What to do in Follina? Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and boasting an abbey considered a minor basilica, the municipality of Follina borders the municipalities of Borgo Valbelluna, Cison di Valmarino, Farra di Soligo, Miane and Pieve di Soligo.
Abbey of Santa Maria and nature trails
Built between the 11th and 14th centuries, the Abbey of Santa Maria is distinguished by a severe architecture with sparse decorations reflecting the characteristics of the Cistercian Gothic style.
One of the most evocative elements of the complex is the spectacular medieval cloister with arches supported by refined columns and pairs of small columns of different orders and types. In the center of the courtyard stands a fascinating fountain.
Near the center is also the Grotto of Santa Cecilia, whose nature intertwines with significant historical aspects of the territory: it takes its name from a small church that was razed to the ground by invaders during World War I, and 25 years later it was a refuge for partisans during the Resistance.
Historical notes
A human settlement already during prehistory, Follina bears witness to the passage of what is presumed to be the Via Claudia Augusta.
During the 12th century, Cistercian monks arrived in the territory, who, devoted to the Rule of Saint Benedict regarding austerity and manual labor, led to the construction of the Abbey of Santa Maria.
Over the years, Follina (and generally the Valmareno area) gradually established itself as a reference point for textile production. It is also true that the fortune of Follina came to an end in the 19th century due to a severe crisis in the wool industry.
Occupied by the Austrians during the Great War, it was liberated in October 1918.
There are also testimonies of partisan activity during the final acts of the Second World War.
Events and celebrations
Centennial Pentecost Fair of Follina
Definitely worth mentioning is the Centennial Pentecost Fair of Follina, the oldest event in the valley, during which you can refresh at the food stands, or let loose to live music, or participate in the numerous initiatives of the Pro Loco of Follina, such as the Contrade tournament or the evening dedicated to board games.
Feast of Saints Peter and Paul
The feast of Saints Peter and Paul is celebrated on June 29th in the hamlet of Valmareno in Piazza dell’Emigrante, corresponding to the splendid parish church of Saints Peter and Paul and the towering stone bell tower that dominates the historic town nestled among the majestic Belluno Prealps.
The celebration in honor of the patron saints is organized by the local pro loco and brings together thousands of participants from all over the region each year, ready to taste the local specialty of “Pit e fasoi sofegai soto al campanil” accompanied by glasses of red wine to drink in the company of friends and family, spending warm summer evenings in an atmosphere of liveliness and joy.
The Alpini festival of Praderadego
The Alpini festival takes place in the first days of August in the enchanting setting of Praderadego, a splendid mountain location known especially for the pass that connects the Belluno prealpine peaks and the lush green Treviso valley.
The event will begin as every year with the traditional flag-raising at the commemorative stone at Croda Rossa, after which you can raise your glasses and toast cheerfully with the Alpini group of Valmareno.
At the end of Holy Mass, lunch will take place during which you can enjoy tasty pasta and spit-roasted meat specialties, accompanied by top-quality wines that distinguish the gastronomic excellence of our territory, followed by dancing and live music.
For those wondering what to do in Follina, the Alpini festival of Praderadego keeps alive the memory of some decisive moments in our history, combining them with moments of joviality, carefreeness, sociability and fun, essential for looking to the future with gratitude and resolve.
