Piazza 4 novembre, 20 - 31051, Follina (TV)
Coordinate GPS: 12° 07' 08,1" E | 45° 57' 10,9" N
Nestled in the heart of Veneto region, where ancient stone lanes intersect under the watchful gaze of the Treviso Prealps, lies the enchanting town of Follina. Steeped in a rich tapestry of history that predates the year 1000, this picturesque town rests comfortably between the renowned cities of Valdobbiadene and Vittorio Veneto.
A crucial chapter of Follina's history unfurled in the 12th century when it became the chosen sanctuary of a group of Cistercian monks. Drawn to the bountiful waters that characterised the area, they breathed life into a prosperous industry, spinning the local wool into finely woven cloth that caught the admiration of many.
Gracing Follina with its compelling beauty, the awe-inspiring Abbey of Santa Maria stands as a proud testament to the town's spiritual legacy. Founded around 1150, this architectural marvel, an exquisite blend of Romanesque-Gothic style, is not merely a spiritual sanctuary for devoted pilgrims and curious tourists but a cultural beacon illuminating the landscape of the region. Today, the Abbey resonates with the melodious strains of concerts led by maestro Uto Ughi and cultural events, actively involving the local institutions, including the notable hotels.
Follina today is an illustrious cultural nexus and a flourishing tourism hotspot. Its cobblestone streets are lined with grand 18th-century palaces, harking back to a bygone era of elegance. Industrious artisans and thriving businesses give Follina a contemporary pulse, whilst the comfortable hospitality options make it an inviting destination for travellers.
As an integral part of the "I Borghi più belli d'Italia" (The most beautiful villages in Italy), Follina is a medieval gem nestled amongst the undulating Prosecco hills. Echoes of its storied past reverberate along the Roman road Claudia Augusta Altinate, which once bore the measured tread of Roman centurions journeying from the azure Adriatic shores to the verdant expanses of modern-day Germany.
Now, Follina sparkles as a jewel set within the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Prosecco Hills since 2019. Owing to its strategic position, this humble village unfurls as the ideal canvas to paint an immersive Prosecco experience, one that engages all senses and leaves an indelible mark on the visitor's memory.