Travel Guide Sacile

Known as "the garden of the Serenissima", Sacile is a charming town nestled in the meanders of the Livenza river, 20 km west of Pordenone. With a population of 20,000, it is the second largest city in the province. The sumptuous Renaissance palaces are reflected in the olive-colored waters, while weeping willows and field flowers give the area a country feel. It is pleasant to stroll under the porticoes, to cross the bridges and the footbridges to admire the different views of the city. The center of Sacile is spread over two islands, the first of which is Piazza del Popolo, where the weekly market is held on Thursdays, and the second, the Duomo of San Nicolò with its high Venetian-style bell tower. The apse of the cathedral is decorated with a cycle of paintings by Pino Casarini, one of the few Italian fresco artists of the 20th century. On the first Sunday after Easter, La Sagra degli Osei, one of the oldest Italian festivals, honors birds (and their masters). The streets are transformed into a giant bird house, to the delight of children.