Clauzetto: Archaeology, Panoramas and Local History

When planning your trip to Clauzetto, a range of interests can shape your choice: prehistoric archaeology, sweeping views, local history and regional cuisine. These themes can be distinguished by their specific features: the caves represent different periods, while the churchyard and route can be distinguished by their views and measurements. This can help you decide which focus you want your stay to have.

Archaeology and Museum

The Grotta del Rio Secco is one of the rare Middle Palaeolithic sites in Italy and Europe where clear evidence has been found of Neanderthals killing and eating bears. Its Neanderthal-era phases have been dated to between 49,000 and 42,000 years ago. The Museo della Grotta opened to the public in 2001 and displays palaeontological and archaeological remains, as well as fossils and minerals, including specimens from the local area.

The Grotta del Clusantin marks a different period. 14,000 years ago, it provided shelter for Epigravettian hunter-gatherers. Comparing the two caves highlights their different periods and uses: the Grotta del Rio Secco focuses on Neanderthal-era phases and evidence of interactions with bears, while the Grotta del Clusantin focuses on its use as a shelter. This distinguishes the caves not only as prehistoric sites in general, but also in terms of specific dates and their respective significance.

Views and Routes

The “Balcone del Friuli” viewpoint in Clauzetto overlooks the Friulian plain as far as the Adriatic, with the Euganean Hills to the west and the Istrian promontory to the east. If you choose to make the scenery the focus of your trip, this viewpoint offers a specific panorama to enjoy. Unlike the caves, the focus here is not on prehistoric times, but on views across the plain and coast to the named destinations in the west and east.

The churchyard of the Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Giacomo is considered one of Friuli’s most scenic spots and can be reached by a monumental staircase with 98 steps. The Route of St. Martin is a separate attraction: it begins in Clauzetto at the Church of San Giacomo. This easy route is 9.6 km long and includes 282 m of ascent. The steps describe access to the churchyard, while the distance and ascent characterize the route. This helps you distinguish between these different points of reference when planning your trip.

Wells and Regional Cuisine

Numerous old wells line the roads through Clauzetto and its hamlets. They once served to water animals and draw water; they were also places for gathering and social exchange. Their former function brought together practical needs and social interaction: the wells are part of the history of everyday life, not just landmarks to admire.

A regional food tradition is also part of Clauzetto’s story. Held in August, the Fieste da la Balote celebrates a traditional dish made with polenta and Montasio cheese or, more commonly, Asìno cheese. Asìno is given greater prominence than Montasio. Along with the wells, this theme offers a different perspective on local history from the prehistoric sites and the sweeping views from the Balcone del Friuli.

Discover more destinations: Sacile, Chions, Zoppola, Azzano Decimo, Vito D'asio, Aviano, Sesto Al Reghena and Andreis.

Go to the main travel overview: Pordenone.