Rive d'Arcano
Exploring Rive d'Arcano: a gem of Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Rive d'Arcano is an Italian municipality of 2,370 inhabitants located in Friuli-Venezia Giulia. It is a farm town characterized by ancient villages and historical monuments. Among the points of interest is the Castle of Tricano or d'Arcano in the village of Arcano Superiore, an old fortified construction from the 12th century with a 17th-century church inside. Near this castle, we find the charming Pieve di San Martino, another interesting church built in the 1400s.
Monuments and Places of Interest
The Castle of Tricano or d'Arcano is the only survivor of the two or possibly three castles that were built within the feudal domain of the Tricano family (later d'Arcano). The castle is located in the village of Arcano Superiore, and its construction dates back to the 10th century. The origins of the castle date back to Leonardo da Cornu, whose son Ropretto (or Rioretto) settled in feudalism as the founder of the Tricano family, later becoming d'Arcano. The family took its name from its iconic emblem with three black dogs that symbolized loyalty to the Emperor and the Patriarch of Aquileia. The Tricano family became the hereditary office of marshals and standard-bearers of the Aquileian Church, due to their loyalty. The family was involved in all the feudal conflicts that struck the Patriarchy between the 14th and 15th centuries.
In 1420, the castle passed under the dominion of the Republic of Venice and in 1511 was damaged during the cruel Fat Thursday. Exteriorly, the complex appears massive, with late Romanesque bifores, battlements, walkways, and lookout towers. Inside, it is instead a country residence, with some valuable 17th and 18th-century frescoes.
The castle is also linked to a mysterious event that occurred in 1635. Francesco d'Arcano married Todeschina di Prampero, who was then stabbed to death out of jealousy. Todeschina, before dying, wrote her initials with her own blood on a castle wall, and such writing remained visible until the earthquake of 1976. Francesco had the corpse walled up, which was found during the restoration work in the early 20th century.
Pieve di San Martino (Rive d'Arcano) is another interesting church built in the 1400s located near the Castle of Tricano. The church is situated on a hill with a panoramic view of the city. It is famous for its Gothic architecture, and the interior is decorated with a magnificent altar, paintings, and sculptures in Baroque style. The church is an active place of worship and is highly appreciated for religious services.
The Church of San Mauro is also located in Arcano Superiore. This church dates back to the 18th century and is dedicated to the patron saint of farmers. The church building is in Baroque style and has an interior decorated with frescoes.
The Church of Sant'Andrea Apostolo in Rodeano Alto is the last church on the list, which can be reached via a short panoramic walk. This church is of medieval origin and underwent several interventions between the 15th and 18th centuries. The interior is decorated with frescoes and valuable assets.
Society
Demographic Evolution
The city of Rive d'Arcano has seen a steady increase in its population over the years. According to recent statistics, the municipality has reached a population of 2,370 inhabitants.
Languages and dialects
The Friulian language is still spoken daily in Rive d'Arcano along with Italian. According to Resolution no. 2680 of August 3, 2001 of the Council of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia Autonomous Region, the Municipality is included in the list of Italian municipalities of Friulian language for the purposes of the application of the law 482/99, regional law 15/96 and regional law 29/2007. The Friulian language used in Rive d'Arcano belongs to the central-eastern Friulian varieties.
Economy
Craftsmanship
The economy of Rive d'Arcano is primarily driven by agriculture and woodworking. The municipality has a long tradition in the craft of footwear production, especially slippers.
Administration
The administration of Rive d'Arcano takes place under a communal system with a mayor and a city council. The current mayor is Luca Lorenzon.
Sport
Football
The ASD Rive d'Arcano Flaibano is the football club of the Municipality, which plays in the Friulian Promotion group A. The team has a loyal fan base that follows every game and ensures a pleasant atmosphere for the whole city.
Rive d'Arcano is a city rich in history and charm. Each monument and place of interest offers the opportunity to discover the local culture and its artistic richness. The inhabitants welcome tourists warmly and make their stay pleasant and unforgettable. It is definitely worth visiting this town in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a hidden gem that never disappoints.
