Saturday 5th October 2024 (day 22)
This morning we headed further north east and have decided to stay overnight near the small town of Gemona del Friuli which sits on the edge of the eastern Italian Alps. We are staying in the grounds of “Hotel Willy” which is very reasonable at 15€ including electricity. Near to the entrance, there are two locomotives:
After setting-up, we walked up to Gemona del Friuli which is a steady climb, taking around 45 minutes to get up to the castle which sits overlooking the town.
Arriving in the town, we enjoyed a little light refreshment before continuing up to the castle.
When we arrived at the castle gate, we discovered that is was closed for repairs, but we were able to climb up alongside the main structure to a terrace overlooking the surrounding countryside.
After descending about half-way down, we discovered that you could also climb up the other side of the hill to another terrace, where there was a small ornamental fountain with a model castle in the middle. This terrace provided alternative views of the surrounding countryside.
After returning to street level, we visited the cathedral which has a separate tower, built alongside:
Inside, the church was interesting but not too ornate, unlike many we had seen previously in Italy.
The town suffered a huge and devastating earthquake in 1976, causing 990 deaths, 3000 injuries and much destruction leaving 157,000 people homeless. Buildings have, of course been rebuilt, but it is clear that a shadow remains over the community and there is a permanent exhibition, showing the extent of the damage, in one of the shops.
Tomorrow, we head further north and west, to Slovenia.
"See-u-Later" 