Cesuna

Welcome to Cesuna, the hamlet of Roana nestled in the Venetian pre-Alps!

Located in the southwestern area of the Asiago Plateau of the Seven Municipalities, south of Roana, Cesuna is a hamlet of the municipality of Roana. It is known as "Kan Züne" in Cimbrian language. This toponym could have Celtic roots and mean "populated fenced place", or could derive from the Latin name "Caeso", referring to a landowner.

The history of Cesuna

The mountains and woods surrounding Cesuna were the scene of events during World War I. Starting from April 1918, the area was garrisoned by British military forces who built a system of trenches, armored positions and shelters. Later, in June, Austro-Hungarian troops attacked the area.

Cesuna: History, Church of the Immaculate and British Cemetery.

The Immaculate Parish Church

The Immaculate Parish Church dates back to 1744. Initially, the inhabitants referred to the distant parish of Canove. In 1832, the church of Cesuna was erected as a "curaziale" and, finally, in 1899 as a parish church. Rebuilt on a larger scale between 1840 and 1868, it was damaged during the Great War. However, it was later restored and consecrated in 1927. Of particular interest is a "Pietà" in carved and painted wood, made by Venetian craftsmen in the first half of the 20th century. On the apse wall are placed a painting from 1974 depicting the Immaculate and a fresco by Teodoro Licini from 1941 showing "Jesus in the temple among the doctors".

The British Cemetery of Val Magnaboschi

Outside the village of Cesuna, in the Val Magnaboschi locality, is the "Magnaboschi British Cemetery". This cemetery houses the graves of 183 British soldiers who fell in defense of the territories of the Seven Municipalities Plateau against the Austro-Hungarian offensive of June 15, 1918. The cemetery is managed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

Conclusions

Cesuna is a hamlet of Roana nestled in the Venetian pre-Alps. What is now a quiet mountain resort was the scene of bitter fighting during World War I. Tangible evidence of this historical past is the British Cemetery of Val Magnaboschi, which testifies to the commitment of British soldiers in the defense of the Seven Municipalities Plateau. The Immaculate Parish Church, on the other hand, is a small treasure trove that houses important sacred works of art. Cesuna is therefore an ideal destination for those who wish to discover the history and tradition of this corner of Veneto.

Simone Costa
Wrote by Simone Costa
Updated Friday, Jun 24, 2022