L'Italo-Americano

ALL AROUND ITALY TRAVEL TIPS DESTINATIONS ACTIVITIES THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2024 www.italoamericano.org 24 L'Italo-Americano T he city of Trevi- so, in the region of Veneto, is often overshadowed by n e a r b y V e n i c e , yet, it holds a distinct charm and elegance that makes it a worthwhile destination. It is known for its elegant canals, historic buildings, and status as the heart of the Prosecco- producing region, as well as for its celebrated culinary tra- dition. Originally a Roman settle- ment known as Tarvisium, it became a prosperous trading hub due to its strategic loca- t i o n a l o n g t h e S i l e a n d Cagnan rivers. Over the cen- turies, Treviso came under various rulers, including the L o m b a r d s , t h e V e n e t i a n Republic, and later the Aus- trians, each of whom left a clear mark on its architecture and culture.The Venetian influence, however, is per- h a p s t h e m o s t e n d u r i n g : under Venetian rule, Treviso's e c o n o m y t h r i v e d , a n d i t s infrastructure was improved with canals, bridges, and for- tifications. In the 20th centu- ry, the city suffered signifi- cant damage during World War II, but extensive restora- tion efforts preserved much of its architectural heritage. Today, just like in the past, T r e v i s o i s a c i t y o f g e n t l e canals, elegant piazzas, and well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture. Its heart lays in Piazza dei Sig- nori, a lively square framed by historic buildings like the Palazzo dei Trecento, a 13th-century Gothic palace, and the Loggia dei Cava- lieri, a 14th-century meeting place for the city's élite. The square is a favorite gathering spot, where locals and visitors mingle with the city's own history and beauty all around. Here, Treviso's past and pre- sent come together in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. We mentioned how Trevi- so is, often, overshadowed by Venice because of its proximi- ty to the Serenissima, but it is undeniable that the two cities do have some common traits. Just like its more famous neighbor, for instance, Trevi- so has picturesque canals and waterways, though on a more intimate and serene scale. One of the most beautiful is the Canale dei Buranelli, named after fishermen from t h e i s l a n d o f B u r a n o w h o once frequented it: colorful b u i l d i n g s l i n e t h e c a n a l ' s b a n k s , a n d s m a l l b r i d g e s a r c h g r a c e f u l l y o v e r t h e water, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll to enjoy the city's quiet beauty. The local cathedral, also known as the Duomo, dates back to the 6th century: it is a harmonious blend of Neo- classical and Romanesque styles, and holds impressive artworks within its walls, including Titian's Annun- ciation and a 12th-century crypt. Another architectural gem is the Church of San N i c o l ò , a 1 4 t h - c e n t u r y Dominican church marked by its Gothic architecture and striking bell tower; the interi- or is adorned with beautiful frescoes, among which is a unique cycle by Tommaso da Modena. Curiously, this pictorial cycle is also known for including one of the earli- est depictions of people wear- ing glasses, an unusual detail that has drawn the interest of art historians. For those interested in diving deeper into local histo- ry, the Museo Civico Luigi Bailo presents a well-curat- ed collection of Venetian and Renaissance masterpieces. Named after Luigi Bailo, a 19th-century historian and archaeologist instrumental in preserving Treviso's heritage, the museum offers insight into the city's artistic and cul- tural evolution. As beautiful and histori- cally rich as Treviso is, its connection to Prosecco remains, perhaps, one of its most famous attributes. The city lies at the gateway to the Prosecco Hills, a UNESCO W o r l d H e r i t a g e S i t e t h a t s t r e t c h e s b e t w e e n Conegliano and Valdobbi- adene. The area, dotted with r o l l i n g v i n e y a r d s a n d medieval villages, is where t h e w o r l d - r e n o w n e d sparkling wine is produced, p r i m a r i l y f r o m t h e G l e r a grape. As we know, Prosecco gained international fame for its light, fruity flavor, which makes it an ideal drink for celebrations and gatherings. Visitors to Treviso can eas- ily explore the Prosecco Road (Strada del Prosecco), a route through the hills and vineyards where wineries open their doors for tastings and tours. Here, travelers can learn about the production process, from the cultivation of the Glera grape to the tra- ditional methods of making sparkling wine. The terroir, climate, and passion of local vintners all contribute to the distinctive taste of Prosecco, which varies subtly depend- i n g o n t h e v i n e y a r d a n d winemaking style. Beyond Prosecco, Treviso has a thriving culinary scene: many dishes in Trevi- so pair perfectly with the f a m o u s s p a r k l i n g w i n e , i n c l u d i n g r a d i c c h i o , a slightly bitter red chicory that's grilled, roasted, or tossed into risotto. Another local favorite is soppressa, a c u r e d s a u s a g e o f t e n enjoyed as an appetizer with Prosecco. Treviso is also cele- brated as the birthplace of an icon, tiramisù: while several regions claim this creation, many believe it originated in the 1960s at Treviso's own Ristorante Le Beccherie. The locals, known as Trevigiani, are known for their warmth and pride in their hometown. I t ' s c o m m o n t o s e e t h e m enjoying a leisurely afternoon at a café or along the river- b a n k s , a n d t h e y ' r e o f t e n happy to share a recommen- dation or chat with visitors, adding to the welcoming feel that makes Treviso so special. If you are thinking of visit- ing, you may find it handy to know that various interesting festivals take place through- out the year. The Festa di San Liberale honors the c i t y ' s p a t r o n s a i n t , w h i l e the Festa del Radicchio Rosso is dedicated to Trevi- so's famous vegetable. Dur- ing the Prosecco Festival in nearby Valdobbiadene, visitors can join tastings and celebrate the harvest season. Each of these events offers a genuine taste of Treviso's local flavor, traditions, and warm hospitality. But if it's true that the town itself offers plenty to see and do, it also serves as an excellent base for explor- ing the surrounding Veneto region. As said, the famed Prosecco Hills are just a short drive away, offering vineyard tours and tastings in a stunning natural setting. Venice is also less than an hour away by train, allowing visitors to experience the m a g i c o f L a S e r e n i s s i m a w h i l e s t a y i n g i n a m o r e peaceful, authentic location. Another beautiful spot near- by is Asolo, known as the "City of a Hundred Horizons" for its breathtaking views of t h e V e n e t o c o u n t r y s i d e . Asolo has a long history as a retreat for poets, artists, and writers, including the English poet Robert Browning and the Italian actress Eleonora D u s e . W i t h i t s m e d i e v a l walls, charming streets, and inspiring landscapes, Asolo is a little jewel to discover. FRANCESCA BEZZONE Beyond Venice: discovering the art and history of Treviso Treviso, the Sile river (Photo: Yevhenii Tryfonov/Dreamstime) and, bottom left, the Prosecco Hills area, of which Treviso is considered the capital (Photo: Stevanzz/Dreamstime)

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