Cison di Valmarino

Cison di Valmarino, a captivating village in the Veneto region of Italy, is a place where history feels alive. Recognized as one of "I Borghi più belli d'Italia" (Italy's most beautiful villages) and awarded the Orange Flag for tourism and environmental quality, it offers a serene escape into a landscape of rolling Prosecco hills and the imposing Treviso Prealps.

Alleyways of stone wind through a historic center that recounts its medieval past, leading to grand palaces and the formidable CastelBrando, one of Europe's largest and oldest castles, which stands sentinel over the town. Beyond its architectural beauty, Cison di Valmarino is a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Prosecco Hills, inviting exploration through vineyards, ancient mills, and tranquil woods.

Whether you seek cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, or simply a taste of authentic Venetian life away from the crowds, Cison di Valmarino presents a unique blend of artistic treasures, historical significance, and natural splendor.

## From Prehistory to Feudal Power Cison di Valmarino's roots stretch far beyond its medieval appearance. Archaeological evidence suggests human presence in the Valmareno area dates back to the Bronze Age and Roman antiquity, with discoveries of Paleolithic and Mesolithic artifacts in nearby locations. The Roman road Via Claudia Augusta, connecting Germany to Altino, once passed through this strategic territory.

During the early Middle Ages, particularly amidst the Hungarian invasions, a fortification was established, laying the groundwork for what would become CastelBrando. By 926, it served as the seat of a small feudal territory, changing hands among various lords.

## The Brandolini Dynasty and Venetian Influence The village truly flourished under the Brandolini family. In 1436, the Republic of Venice, known as the Serenissima, bestowed the county of Valmareno, including CastelBrando, upon Brandolino IV Brandolini and Gattamelata, two renowned mercenary captains. Gattamelata later transferred his full share to Brandolino. The Brandolini counts governed Valmareno for an impressive 361 years, until 1797, when Napoleon's arrival brought an end to the Venetian Republic. This long period of Brandolini rule transformed Cison into an exemplary self-contained world, economically, administratively, socially, and culturally.

## From Austrian Rule to Italian Unification Following the fall of the Serenissima, Cison di Valmarino, like the rest of Veneto, experienced shifts between French and Austrian control. It eventually became part of the Austrian Lombardy-Venetia Kingdom. In 1866, with the Third Italian War of Independence, Veneto was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy.

## Modern Recognition Today, Cison di Valmarino proudly carries the distinction of being one of "I Borghi più belli d'Italia" and holds the Orange Flag tourism and environmental quality mark from the Italian Touring Club, a testament to its preserved charm and enduring heritage. The village continues to celebrate its history and traditions through various events, drawing visitors from across Italy and beyond.

Dominating the village from a rocky outcrop is CastelBrando, a majestic castle with over 2000 years of history. Now a luxury hotel and conference center, it offers guided tours and several museum spaces, showcasing collections of weapons, period clothing, carriages, and insights into court life.

In the heart of the historic center, Piazza Roma is flanked by the late Baroque Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta and San Giovanni Battista, notable for its two facades and 19th-century sculptures by Marco Casagrande. Also in the square are the Loggia theater and the unique Vintage Radio Museum.

For nature lovers, the Via dell'Acqua (Path of Water) begins in the town center and follows the Rujo river, revealing historic mills and industrial archaeology. This path can lead to the poignant Bosco delle Penne Mozze (Wood of Broken Feathers), a memorial to fallen Alpine soldiers.

Another scenic route is the Strada dei 100 Giorni (Road of 100 Days), a technically challenging road with five hairpin bends in tunnels, leading to the San Boldo Pass, offering grand views. Do not overlook the nearby hamlet of Rolle, a UNESCO heritage site surrounded by vineyards and recognized as Italy's first FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano) village.

The ideal time to visit Cison di Valmarino for comfortable weather and outdoor activities is from May to October, with spring and autumn being particularly recommended for their pleasant temperatures and vivid scenery. The warm season extends from early June to early September, with July being the warmest month, averaging 79°F (26°C) highs. For those interested in cultural events, August is especially lively due to the renowned 'Artigianato Vivo' craft fair, though it can also be more crowded. The clearer skies are typically experienced from late June to late September.

Cison di Valmarino is located in the province of Treviso, approximately 43 kilometers from the city of Treviso and 90 kilometers northwest of Venice. The nearest train stations are in Conegliano and Vittorio Veneto, with bus services connecting to the town. By car, it's accessible via the SS13 and local roads that wind through the Prosecco Hills. For parking, there are designated areas, including one for general visitors at the base of the hill leading to CastelBrando.

While exploring, consider indulging in local culinary specialties. The traditional meat dish, Spiedo Trevigiano, slow-cooked for over seven hours, is a dish to experience, often served with creamy polenta. Do not forget to sample the Prosecco Superiore Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG wine from the numerous local cellars and try buzholà, traditional round biscuits.