Faedis: Castles, Forest Trails and Wine

Faedis combines castles and forest trails with historic buildings in the town and a strong wine tradition. The La pedemontana orientale castle route passes through Faedis towards Canale di Grivò and includes the Castelli di Cucagna and Zucco. Other highlights include the Cascate Gemelle and trails to nearby memorial sites. Those choosing a destination based on specific outings will find a range of options here, from cultural heritage and nature trails to wine.

Castle Route and Sightseeing

The Castello di Cucagna was the centre of a powerful defensive system above Faedis. The Castello di Zucco was built in 1248 by Adalpretto di Cucagna on Rodingerius Hill. Both castles are part of the La pedemontana orientale route, which passes through Faedis to Canale di Grivò. Check trail conditions and access before setting out.

A footpath to the Castello di Cucagna starts in Borgo Santa Anastasia. Visits are available by reservation through the Consorzio per la Salvaguardia dei Castelli Storici del Friuli Venezia Giulia; check the latest booking details before travelling. Marked forest trails lead from Faedis to the Castello di Zucco on foot. Check trail conditions locally.

Historic Traces in the Town

The Centa di Faedis fortification stood in the town centre in Piazza Plebiscito, below the 20th-century Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Today, only the 14th-century tower remains. A bell chamber was added to the tower in the 17th century. The Madonna in Castello also dates from the 14th century; the church is home to the Madonna Lactans fresco, which can be viewed there.

The Castello di Soffumbergo is associated with another historic connection: in 1298, the Patriarch chose it as the court’s summer residence. The castle’s ancient chapel has been fully restored. The different buildings thus reflect various periods and uses, from fortification and church to the court’s former residence.

Forest Trails and Memorial Sites

The trail to the Cascate Gemelle runs through the forest, parallel to the Rio Marchiat, and leads to the twin waterfalls near Faedis. After driving from Faedis towards Canebola, the trail starts at a wooden sign; from the parking area, a footpath of about 50 metres leads to it. This makes it easy to identify the trailhead.

The route to the Malghe di Porzus is also signposted from Faedis, and there is a large parking area near the huts. The Topli Uorch huts, now generally known as the Malghe di Porzus, are a national monument commemorating the massacre between partisan groups carried out in 1945. Information panels are on site. The outing thus leads to a memorial site where the history is presented at the huts.

Sant'Anastasia is another starting point for trails: from there, numerous panoramic routes pass through valleys, by castles and as far as the mountain huts. These trail descriptions differ from the marked forest trails from Faedis to the Castello di Zucco in both their starting point and destination.

Winegrowing and Local Events

Faedis is a well-known wine-growing area. Refosco, an old grape variety with a deep ruby-red colour and fruity flavour, takes centre stage. Around twenty varieties of wine grapes are grown in the municipality; Picolit is also part of the local wine production. The range of wines can therefore be understood on two levels: Refosco plays the leading role, while the approximate number of varieties gives an idea of the breadth of production.

The Festa del Vino e delle Fragole is one of the best-known events in the Faedis community. Tourist activities include visits and tastings at numerous wineries; arrange the details directly with the individual wineries.

Discover more destinations: Taipana, Tolmezzo, Lavariano, Fagagna, Sella Nevea, Cavazzo Carnico, Chiusaforte, Marano Lagunare.

For the full travel overview: Udine.