Things to Do and See in Belluno

Belluno, the capital of the province of the same name and known as the “Gateway to the Dolomites,” is situated on high ground overlooking the river, a location that has made the city a strategic hub for trade between the Alpine valleys and major cities such as Treviso and Venice over the centuries. The city’s symbol is the Gusela del Vescovà, an extraordinary Dolomite spire in the Schiara mountain range that towers over the city. Among the narrow streets of the historic center lies Piazza del Duomo, home to the Palazzo dei Rettori, Belluno Cathedral, and the Palazzo dei Giuristi, which houses the Civic Museum and displays a collection of interesting paintings. There are numerous buildings and architectural features from different eras, such as Porta Rugo, a typical medieval structure, and the ancient Piazza del Mercato, where a Roman fort once stood in times long past. Throughout the rest of the province, there are numerous towns and villages worth visiting, starting with Feltre, a splendid walled town featuring the Alboino Castle Tower, which overlooks the entire valley. Don’t miss the “queen” of the Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo, one of Italy’s most renowned ski resorts. Not far away in the Boite Valley, other interesting tourist destinations include Cibiana and San Vito di Cadore, all of which are well-equipped with modern amenities. In the far north lies the Mountain Community of Comelico and Sappada, nestled in the picturesque natural landscapes of Valgrande, Val Sesis, and Val Visdende; while, between Belluno and the Veneto Plain, in a unique and enviable location, lies Alpe del Nevegal, an ideal place to visit at any time of year.