Exploring the Valli del Natisone: a journey through tales, craftsmanship, and living traditions

In the Valli del Natisone, an enchanted corner of Friuli Venezia Giulia, wild nature intertwines with ancient myths and age-old traditions. Here, the magic of legends blends with the unspoiled beauty of the landscape, creating a unique experience just waiting to be lived.

To fully embrace the spirit of these places, choose to stay in an Albergo Diffuso: restored historic houses will welcome you with the warmth and simplicity typical of the local people. You can savor the authentic flavors of traditional cuisine, stroll through pristine meadows and woods, and rediscover the joy of tranquility.

Among the mist-shrouded woods and sun-kissed meadows lingers the myth of the Krivapeta, an enigmatic figure who embodies the wild and mysterious essence of these valleys. With her feet turned backwards and hair as green as the moss-covered rocks, this mythological creature is both a guide and a guardian of nature.

Legends tell of a deep bond between the Krivapeta and the land: she would grant miraculous gifts to farmers who respected the harmony of nature, such as advice on sowing or harvesting. But her wild spirit also had a darker side, filled with riddles and mysterious demands. As you walk through these places, it’s easy to imagine her watchful eyes among the trees — a living memory of ancestral traditions.

Beyond Legends: A Living Heritage of Craftsmanship

In addition to its legends, the Valli del Natisone preserve a rich artisan heritage that reflects centuries of cultural exchange. Each handcrafted piece tells the story of this land — from Lombard influences to deeply rooted local traditions handed down through generations.

• Cividale del Friuli: The ancient Lombard goldsmithing tradition lives on in exquisite jewelry that blends technical mastery with symbolic meaning. Vibrant ceramics add a contemporary flair to this timeless art form.
• Moimacco and San Pietro al Natisone: Here, master blacksmiths and bronze workers turn raw materials into functional and decorative masterpieces, combining durability with artistic expression.
• Torreano and San Pietro: Sculptors transform pietra piasentina — a local stone — into storytelling canvases. Their chisels reveal scenes of heroes, love, and battles, carving identity into every line and curve.

Don’t miss the chance to step into artisan workshops and studios, where the creative process comes to life before your eyes, and every gesture holds generations of knowledge.

In the Valli del Natisone, folklore isn’t just remembered — it’s lived. Throughout the year, villages come alive with vibrant festivals that celebrate age-old customs, music, and costumes, offering visitors an authentic taste of local culture.

• Pust – The Carnival of the Valli del Natisone: This winter celebration transforms the valleys into a swirl of color, rhythm, and revelry. Traditional masked figures like the Blumari of Montefosca race through the streets to the sound of accordions and folk songs, bringing ancient rituals back to life.

• Kries Sv. Ivana – The Bonfire of Saint John: Held during the summer solstice, this mystical festival lights up the hilltops with towering bonfires. Locals gather for songs, traditional games, and rituals like egg-white divination — connecting with the spiritual rhythms of nature and the past.

• Rožinca: Celebrated in Cras and Montemaggiore, this religious and folkloric event centers around the blessing of floral bouquets believed to protect homes from storms. The celebration includes processions, music, and local storytelling — where faith, tradition, and community intertwine.

These events aren’t just spectacles — they’re moments where guests become part of something larger. Whether dancing with villagers, listening to old legends, or tasting festival delicacies, you’ll find yourself immersed in a living heritage that continues to beat strong in the heart of the Valli del Natisone.

The Natisone Valleys are not just a destination — they are an experience that takes you far from the rush of everyday life. Whether you’re eager to explore nature, immerse yourself in ancient legends, or discover the creativity of local artisans, here you’ll find a place where time slows down and every moment becomes meaningful.

Don’t wait. The Valli del Natisone await you with their unique charm, ready to gift you unforgettable emotions. Book your adventure and let yourself be captivated by the magic of this timeless land.