This northeastern Italian city has Gothic buildings, a respected October film festival, and regional food influenced by Italian, Austrian and Slavic cuisines.
In Pordenone, you'll walk under medieval arcades along Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, past 14th-century frescoes and through squares where Renaissance merchants once traded. This city in northeastern Italy's Friuli-Venezia Giulia region has preserved its Gothic Communal Palace, while St. Mark's Cathedral's 72-meter bell tower rises above the rooftops. Each September, writers and readers gather here for the Pordenonelegge book festival, while the Noncello River flows quietly past stone bridges and riverside parks.
Walking Through Corso Vittorio Emanuele II
Walk beneath the continuous arcades of Pordenone's main street, where you'll stay dry during rain and cool in summer heat. Look up to see 15th-century frescoes on palace walls - many depict scenes from daily life and biblical stories. The Gothic Communal Palace, dating from 1291-1395, commands attention with its red brick facade and clock tower, painted by local artist Pomponio Amalteo. Take your time exploring the corso's cafes and independent shops, which stay open from morning until early evening.
Museums in Historic Buildings
Step into Palazzo Ricchieri, a 13th-century mansion that now holds the Civic Art Museum, where you can see works by local Renaissance painters. The PAFF! in Villa Galvani exhibits comic art from across Europe and beyond, open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 8 PM. Visit the Archaeological Museum in the Torre castle to examine Roman coins, tools, and pottery found in the region. Most museums offer guided tours in Italian and English with advance booking.
Cultural Events Throughout the Year
During the Pordenonelegge book festival in September, you can attend readings and discussions with authors in palaces and piazzas across the city center. The Days of Silent Cinema brings rare film screenings to historic theaters, while the Pordenone Blues Festival fills city parks with music every July. Check the city's cultural calendar when planning your visit, as many events include free public performances.
Along the Noncello River
Cross the Adam and Eve Bridge to reach the Flu Park, where paths wind along the riverbank. From June to September, you can join guided boat tours or rent canoes at the riverside dock. Oak and willow trees line the walking and cycling paths that connect the city center to outlying neighborhoods. Look for herons and kingfishers near the water's edge, especially during morning hours.
Local Wine and Cuisine
Visit wine bars in the city center to taste Friulano and Ribolla wines from nearby vineyards. Try frico, a crispy pie made from aged Montasio cheese and potatoes, often served with polenta. The prosciutto from nearby San Daniele, aged for at least 13 months, appears on most restaurant menus. Many bars along Corso Vittorio Emanuele II serve wine with local cheese and cured meats during aperitivo time, typically from 6 PM to 8 PM.
