1. Piazza San Giovanni – The heart of the town

Begin your tour at Bar da Giordano, set in one of Cividale’s oldest squares. Here you'll find the Church of San Giovanni in Xenodochio, a historical gem rich in charm and significance.

Did you know? The term xenodochium referred to a guesthouse for pilgrims. As early as the Lombard era, a paleochristian basilica stood on this site, later transformed into a place of worship and hospitality.
The current structure, rebuilt in the 19th century, preserves a ceiling painted by Palma il Giovane and wooden furnishings crafted by local master artisan Matteo Deganutti. Two original altarpieces, once housed in the church and painted by Paolo Veronese, are now displayed in the Christian Museum.

After being closed for several decades, the church was fully restored and reopened in 2018. It is accessible on special occasions or by appointment through the parish of the Duomo.

2. Stretta della Giudaica – Traces of the Jewish Quarter

Continue along Stretta della Giudaica, one of the oldest and narrowest lanes in Cividale. This was once the heart of the town’s historic Jewish ghetto, active until 1494. The unique atmosphere, with its tight alleys and ancient stone walls, whispers stories from a distant past.

Did you know? During 19th-century excavations, Jewish funerary tombstones were uncovered here. These are now preserved in the National Archaeological Museum. Some of them bear Hebrew inscriptions and family symbols, offering a rare glimpse into Cividale’s Jewish heritage.

3. Stretta Santa Maria di Corte

Continue through Stretta Santa Maria di Corte, a narrow and intimate passage that leads you toward the spiritual heart of the city. The quiet surroundings and ancient stone walls create a timeless atmosphere, immersing you in the past with every step.

4. Via Monastero Maggiore and the Lombard Temple

Walk along Via Monastero Maggiore until you reach the Monastery of Santa Maria in Valle. Within this complex lies the renowned Tempietto Longobardo, or Lombard Temple—one of the most significant monuments of the Early Middle Ages.

Did you know? The Tempietto, built in the 8th century, is famous for its six stucco statues of women—likely Lombard noblewomen or saints—that adorn the apse. The monument has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding historical and artistic value.

The Tempietto is open daily from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

5. Vittorio Podrecca International Center – The Theatre of Wonders by Maria Signorelli

Within the Monastery of Santa Maria in Valle, you’ll also find the Vittorio Podrecca International Center – Theatre of Wonders by Maria Signorelli. This museum hosts a remarkable collection of puppets and marionettes with exceptional historical and artistic value.

Did you know? Vittorio Podrecca, a native of Cividale, was one of the greatest Italian puppet theatre directors and impresarios. His internationally acclaimed company, the “Teatro dei Piccoli” (Theatre for Children), toured the world throughout the 20th century.
Maria Signorelli, an artist and passionate collector, preserved a vast archive of materials related to puppet theatre, now declared of exceptional cultural interest by the Italian Ministry of Culture.

The museum offers a fascinating journey into the world of puppetry, featuring marionettes, glove puppets, and theatrical sets that bring the rich history of this unique art form to life.

6. Porta Patriarcale and the View over the Natisone River

Continuing along Via Monastero Maggiore, you’ll reach the Porta Patriarcale, one of the ancient gateways to the medieval town. A little further on, to the left, you'll spot the frescoed façade of the Church of San Biagio, and just beyond that, a spectacular view opens up over the Natisone River.

Did you know? This was once a key passage for pilgrims on their way to the Holy Land, who followed the ancient Via del Patriarca. Today, it's a quieter and lesser-known corner of Cividale—but one of the most evocative and scenic.

8. The Devil’s Bridge and the Belvedere

Head back and walk up Borgo di Ponte until you reach the Devil’s Bridge (Ponte del Diavolo). After crossing it, turn left to reach the belvedere, a panoramic terrace that offers a breathtaking view of the Natisone gorge and the houses perched dramatically above the river, suspended between sky and stone.

Did you know? The Devil’s Bridge is steeped in legend. According to local lore, after several failed attempts to build a solid crossing, the people of Cividale asked the devil for help. He agreed—on one condition: the soul of the first being to cross the bridge would be his. The citizens accepted… and sent a dog across first.
Tricked, the devil is said to have vanished into the river's waters, leaving behind only the bridge.

10. Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta

Head back toward the town center and arrive at the scenic Piazza del Duomo. It’s time to step inside the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Cividale’s main church.

Inside, you’ll find sacred artworks, richly decorated Baroque altars, and most notably, the Silver Altarpiece of Pellegrino II, dating back to around the year 1200—an authentic masterpiece of early medieval metalwork.

Admission is free (check the schedule in advance to avoid visiting during religious services).

13. National Archaeological Museum

Next to the Cathedral stands the prestigious National Archaeological Museum, home to an outstanding collection of Roman and, most notably, Lombard artifacts. You’ll find reconstructed tombs, complete burial sets, weapons, votive crosses, jewelry, and everyday tools.

In the museum’s courtyard, you can also see the remains of ancient Roman baths, offering a glimpse into daily life in Cividale two thousand years ago.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Full ticket: €6

15. Piazza Paolo Diacono

Continue along Corso Mazzini until you reach Piazza Paolo Diacono, one of the liveliest squares in Cividale. It’s a popular meeting point, often animated by events, local markets, and cafés.

Did you know? The square is named after Paolo Diacono, a Lombard monk and historian who lived in the 8th century. He is best known for his Historia Langobardorum, the principal historical source on the Lombard people and their era.

16. Return to Bar da Giordano

Walk through the small archway at the far end of the square and return to Piazza San Giovanni. Your walk ends where it began—at Bar da Giordano.

Take a well-earned break with a glass of Friulian wine, a refreshing aperitivo, or a slice of homemade gubana—perhaps while browsing through the photos you just took on your walk.