Discover things to do in Pianezze (VI): the church of San Zeno, the buso della miniera, the Sandra cherry festival. Want to know more? First of all…
Where is Pianezze?
The municipality of Pianezze borders to the north and east with Marostica, to the south and west with Colceresa.
The church of San Zeno
Located in Piazza IV Novembre, 4, the parish of Pianezze rises on the top of a grassy hill dotted with olive trees, reachable via a long staircase framed by a corridor of tall and dark cypresses.
The façade of the neoclassical place of worship is marked by four pilasters that support the architrave, the frieze, and the pediment crowned by three statues. Accessible via a massive wooden door surmounted by a triangular tympanum above which stands a blind oculus, the parish is flanked by a powerful square-based bell tower surmounted by the belfry with four large single-lancet windows.
Completing the vertical development of the structure is an elaborate bulbous metal spire resting on an octagonal drum.
One of the most significant architectural and cultural landmarks of the municipality, the church offers a suggestive view of the town center and the gentle slopes of the boundless rural panorama of Pianezze.
Il buso della miniera
If you are wondering what to do in Pianezze and are passionate about hiking, the buso della miniera is one of the most fascinating natural destinations in the Vicenza area.
To reach the serene location immersed among lively wooded slopes, you can leave your car in the parking lot of the soccer field near the church of San Zeno*. Proceed along Via Roma in a southeast direction for 350 meters, then turn left onto Via Sandri and continue for 750 meters crossing the winding asphalt road that winds uphill among hills dotted with vineyards, orchards, and pale olive trees with twisted branches and silvery canopies.
On your left, at a hairpin bend, you will find a clearing with a table, two wooden benches, and an informative panel illustrating the route leading to the historical site.
Take the dirt path that enters the enchanting and adventurous scenery of the ancient abandoned mine, where steep heights, wooden terraces, and wide hollows are crossed by paved and dirt paths, covered in the autumn months with a thick layer of golden leaves.
*Alternatively, to shorten the route, you can park at the Sports field in Via Sandri, 12, proceed along Via Sandri north for 650 meters until you find the information sign and the beginning of the tree-lined path on your left.
The Sandra cherry festival
What makes the Sandra cherry festival one of the most anticipated and significant events in the community of Pianezze is the desire to promote typical local products considered excellent for their taste and wholesomeness, qualities of excellence and uniqueness guaranteed by the fertility of the soil and the mildness of the climate.
The event celebrates the balance between agricultural activity and the slow rhythm of nature which every spring releases the pale pink hues of the flourishing cherry trees, whose splendor and longevity are linked to the ancient belief that this plant symbolizes the virtues of patience and inner harmony.
The 2022 edition of the Sandra cherry took place on the weekend of May 20 and 21, featuring engaging musical performances, dance evenings, quiet outdoor walks, and food and wine stands where the Sandra cherry is naturally the undisputed star.
Certified P.G.I. (Protected Geographical Indication) product, the exquisite native fruit similar to a sweet fire-red sphere is the pride and distinguishing feature of this hardworking and peaceful community.
If you are wondering what to do in Pianezze and want to explore the pleasant and sunny hilly landscape that stretches in the heart of the province of Vicenza about 10 km from Bassano del Grappa, a visit to this small but unforgettable village steeped in culture, traditions, and inimitable flavors will be a memorable experience!
