Portogruaro
Welcome to Portogruaro, the Venetian city inland
Hello everyone! Today I'm going to talk to you about Portogruaro, a lovely Venetian town located inland in the region, about 50 kilometers from Venice.
Physical geography
The territory of Portogruaro is characterized by the presence of the Lemene River, which played a fundamental role in the urban development of the city. The area is flat and characterized by numerous springs that feed the watercourses that flow towards the Adriatic coast.
Climate
The climate in Portogruaro is temperate, with hot summers and frequent rain especially between March and May.
Urban layout
The city has a comb-like structure, with two main arteries that run parallel to the Lemene. The ancient walls of Portogruaro are still visible, along with the three gates that allowed access to the city.
The origin of the name and the history of Portogruaro
The name of Portogruaro derives from "port" and from the name of the nearby municipality of Gruaro, which once controlled the area. The urban center was first mentioned in a diploma of the king of Italy, Berengar of Friuli, in 888.
The Middle Ages
In the medieval period, Portogruaro grew in importance thanks to its strategic position on the Via Annia and as a river port for trade with the nearby Concordia Sagittaria. In 1140, the city was cited as a "port" and later became an important commercial center between the two cities of Venice and Aquileia.
The modern era
During the Venetian domination, Portogruaro underwent a period of great splendor and artistic and cultural development. Numerous churches and palaces were built, including the town hall with its characteristic gothic lacework and the bell tower, which leans more than those in Pisa and Venice.
The twentieth century
In the twentieth century, the city suffered the effects of the two world wars and the dissolution of the guilds, but in the 1970s an important economic revival began.
Tourist attractions
Portogruaro offers numerous tourist attractions, including the famous mills on the Lemene River and the beautiful Piazza della Repubblica, with its arcades and historic buildings.
Cultural events
Throughout the year, the city hosts numerous cultural events such as the "Portogruaro dal Vivo" festival and the "Fiera del Peronio", an event dedicated to the traditional village festival that celebrates the end of winter and the beginning of spring.
Conclusions
If you have the opportunity to visit the Veneto region, don't miss the opportunity to discover Portogruaro. The city offers an authentic experience, with canals, bridges, and arcades that make it a true "Venice inland".
