Guided Tour of Cividale, a UNESCO Site for Lombard History

Cividale del Friuli, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers travelers a captivating glimpse into Lombard history. A guided walking tour takes visitors on a journey through the architectural and cultural remnants of this 6th-8th century Italian town. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, sharing insights into the significance of landmarks like the Santa Maria in Valle Monastery and the Tempietto Longobardo. This two-hour experience immerses participants in Cividale’s rich past, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. But the true allure lies in what’s waiting to be discovered within these ancient walls.

Key Points

• Guided walking tour of Cividale, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the architectural and cultural remnants of the Lombard era.
• 2-hour tour includes access to the Santa Maria in Valle Monastery, a highlight featuring the Lombard-era Tempietto Longobardo and baptistery.
• Knowledgeable guide provides insights into the historical significance of Cividale and the lasting influence of the Lombard civilization.
• Tour explores key Lombard landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Cividale, Natisone River Bridges, and the Lombard Museum.
• Flexible meeting point, accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs, and overall cost-effective experience for small groups.

Tour Overview

The guided walking tour of Cividale, a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlights the area’s Lombard history.

During the 2-hour tour, visitors will explore the historic town and gain access to the Santa Maria in Valle Monastery, with its entrance fee of €6.

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to witness firsthand the architectural and cultural remnants of the Lombard era.

Along the way, the knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the region’s past, bringing the heritage of Cividale to life.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a deeper understanding of Italy’s rich past, this tour offers an engaging and enlightening experience.

Meeting and End Points

The tour begins at a select location and concludes at the Belvedere sul Natisone, 33043 Cividale del Friuli, Province of Udine, Italy, offering visitors a panoramic view after crossing the Devil’s Bridge. This ending point provides a scenic overlook of the charming town and the surrounding Natisone River valley.

The meeting point is flexible, allowing participants to conveniently join the guided walk. Throughout the 2-hour tour, the group will explore the UNESCO-listed Cividale, seeing the rich Lombard history and culture.

The knowledgeable guide leads the way, sharing fascinating insights and ensuring a memorable experience for all.

Accessibility and Participation

Service animals are welcome on the guided tour of Cividale. The tour is near public transportation and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Most travelers can participate, though they must be able to walk for 2 hours straight.

The tour’s accessibility features include:

1. Service animals allowed.
2. Proximity to public transportation.
3. Stroller and wheelchair accessibility.
4. Requirement of 2 hours of continuous walking.

While the tour is designed to accommodate a wide range of participants, visitors should ensure they can comfortably complete the 2-hour walking portion.

This will allow them to fully enjoy the Lombard history and UNESCO-recognized sights of Cividale.

Pricing and Booking Details

This guided tour of Cividale is available as a private experience for groups of up to 12 people, with a starting price from $213.63 per group.

Booking is flexible, as there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Once reserved, you’ll receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The tour covers entrance to the Santa Maria in Valle Monastery, with a ticket cost of €6 included.

Reviews and Feedback

Based on the review provided, it appears travelers have been quite satisfied with the guided tour of Cividale. According to one reviewer, Kurt_P, the tour guide, Frau Elbrich Bos, demonstrated an extensive historical knowledge and passion for sharing information about the city and surrounding region.

The tour received an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5, indicating that most visitors found the experience to be positive. Some key aspects that contributed to the strong review include:

1. Frau Bos’ deep understanding of Lombard history and its significance in Cividale.

2. Her ability to convey the information in an engaging and informative manner.

3. The inclusion of the Santa Maria in Valle Monastery, a UNESCO-listed site.

4. The overall organization and pacing of the 2-hour walking tour.

Lombard History in Cividale

Cividale del Friuli, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a rich Lombard heritage that permeates its medieval architecture and cultural traditions. The Lombards, an influential Germanic tribe, ruled over this region during the 6th-8th centuries AD. Their legacy can be seen in the remarkable Tempietto Longobardo, a 8th-century oratory featuring intricate Lombard carvings. Visitors can also explore the town’s Lombard museum, which showcases an impressive collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits.

Lombard Landmarks in Cividale
Tempietto Longobardo
Lombard Museum
Cathedral of Cividale
Natisone River Bridges
Monastery of Santa Maria in Valle

The tour offers an immersive journey through Cividale’s Lombard past, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the enduring influence of this remarkable civilization.

Exploring the Monastery

As visitors venture into the Monastery of Santa Maria in Valle, they’re greeted by the serene ambiance and exquisite Lombard architecture that has stood the test of time. The 6-euro admission ticket grants access to this captivating UNESCO heritage site, where travelers can explore:

1. The stunning Tempietto Longobardo, a Lombard-era chapel adorned with intricate carvings and frescoes.

2. The remarkable Lombard-era baptistery, its octagonal structure a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

3. The tranquil cloister, with its elegant arches and peaceful atmosphere, inviting visitors to pause and reflect.

4. The impressive collection of Lombard artifacts and relics showcased throughout the monastery’s halls.

This guided tour offers a unique window into Cividale’s Lombard past, captivating visitors with its historical significance and architectural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Primary Language Used During the Tour?

The primary language used during the tour is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, it is reasonable to assume the tour is conducted in the local language, which is likely Italian, given the tour location in Cividale, Italy.

Are Food and Drinks Provided During the Tour?

No, food and drinks are not provided during the tour. The tour focuses on the historical sites and walking through the city. Participants are responsible for bringing their own food and drinks, if desired, during the 2-hour walking experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for participants of all ages, though children must be able to walk for the 2-hour duration. The tour is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs as well.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the guide, who’ll tailor the experience to highlight relevant historical, architectural, or cultural aspects of Cividale.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can likely be extended for an additional fee. The tour operator may offer options to customize the tour duration or include additional sites based on the group’s interests and availability.

Recap

This guided tour provides a captivating opportunity to explore Cividale’s rich Lombard history.

Knowledgeable guides lead participants through the UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting architectural and cultural remnants from the 6th to 8th centuries.

From the Santa Maria in Valle Monastery to the Tempietto Longobardo, the tour offers a memorable journey for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.