviso, Veneto

Vittorio Veneto, Italy

Set in the charming foothills of northeastern Italy, the town of Vittorio Veneto is filled with history, culture and Old World Italian charm. Located just a short drive north of the famed city of Venice, Vittorio Veneto is a hidden gem that offers everything from stunning architecture to world-class authentic Italian restaurants. Unique shops and charming cafes abound on its streets. Visitors to Vittorio Veneto will fall in love with the town’s ambient blend of culture, history and natural beauty. Vittorio Veneto makes for a great side trip when staying in a Venice apartments or hotels.

Vittorio Veneto is located just north of Venice in the rolling hills of northeast Italy. The town offers a refreshing break from the bustle of more touristy cities like Venice and Rome and instead showcases the beauty of rural Italy. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Italy for the first time, you’re sure to enjoy Vittorio Veneto.

One of the top sites in Vittorio Veneto is Piazza Flaminio, the town’s central square. Piazza Flaminio shows off the town’s breathtaking architecture and history. The piazza holds Loggia di Seravalle, the old town hall which dates back to 1462. This building is home to the fascinating Museo del Cenedese, a museum with a plethora of archeological and artwork exhibits.

Another great attraction in Vittorio Veneto is the Santa Giustina, a historic and beautiful church that was built in the 14th century. Filled with history and ambience, the church holds the tomb of Rizzardo IV de Camino. Though small, Santa Giustina is a must-see landmark in Vittorio Veneto.

Santa Maria Nuova is another picturesque church worth seeing in the town. Dating back to 1776, Santa Maria Nuova is renowned for its richly decorated interior and masterful artwork. A true gem, this church should definitely be seen by anyone visiting the town of Vittorio Veneto.

Elsewhere in the town of Vittorio Veneto, before heading back to your apartments in Venice, visitors will find great restaurants, charming boutiques and shops and a wealth of historic buildings, especially in the historic core of the town.

With so many great sites and things to do, a trip to the town of Vittorio Veneto is a great break from the bustle and touristy feel of Venice. Those seeking a sample of what life is really like in northeastern Italy should definitely pay a visit to this beautiful and historic town.

Filed Under: Europe, featured, Italy, Veneto, Venice, Vittorio

Verona, Italy

The historical city of Verona, Italy is famed as the setting for the classic Shakespearean love story, Romeo and Juliet, but Verona has many other delights waiting to be discovered.

Nestled between the cities of Milan and Venice in the region of Veneto, Verona is one of the most visited places in Italy. Enthusiasts of European history will be enchanted with the many UNESCO World Heritage sites that chronicle the city's fascinating and tumultuous history. Throughout the last millennia, Verona has been the possession of several nations. Included among them are the original Celtic settlers, followed by the Romans who claimed the city as a colony in 89 AD, the nation of Austria, and the Visigoths, under the rule of King Theodoric the Great, also famed for defeating Attila the Hun. Today, Verona is the capital of the province of Verona.

When visiting Verona, there are a number of noteworthy sites that merit exploring, such as the Lamberti Tower. Construction of this majestic tower began in the 12th century. Over the years, it has gone through numerous additions, with a completed height of just under 276 feet. The view from this lofty vantage point offers visitors a fantastic view that overlooks the entire city. Lamberti Tower is located off the Piazza delle Erbe, in the heart of Verona's historic city center.

After enjoying the stunning view from atop Lamberti Tower, a short stroll to the Piazza delle Erbe offers a great combination of shopping and sightseeing. The city center of Verona is nestled in the midst of many beautiful medieval buildings and majestic palaces. In the center of the Piazza is a beautiful Roman fountain, and surrounding the Piazza are souvenir shops and cafes that offer a delightful place to shop for mementos or relax and enjoy a cappuccino.

The most visited site in Verona is Juliet's House, which contains what is believed to be the actual balcony of Romeo and Juliet fame. The house, located off Via Capello, is a Gothic style home built in the 13th century.

The best known site in Verona is the Arena, an amphitheater dating back to the 1st century BC. Today, the Arena is used for much gentler pursuits than the gladiatorial matches held during the era of its construction. The Arena is the second largest amphitheater in the world, seating up to 25,000 people, and is the site of the annual summer-long opera festival.

Filed Under: Europe, featured, Italy, Veneto, Verona

Torcello, Italy

Although Torcello is now a small community of about 50-100 inhabitants in the lagoon of Venice, during the Middle Ages it had a population of about 10,000 and was an important political and trading center. After the downfall of Rome, Venetians fled from the barbarian invasions to take refuge and settle on Torcello. By 638 AD, Torcello became the bishop’s of Altino’s see for more than a thousand years, and the relics of Saint Heliodorus were brought to the island. Torcello was an outpost of the Byzantine Empire and benefited from cultural and trading ties with the eastern capital. After the 12th century, Torcello’s salt marshes became swampy, making trade navigation impossible so most of the population left for other islands or Venice. It is the oldest continuously populated area in Venice and its environs.

