Maniago
Maniago: the city of knives
Maniago is an Italian municipality located in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. It is known worldwide as the "City of Knives" thanks to the presence of numerous artisanal knife-making companies that have been producing high-quality knives since the Middle Ages. In 1998, the Museum of Iron and Cutlery Art was inaugurated, which tells the story and tradition of iron and knife-making in Maniago.
Etymology
The name "Maniago" has Latin origins with the addition of the Celtic suffix "-aco," meaning "land of Manilius." Some archaeological finds in the area testify to the ancient Roman presence in the region.
Physical Geography
Territory and Environment
The city of Maniago is located in the western part of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, at the foot of the Carnic Pre-Alps, in the area where the Valcellina and Val Còlvera meet. The municipal area extends from 171 to 1224 meters above sea level, hosting a wide variety of natural environments, from the forest floor to meadows.
Rivers and Streams
Among the main rivers and streams that cross the territory of Maniago are the Meduna, Cellina, Colvera, and Rio Molta.
Mountains
The area is characterized by the presence of several mountains, including Monte Jôuf, Monte Fara, and Monte San Lorenzo, which offer breathtaking views.
Valleys
The main valleys that cross the territory of Maniago are Valcellina, Val Còlvera, and Valpiccola.
Climate
The climate of Maniago is temperate, with quite cold winters and hot, rainy summers. Rainfall is fairly regular throughout the year, with the highest temperatures recorded in summer and autumn.
The Tradition of Knives
The tradition of iron and knife-making in Maniago dates back to the Middle Ages when the town was famous for producing weapons and tools for farmers. Over the centuries, knife production has been refined, becoming one of the symbols of the city.
The art of knife-making is still taught today in the schools of Maniago, with the aim of preserving and spreading the artisanal tradition. In addition to artisanal knife-making companies, there are also companies that produce high-end knives for professional and sporting use.
Places of Interest
In addition to the Museum of Iron and Cutlery Art, Maniago has several tourist attractions worth visiting. These include the Church of San Mauro, the Palace of the Rectors, the former Fish Market of Piazza Italia, the Clock Tower, and the ancient fountains located in the historic center.
A few kilometers from Maniago are also the Dolomiti Friulane Park and Lake Barcis, immersed in the unspoiled nature of the Carnic Pre-Alps.
Conclusion
Maniago is a city rich in history and tradition, known worldwide for the art of iron and knife-making. Its territory offers breathtaking landscapes and a wide variety of natural environments, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The city is also distinguished by the presence of numerous monuments and places of interest, which testify to its ancient history.
