Artegna

Artegna has ancient origins: this is demonstrated by the archaeological finds, some of which date back to pre-Roman and Roman times. On the hill of San Martino there was a fortified settlement possibly used by Goths, Byzantines and Lombards.

As the historian Paolo Diacono reminds us, besieged in 611 AD by the Avars, the Lombards found refuge in their fortresses, including the castrum of Artegna. The town shared the fate of Friuli, subjected to various dominations and, in 1866, it became part of unified Italy. In 1976, Artegna was devasted by a terrible earthquake.

Artegna preserves the memory of the past in its historic center, with the characteristic Via Villa that follows an ancient path at the foot of the Colle di San Martino. Piazza Marnico is home to the local government offices and important monuments devoted to Friulian women and the heroes of Julia.

The area is enriched by the historic places of worship of the Church of San Martino and the Parish Church of Santa Maria Nascente. Climbing to the Hill of San Martino, you can admire a unique and impressive view of the Savorgnan Castle, a recently restored fortification that now houses a refreshment stand and exhibitions telling the history of the area.

The Artegna area, in the Campo di Osoppo-Gemona and at the foot of the pre-Alpine hills, is in a particularly strategic position of beautiful landscapes. The plain between Artegna and Buja, known as Palûts, is a traditional agricultural landscape of hedges, canals and wooded areas.

Today, the area offers a rich biodiversity with wetlands, unusual flora and fauna, ideal for nature explorations. There are numerous walking and cycle paths throughout the area, offering picturesque and relaxing routes to enjoy.

In the midst of the countryside, there are small wash houses, clay quarries and waterways, testifying to the ancient interaction between man and nature.