Torcello is a refreshing change of pace from crowded Venice and tourists may visit it by ferry boat or water taxi. The walk from the boat to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta takes about 15 minutes and the cathedral is filled with lovely 11th and 12th Century Byzantine art. It is the oldest building in the surrounding area, being founded in 639 AD. The cathedral holds mass on Sundays in the summer, plus some religious festivals and weddings. Its walls are covered with a mosaics of the Last Judgment, Christ and the Apostles and the Virgin and Child. The altar dates to its 7th century construction. The relics of St. Heliodorus are also in this cathedral. Taking the gentle ramp to the campanile of the basillica affords a stunning view of the outlines of Venice on the horizon. Another interesting church is the Church of Santa Fosca with three apses and a lovely sculpture on the altar from the 15th Century.

Torcello’s museum is housed in two 14th Century palaces. One known as the Palazzo del Consiglio, was the former seat of the communal government.

The Throne of Attila is a white stone seat that is a perfect spot for a rest and photo right next to the Santa Fosca.It is presumed to have been used by judges or bishops or perhaps even Attila the Hun himself. The legend is that those who sit on the stone will be married within a year.

Torcello is about three feet above sea level and it is considered a humid subtropical climate. Temperatures in July, the hottest month, average about 81.3 degrees F. January is the coldest month at about 32 degrees F.

Filed Under: Burano, Europe, featured, Italy, Murano, Torcello

Burano, Italy

Burano, Italy, is a tiny island in the northernmost area of the Venetian Lagoon. Burano is a 40 minute ride from Venice via “vaporetti,” or Venetian motorboat. In Burano, visitors will delight in the sights, tastes and sounds of this quaint fishing village laced with a colorful history.

Visitors approaching Burano are soon met with its most endearing attraction: colorfully painted buildings in a myriad of blues, yellows, reds and pinks. Although the lively homes look like a hodgepodge of colors, residents must obtain permission from the government before certain colors can be used in certain lots. The custom of painting homes in different hues dates back to when fishermen used different colors to distinguish their homes. This practice enabled them to quickly identify their homes from a distance or during darkness or bad weather.

The town’s main plaza, Piazza Galuppi, is named in honor of Italian composer Baldassarre Galuppi who was born in Burano around 1706.

Located in the Piazza Galuppi, the Museo Del Merletto (Burano Lace Museum) offers visitors an overview of Burano’s ancient art of lace making. Recently restored, the museum serves both as a tribute to the history of lace making and an effort to preserve and revive lace making skills. Visitors can view over 150 lace samples, numerous exhibits, and lace maestros demonstrating their intricate designs.

Across the piazza from the museum, visitors can explore Burano’s own version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The leaning campanile is part of the Church of San Martino Vescovo. Inside this 16th century church, visitors will find countless historical and artistic treasures including the “Crucifixion” by Giambattista Tiepolo.

Most visitors agree that simply wondering about the narrow cobblestone streets of Burano is an adventure itself. Friendly locals, garden courtyards and a plethora of photo opportunities make visiting Burano a worthwhile endeavor.

Another motive for visiting the island of Burano is the exquisite seafood that can be found there. Cafes, trattorias, ristorantes, osterias and bakeries abound in Burano. Make sure to try the citrus-flavored Burranelli cookies.

For clear skies and mild weather, spring and autumn are the best times to visit. Visitors choosing to visit during summer will find high concentrations of tourists and heat. Winters can be cold and damp, but the temperature rarely falls below freezing.

No matter what time of the year, visitors to Burano, Italy, can enjoy the charming, tranquil pace of this picturesque island that time seems to have overlooked.

Filed Under: Burano, Europe, featured, Italy, Veneto

Murano, Italy

Many people don’t realize “Murano” refers to a cluster of islands rather than a specific brand of glass. Located barely a mile north of Venice and sharing its Lagoon and warm, humid climate, Murano is a perfect day trip for anyone interested in glass production.

Glass making came to Murano in the late 13th century when Venice sent its glassmakers into exile, seeking to export the fire hazard of constantly burning furnaces. The loss was Venice’s, for in Murano these craftsmen developed techniques no one else could match, including the manufacture of milk glass, enameled glass, millefiori and glass laced with gold. Murano soon became the glass capital of the known world and master craftsmen earned the privileges of nobility. Today’s Murano is still best known for its glass, and glass is the reason most tourists visit.

While accommodations are available on Murano, most visitors stay in Venice and arrive by ferry. Wise travelers will resist offers of a free boat ride to Murano, for these are designed to drag tourists into showrooms and keep them there until a sale is made. The public ferry is inexpensive and far preferable. Once landed, the way to sightsee is on foot, for Murano measures barely a mile from end to end.

There are three ways to see and enjoy Murano’s glass. Shops line the island, offering everything from fun, inexpensive beads and souvenirs to expensive collectible pieces. Fraudulent glass does work its way in, so look for the authenticating “Vetro Murano Artistico” decal in the shop window.

