Piovene Rocchette

Piovene Rocchette is where most of my family live - I have about eight uncles and aunts and countless cousins in this one tiny place. It is a pleasant little village with an interesting old town that meanders its way up the slopes of the legendary local mountain – Monte Summano.

A favorite street in the morning

What to Visit

There are a few interesting sights in the old town. The little chapel, known as the Ospizio, is my favorite spot.

Ospizio dates back to the 17th century and was run by friars who offered a place to stay and a hot meal to the many pilgrims who used to make the trip up Monte Summano.

The local Church of S. Stefano dating back to the 18th century is lovely too.

Near the church there is a shady piazza which is a pleasant place to relax in the summer under the huge pine trees.

There is a little bar in the piazza where you can sit and have something to drink while watching the passing parade.

Kids play while mothers relax and old people stand around gossiping. Best day to be here is Friday when the local market is in full swing.

The market winds up and down the main street and off down the side ones too; they have stalls selling all sorts of things from clothes to cheese and you'll find some fabulous treats and great bargains. I could easily spend an entire morning at the market and normally do!

In fact Friday's market is such a local legend that all the folks from neighbouring towns come to Piovene to do their shopping, catch up on news and see old friends.

When you've done shopping head on down the hill to a local landmark - the haunted castle of Palazzino Fraccaroli. Built in the 18th century, but never finished, local legend says it is a cursed and haunted place.

I never go near the place!

I sent my husband to take the photo. I'm always convinced I see ghosts floating outside or just inside the top windows, which is where they are supposed to appear...can you see any? Maybe it's just me.

Monte Summano

Monte Summano dominates Piovene and has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries – traces of bronze and Iron Age settlements have been found on the slopes of the mountain.

Pilgrims have flocked to Monte Summano ever since the Bishop of Padua dedicated it to the Virgin Mary back in the 15th century.

The mountain offers some great hiking trails and it is a popular jumping off point for hang-gliders - something I have never had the courage to do. Still you don't need to jump off the top just enjoy the fantastic view. On a clear day you can see nearly to Venice.

Same street as the first photo on this page but in the evening

What else to do? I would recommend...

First is to just stroll around the little streets, squares and alleys of the old town, enjoying the atmosphere.
Wander up the narrow lanes as they climb the mountain and take in the ever more impressive view. The photo above was taken right at the start of the walk in a narrow lane where there is a drinking fountain with the freshest mountain spring water you'll ever taste. I must warn you though - the streets can get very steep and it can be hot work in the summer - if it gets too much like hot and thirsty work then read on...
Beer lovers must visit the Birreria Summano. One of the oldest Italian breweries it has now been taken over by a large German brewery. The good part is that the beer is still excellent...according to my husband who's the beer expert!

They have a great restaurant serving local specialties. Wholesome, very tasty food it is and the prices are very reasonable.

If you want to use Piovene Rocchette as a base to explore the Veneto then there is a lovely little hotel on the edge of town that is perfect. Family owned and with that really welcoming Italian family feel about it. The hotel is the Albergo Ristorante Belvedere in nearby Thiene.

Where is Piovene?

Discover the pretty little nearby town of Santorso

You'll Enjoy These...

Summer in Italy

Ever experienced a summer in Italy? Well, we've a way that you can bring the sunshine and happiness of an Italian summer home with you.
Gold Jewellery in Italy

Looking to buy gold jewellery in Italy? No place could ever beat Vicenza! Vicenza is the Italian and indeed world capital of gold jewellery making. Visit the home of Italian gold!
The Best Thermo Spas near Venice Italy

Our complete guide to the thermo spas near Venice Italy. From where to stay through to what to see our insider guide will help you to plan the perfect stress-free visit. Just click to get started...
Stunning Pictures of Veneto Italy

Some lovely pictures of Veneto and some beautiful photos of Venice Italy. Our site is an insiders guide to this magical region of Italy. A ghost can be seen in the third photo
Fall in Love with Padova

City of bicycles, City of canals, City of medieval wonders. Padova is all of this and much more.
Padua Italy - A Home for the Heart

Padua Italy, known as Padova in Italian, has to be one of the loveliest of all Italian cities. There is so much to see and do here and it is a city that so many fall hopelessly in love with... I certainly did.
Need a Good Restaurant in Padova?

So you need a good restaurant in Padova? Well, we've discovered just the place: a little family run restaurant serving traditional dishes in the heart of the old town.
Veneto Italy - An Insiders Guide

Veneto Italy is full of secrets, a place of great natural beauty, ancient medieval villages and two of the greatest cities on earth. Discover one of Italy's most beautiful regions...
Christmas in Italy? Everything You Need is Here!

Planning a Christmas in Italy? I have everything you need - advice on Italian Christmas traditions, insider tips, weather, great value accommodation picks and a guide to the best restaurants.
6 Places to See near Venice

These 6 places to see near Venice are awesome. If you're visiting Venice don't miss out on seeing them.
The Best Luxury Hotels in Venice Italy

Which is the best of all the luxury hotels in Venice Italy? Read my insider’s guide and discover the answer. Awaiting you are not only the five best Venetian luxury hotels but...
Torbole sul Garda - Love at First Sight

Breathtaking Torbole sul Garda has prime position on Lake Garda. Surrounded by huge mountain peaks, and with a view due south down the entire lake, it is hard not to fall in love at first sight.

Please Book with Us...

Maria here, if you enjoy my site and Facebook page I'd love your support.

Simply book your next trip anywhere (not only to Italy) with the search box below or with any of the hotel links on the website.

I promise you'll get the best deal on accommodation available and the income we receive from HotelsCombined helps us to:

Stay independent and to keep bringing you the best of Italy.
Never have to accept money from hotels directly; that way we can share only those we genuinely love.