Vodo Cadore
Discover Vodo di Cadore: a small Venetian town surrounded by the Dolomites
Vodo di Cadore, also known as Guódo in the Ladin language, is a town in the province of Belluno, Veneto. Despite its small size and a population of only 824 inhabitants, Vodo di Cadore is a popular tourist destination due to its privileged location in the middle Boite valley, at 910 meters above sea level, between the majestic peaks of Antelao and Pelmo.
Territory: between mountains and dairy farms
The territory of Vodo di Cadore boasts an unparalleled panoramic view of Antelao, thanks to its position on the south side of the mountain. Here you can find the striking crevice and an imposing descent from its highest point. The town extends over an area where you can find the peaks of Pelmo, Antelao and Mount Penna. Thanks to these peaks, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama. Among the most interesting destinations for hikers are the Gianpietro Talamini refuge and the Venezia refuge, at the foot of Pelmo, which are the base for its ascent. The Dolomites High Route n.1 and Alta Via n. 3 pass through the territory of Vodo di Cadore. Two dairy farms are also located in the territory, the Ciàuta and Rutorto dairy farms, where milk is processed to produce its derivatives.
Origin of the name
The toponym Vodo di Cadore seems to derive from the Latin word "vadum," meaning "ford" or "channel," due to the shape of the territory. However, some sources indicate that the name may be linked to the processing of linen and hemp, a traditional activity in Veneto.
Society: population evolution
The population of Vodo di Cadore has had a fluctuating trend from the 1960s until today, passing from the approximately 1,500 inhabitants of the war and post-war period to its current 824 inhabitants.
Monuments and places of interest
Among the most important monuments of Vodo di Cadore is the Church of Santa Lucia, which is the patron of the town. This church is one of the oldest in the area and features a Gothic architectural style. Another notable church is the Church of San Giovanni Battista in Vinigo, famous for the frescoes of the Tiziano Vecellio School and the works of the painters Francesco and Tommaso Vecellio.
Human geography: hamlets
Vinigo, also known as "The Dolomites terrace," is a hamlet of Vodo di Cadore located 1 km from the Alemagna state road 51, close to the village of Peaio and only 20 km from Cortina d'Ampezzo. With about 80 inhabitants, Vinigo is one of the oldest settlements in Cadore. It is characterized by historic buildings, such as the Church of San Giovanni Battista, declared a national monument since the early 1900s, which dates back to 1493 and features frescoes of the Tiziano Vecellio School. It is an ideal tourist destination for those seeking peace and tranquility, immersed in the Dolomites.
Vodo di Cadore is undoubtedly a town to discover for those who want to immerse themselves in the nature of the Dolomites and learn about the history and culture of the area. Thanks to its central location, it is also a good starting point for excursions and visits to nearby towns.
