Cividale
is a charming town that was founded by Julius Caesar in
50 BC…..the town is filled with medieval monuments.
I like to stroll around the ancient center as it is very
well preserved (having survived a few earthquakes). The
town is set amid hills above the Natisone River.
I like to start my stroll at the Ponte del Diavolo
(Devil’s Bridge — 14th century) in
the center of town. From here, I head to the 15th
century duomo which has a combination of Renaissance
and Gothic features. Make sure you check out the silver
altarpiece which dates to the 12th century.
The Museo Christiano has the 8th century
Altar of Ratchis with carved marble scenes
of the life of Christ and the octagonal 8th century
Baptistry of Callisto with Byzantine fragments.
There are also Byzantine frescoes in the oratory. The
Museo Archeological Nazionale is located
in a Palladian designed palazzo and has pre-Roman, Roman
and Lombard art, jewelry and artifacts. The town was greatly
influenced by the Lombards and that is very evident in
this town. The museum is very good too (check it out).
The Tempietto Lombardo (Oratorio di Santa Maria
in Valle) is a must see…..this 8th century
(Lombard) building has frescoes, mosaics, friezes and
carved stucco. I enjoy this town.