The village of Fagagna, in the province of Udine, offers a breathtaking panoramic view over the heart of Friuli; from here, the gaze stretches from the sea to the mountains. It is a surprising place, home to two beautiful castles, a nature reserve where storks nest, a museum dedicated to rural life, as well as charming churches, squares, and authentic alleys.

In the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, among gentle hills and ancient villages, lies Fagagna, an enchanting town known as the Land of Storks. This fascinating village stands out not only for the numerous storks that nest in its nature reserve but also for its unique traditions.

Every year, at the end of summer, the streets of Fagagna come alive with the historic Donkey Race, a folkloric event that attracts visitors from all over the region. The town is also famous for the production of the delicious Cheese of Fagagna, a dairy excellence with an authentic and unmistakable flavor. Strolling through its streets means immersing yourself in a timeless atmosphere, where history, nature, and genuine flavors blend perfectly.

The Castle of Villalta

The Castle of Villalta has withstood the test of time despite its tumultuous history. Built by the Lords of Villalta between the 10th and 12th centuries, it flourished during the 13th century but was destroyed twice, in 1310 and again in 1385.

The year 1511 was particularly disastrous for this fortress, as it was ravaged by two calamities: first, it was burned down during the Fat Thursday revolt, when local peasants stormed and looted twenty castles, and then, a month later, an earthquake struck. The subsequent reconstruction brought it to its current form.

Today, the castle stands proudly on a hilltop, displaying its original beauty with a high tower, Ghibelline-style battlements, a drawbridge, and numerous arrow slits.

Carefully restored and preserved by the Gelmi di Caporiacco counts, its current owners, the castle attracts many visitors and hosts cultural events aimed at keeping the history and traditions of Friuli alive.
The Castle of Villalta is open daily from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM and from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Places to visit in Fagagna

Among the must-see sights in Fagagna are several religious landmarks, including the medieval Church of Madonna della Tavella and the small Church of San Leonardo, dating back to the 14th century, located in the Riolo district.

In the late 19th century, Countess Cora Slocomb of Brazzà opened a lace-making school, which remained active until the 1960s. The school provided employment opportunities for the daughters of local farmers and workers, even crafting pieces for Queen Margherita of Italy.

A visit to Cjase Cocèl, the museum of rural life, is also a must. This ancient farmhouse, with parts dating back to the 17th century, has been transformed into a living museum, featuring a barnyard, stable, granary, house, mill, blacksmith’s workshop, farmland, tavern, and dairy. The museum cheered with farm animals, artisans practicing forgotten trades, and the nostalgic scents of a bygone era.

The Land of Storks

Before entering the village, you can see numerous stork nests precariously balanced on top of electrical and telephone poles. But why here? Why is Fagagna called the Land of Storks?

The answer lies in the Quadris Nature Reserve, a protected wetland area where these magnificent birds nest. Visitors may also catch a glimpse of the Northern Bald Ibis, a rare and endangered bird closely related to the stork in evolutionary terms.

The Donkey Race of Fagagna

Since 1891, the first Sunday of September has been dedicated to Fagagna’s traditional festival, held in Piazza Unità d’Italia, featuring the Donkey Race with carts and jockeys. On the second Sunday, the Palio, a competition between the four districts of the village, is accompanied by a theatrical performance written and staged by residents, complete with music, sets, and costumes. The performances are judged by a dedicated panel.

From September 1 to 12, 2021, Fagagna hosted the 131st edition of this wonderful festival. More details can be found on the official Pro Loco di Fagagna website.

Where to Eat in Fagagna

If, like me, all this exploring has made you hungry, don’t worry! Here are some great dining spots:

For a romantic dinner, I recommend San Michele Restaurant, a picturesque restaurant located at the foot of the namesake church, offering a spectacular panoramic view, especially at sunset.

If you’re looking to sample local products, Fagagna is renowned for its cheese. The Cheese of Fagagna is made exclusively from high-quality raw milk, with only the addition of salt and rennet.

These simple yet genuine ingredients are transformed with meticulous care, respecting traditional methods and avoiding industrial-scale production. For a true taste of tradition, visit the Borgo Paludo Dairy to purchase authentic Cheese of Fagagna or enjoy a delicious snack. More information is available at www.latteriaborgopaludo.it.

Nearby Places to Visit

Don’t miss the incredible village of Venzone, entirely rebuilt with its original stones after the 1976 earthquake. Also worth a visit are Colloredo di Monte Albano, with its magnificent castle, and San Daniele del Friuli, home to one of Italy’s finest prosciutto varieties.

Another fascinating destination is Spilimbergo, the city of mosaics. For an authentic experience in this region, consider visiting the Frasche, traditional and rustic taverns where you can enjoy local wines and delicacies.

Fagagna, the land of Storks, and its surroundings offer an extraordinary journey through history, nature, and culinary delights, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking authenticity and tradition.

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