Santa Maria la Longa
Welcome to Santa Maria la Longa: the hidden gem of Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Santa Maria la Longa is a small municipality located in the Friulian plain, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes of the Caricchi and Giulie Alps. Agriculture has been the main source of income for many years, but today visitors can appreciate the splendid noble villas and churches that are the most precious monuments of the territory.
Physical geography
Territory
The mostly cultivated territory of Santa Maria la Longa is crossed by rivers and represents an oasis of tranquility immersed in nature. This municipality includes five towns: the main one and the hamlets of Mereto di Capitolo, Tissano, Santo Stefano Udinese and Ronchiettis. From these places, on clear days, it is possible to admire the majestic profile of the Carnic and Julian Alps.
Origin of the name
The name of the municipality derives from the ancient term "Meleretum", which meant a place of apple trees, later modified to Villa Sclavorum. Over the centuries, the village gradually changed its name to the present-day Santa Maria la Longa, named after the church that represents the heart of the community.
The history of Santa Maria la Longa
This area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as demonstrated by the numerous archaeological finds found on site. Over the centuries, Santa Maria la Longa had different owners, including noble families who built numerous villas on the territory. In the eighteenth century, the village fell under the dominion of the Habsburgs, remaining there until the end of the First World War.
The wonders of Santa Maria la Longa
Among the wonders of Santa Maria la Longa, the noble villas scattered throughout the territory, and the churches stand out, a testimony to the rich history of this municipality. The ancient church of San Giovanni Battista, located in Mereto di Capitolo, dates back to the sixteenth century and has been renovated over the centuries. Other noteworthy churches are the church of Santa Maria Assunta, the church of Sant'Antonio Abate, and the church of San Floriano.
But it is not only architecture that makes this municipality unique: visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the territory, on foot or by bike, immersed in the colors of agricultural cultivation and the beauty of green spaces.
Traditions and gastronomy
Santa Maria la Longa is also known for its traditional festivals, especially during the summer. In particular, the festival of Madonna di Campagna, held in July, attracts visitors from all over the region for its unique atmosphere. Local cuisine offers delicacies typical of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, such as cheeses, cured meats, and the renowned San Daniele ham. Traditional dishes of the territory include gnocchi, jota (a soup of vegetables and beans), and risotto with porcini mushrooms.
Conclusions
Santa Maria la Longa represents a true hidden treasure of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, which offers visitors the opportunity to admire the beauty of nature and history in a territory rich in traditions and gastronomic delights. Here you can experience the perfect union of architecture, culture, and territory, making a visit to this municipality unique.
