Sovizzo among Hills, Villas and Regional Cuisine

Sovizzo reveals its character on several levels: the hills rise to an altitude of 200 metres, while villas, churches, archaeological remains and paths through the landscape reveal the different facets of the area. Here, nature observation combines with cultural history and regional cuisine.

Hills, Water and Natural Contrasts

The hills of Sovizzo consist predominantly of sedimentary limestone. They formed between 40 and 20 million years ago in a marine environment, were subsequently uplifted and shaped by erosion. In the hills, wooded areas alternate with broad clearings. Moisture-loving plants grow on the cooler, damp slopes and in the valleys, while various heat-loving species are found in more exposed areas.

The waterways are also part of this landscape. The Retrone rises in the plain of Sovizzo, which drains eastwards. The Mezzarolo flows into the Onte, and the Onte into the Valdiezza.

Villas, Church and Archaeology

Villa Bissari-Curti in the centre of Sovizzo was built in the second half of the 16th century and later expanded, among other additions, with a scenographic theatre in the ancient style. Villa Curti has a 30,000-square-metre park with restored frescoes, historic statues made of Vicenza stone and an open-air amphitheatre containing two early Christian urns.

Another historical focal point is Sovizzo Colle. The church there was incorporated into a fortification built in the Middle Ages, which was destroyed in the 13th century. The church contains 17th-century artworks as well as sculptures by Marinali. The megalithic funerary and ritual complex from the Copper Age has been preserved in situ and is visible from outside as a permanent archaeological area.

Exploring on Foot and by Bike

A route through Vigo and to the castles of Giulietta and Romeo leads to the Spurghe, passages enclosed by rocks in a wild and impressive natural landscape. Opened in 2018, the Sovizzo–Creazzo cycle path follows the course of the Retrone and offers a route for pedestrians and cycling enthusiasts.

Festivals and Flavours

The Feast of Madonna del Rosario on the first Sunday in October is part of the local character. As the community festival of Sovizzo Colle, it combines religious celebrations with leisure and gastronomic activities. Particularly characteristic are the traditional Bìgoli co’ l’arna, pasta with duck sauce.

The cultivation of spelt also offers a culinary perspective on Sovizzo: from September onwards, local bakeries, pizzerias, pastry shops, delicatessens and restaurants should offer products and traditional dishes made with and featuring spelt grown in Sovizzo for visitors to sample. Interest in Sovizzo thus extends from its geologically formed hills through architectural and art history to paths, festivals and regional products.

More Destinations

More destinations: Altissimo, Fara Vicentino, Radi, Castegnero, Lumignano, Breganze, San Floriano, Cornedo Vicentino

To the higher-level travel overview: Vicenza.