There are also glass factories that give short tours and demonstrations. Mornings are the time to attend these, for activity slows during lunch and, depending on the mood and the heat of the day, may never quite revive. The most skilled glass masters do not give demonstrations for fear of revealing their secrets, but this won’t spoil the fun in the least – seeing even “ordinary” glass blown and molded is magical.

To see the best pieces, head for the museums. In addition to the Museo Vetraio, the Glass Museum, there’s the Modern and Contemporary Museum, whose works reflect more recent styles and methods.

Of architectural interest are the Basilica dei Santa Maria e San Donato with it’s flourish of Byzantine mosaic and the Campo Santo Stefano’s impressive 19th century clock tower.

Murano is a quiet town after sunset, with only one restaurant remaining open, so you can easily be back in Venice in time for dinner and a relaxed evening.

Filed Under: Europe, featured, Italy, Murano, Veneto

Bassano del Grappa, Italy

Bassano del Grappa, renowned as the birthplace of the namesake after dinner drink, was founded as an agricultural estate in the 2nd century BC by the Roman Bassianus. The first documented evidence for the city was in 998 AD and the first mention of a castle was in 1150. Throughout the next centuries, the city was ruled by the Visconti of Milan and then the Republic of Venice. It was during this period that the city flourished as a center for wool, silk, copper, iron and ceramic industries. Napoleon spent several months here during the French Revolutionary War Battle of Bassano. The city became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1866. Originally called Bassano Veneto, the name was changed to include del Grappa in 1928. This was done to honor soldiers who were killed during the World War I battles that took place on nearby Mount Grappa, where Ernest Hemmingway served as an ambulance driver and was influenced to write A Farewell to Arms.

Today, tourists can explore a treasure trove of wonders from the Upper Castle to the numerous ancient churches and the well known Ponte delgi Alpini. This covered bridge is a symbol of the city. Architect Andrea Palladio designed this wooden pontoon bridge in 1569. Although destroyed several times, it was rebuilt following World War II and is revered by Italy’s Alpine soldiers or Alpini. It is here on the bridge that you will find the Nardini Distillery’s grappa shop and tavern which hasn’t changed since 1779. Visitors will be amazed by the frescos in the 12th century Roman-Gothic Church of St. Francis and on the facade of the town hall. Guests will admire the architecture of the 14th century Church of St. John the Baptist and the Duomo Cathedral that was built in the year 1000 and renovated in 1417. Patrons of the town museum will enjoy the ancient archeological artifacts on display.

Bassano is the hometown of Renzo Rosso who founded the clothing and fashion design company Diesel. This company and the thriving ceramics industry are important sources of economic prosperity for the region that has temperatures in the mid to high twenty degrees Celsius in the summer and lows around zero degrees in the winter. Precipitation is highest in late spring and early winter. Bassano del Grappa is an excellent place from which to explore the nearby Venetian era towns, castles and villas.

Filed Under: Bassano del Grappa, Europe, featured, Italy, Veneto

Veneto, Italy

The region of Veneto can be found in the northeastern Italy, with the northernmost section bordering Switzerland. Until Napoleon’s invasion at the end of the 18th century it was an independent republic, and even today has a rich heritage and strong cultural identity. Aside from Rome, it is the most visited region of Italy, thanks to beautiful cities like Venice and Verona which have captures the heart of travelers around the world. Here are a few of the highlights and top cities to visit while in Veneto:

Venice: As the capital of the region, Venice is easily the biggest city and most popular destination as well. Located on the waters of the Grand Canal, the water that flows through the city is perhaps the biggest defining characteristic of Venice. Tour the city the way it was meant to be seen, on a gondola through the canals. Not only romantic, gondolas are lead by gondoliers, who know the history of the city and can give you one of the best tours in Venice. Don’t miss out on other sites like St. Mark’s Square or Basilica, or the famed Rialto Bridge and Market.

Verona: Coming in behind Venice as the most popular destination in Veneto is Verona, the location of Shakespeare’s brilliant play, Romeo and Juliet. Visit Juliet’s home, and stand on the balcony from which she proclaimed her love to Romeo. Visitors should also go to the Arena, an incredible Roman amphitheater with over 1,000 years of history. For the ultimate experience, try to find tickets for one of the rare opera performances held within the Arena itself. You’ll also find the the 8th century Verona Castle and the stunning 14th century Castelvecchio, a red bricked castle found along the River Aldige and today home to an art museum.

Cortina d’Ampezzo: This city in Veneto may not be as well known abroad, but it is one of the most popular resort destinations in Italy. It is famed for the skiing, but the atmosphere in the small town is also very exciting. Tourists flock to the slopes in the day and enjoy traditional meals and delicious wine at night.

Along with Venice, Verona and Cortina d’Ampezzo, there are countless other beautiful destinations within Veneto. It is one of the most historically and culturally rich regions in Italy, and travelers certainly won’t be disappointed with a vacation spent there.

Filed Under: Europe, featured, Italy, Veneto