Mel
Mel: The Hidden Treasure of Valbelluna
Welcome to Mel, a hidden gem in the beautiful Valbelluna. The commune, which has already won the orange flag of the Italian Touring Club for two consecutive times, is famous for its well-preserved historic center and since 2018 has been part of the "Most Beautiful Villages in Italy". Discover with us all the secrets of this wonderful village.
Physical Geography
Mel is located in the heart of Valbelluna, equidistant from Belluno and Feltre, and is connected to these cities by the smooth provincial road of the Left Piave. The territory extends between the Piave river and the Belluno Prealps and is characterized by a hilly and semi-flat area, while the rest of the territory is mountainous. The village is located on the left bank of the Piave river and on the right side of the Puner stream, its tributary.
Origin of Name
The name "Mel" derives from the Zumelle castle, located nearby. The term "gemellus" ("twin") indicated that the fortress was in opposition to the nearby Castelvint.
History
Mel has an ancient history dating back to the 8th century BC, when a group of Paleovenetian inhabitants settled in the area. Numerous artifacts found in their settlement, located about 1 km from the center, are preserved in the village's Civic Museum.
Subsequently, between the 5th and 3rd centuries BC, the area was occupied by the Gauls, whose names are still present in the toponymy of the territory.
During the Roman era, the territory around Mel was part of Roman history and the village still preserves several artifacts from the time, such as tombstones, graves, weapons, coins, and everyday objects. The area was crossed by the Via Claudia Augusta, an important road that connected the Po Valley with the Alps.
With the end of the Roman Empire, the Barbarians arrived, including the Lombards, of which there are several testimonies in places of worship such as the church of San Donato.
In the Middle Ages, many castles were built to defend the valley and the communication routes. The Zumelle Castle was the most important and the Mel county became a protagonist in the historical scene of the area. In 1404, the Zumelle county was recognized by the Republic of Venice, leading to the destruction of the defensive system except for the Zumelle Castle.
Attractions
Mel is a village with numerous attractions. The village preserves a beautiful historic center, which will make you feel like you are in a fairy tale. Its charming alleys, narrow and divided into lanes, are an example of medieval architecture. Walk through the center and admire the traditional portals of ancient farmhouses, the mansions, the church of San Valerio Bishop, and the chapel of San Lorenzo.
The Zumelle Castle is one of the main attractions of the area. It can be visited by reservation and appreciated for the majesty of its walls.
Mel is also a destination for nature lovers, thanks to the beauty of the Piave river and the surrounding mountains. From the mountains, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and the Venetian plain. The Pezzei Nature Reserve is located in the mountainous area of Mel and is an area of great natural value. The area also offers several opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, cycling, and skiing.
In the summer, do not miss the most anticipated event of the area, the Old Village Festival, a celebration in the alleys of the historic center with shows, events, and a wide variety of food and drinks.
Cuisine
Mel's cuisine is part of the Venetian culinary tradition and offers many tasty dishes. Do not miss the opportunity to taste bripola, a typical dish of the area based on pork meat, and bread gnocchi, made with stale bread and seasoned with meat sauce.
Also, indulge in local cheeses such as Piave and Bastardo del Grappa, and typical Venetian desserts such as fregolotta and raspberry tart.
Conclusion
Mel is a charming place where you can enjoy the beauty of nature, history, and local culture. Its well-preserved historic center, Zumelle Castle, Pezzei Nature Reserve, and culinary specialties make it a place to visit. Come and discover this hidden treasure in Valbelluna!
