Pontebba, Italian comune
Pontebba is a small mountain town in the Tarvisiano area of Friuli Venezia Giulia region. It sits close to the border between Italy and Austria, with buildings and the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore positioned around the Pella River valley.
The area has been inhabited since the second century BC and was part of the Roman Empire. After Rome fell, the territory was ruled by the Patriarchate of Aquileia until the 15th century.
The name Pontebba may derive from the Pontebbana stream or from an ancient bridge that once stood in the area. Over centuries, residents have developed traditions that blend medieval and Austrian influences, visible in local customs and the town's appearance.
The town sits on a railway line, making it easy to travel to and from other places in the region. It has hotels and small bed and breakfasts for visitors, and local residents are happy to share tips about hiking and other outdoor activities.
Until World War I, the border between Italy and Austria ran directly through Pontebba, still visible in old map names like Pontebba Veneta and Pontebbana. A memorial stone marks this divided past at the location.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
