Piovene Rocchette

Piovene Rocchette is where most of my family lives—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.

Things to Do in Piovene Rocchette

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

The Chapel of 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 under the huge pine trees.

There's 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.

The 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 this market and normally do whenever I am in town!

In fact, Friday's market is such a local legend that all the folks from neighboring towns come to Piovene to do their shopping, catch up on news, and see old friends. My brother, Luigi, is always there on a Friday; say hi from me if you meet him.

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 in the photo below? Maybe it's just me, but I am sure there is something in that top right window and the middle left one.

The Asteric Mural

Who would have thought? In the peaceful little town of Piovene Rocchette, surrounded by mountains, there’s a glorious mural of Asterix and Obelix! Not something you expect in Italy, is it? But it’s true—and what’s even more special is that the mural tells the story of this very town. From ancient Roman times to pilgrims hiking up Monte Summano, even the days of weaving and trains… all woven into one colorful, joyful wall of art.

Albert Uderzo, the genius behind Asterix, had family roots right here, and I think you can feel the love in every brushstroke. 

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.

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