Cadore

Cadore is a historic geographic region in northern Italy, located in the Veneto within the upper Piave valley in the Dolomites and primarily part of the province of Belluno. The area is drained by the Piave river and its tributaries, with several alpine valleys and towns scattered along the surrounding mountains. Its landscape is dominated by the pale rock faces and high pastures that characterize the Dolomites.

Historically, Cadore was part of the Republic of Venice until the late 18th century, later falling under the Austrian Empire and joining Italy in 1866. The Dolomites front of World War I passed through the area, leaving fortifications and memorials. The town of Pieve di Cadore served as a traditional administrative center and is notable as the birthplace of the painter Titian.

Key towns in Cadore include Pieve di Cadore, Calalzo di Cadore, Domegge di Cadore, Santo Stefano di Cadore, Auronzo di Cadore, San Vito di Cadore, and Vigo di Cadore. Cortina d'Ampezzo, at the eastern edge of the Dolomites, is one of the region's best-known winter resorts and is commonly associated with the broader Cadore area.

Cadore lies within the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009, recognized for its dramatic limestone formations, vertical cliffs, and extensive alpine habitats. The local economy is driven mainly by tourism—winter sports, hiking, and mountain scenery—along with forestry and small-scale manufacturing. Cultural heritage includes museums, churches, and connections to Titian, who is linked to Pieve di Cadore.