Valbelluna

Valbelluna is a geographic and cultural region in the province of Belluno, Veneto, in northern Italy. It covers the central-western portion of the Belluno valley and is named after the nearby city of Belluno. The area features a range of landscapes, from river plains to the foothills of the Dolomites, and is shaped by rivers such as the Piave and its tributaries.

The region includes several municipalities, with Feltre serving as its historic and economic core. Other towns commonly associated with Valbelluna include Mel, Limana, and Pedavena, among others that contribute to the valley’s rural and urban character. The valley has long served as a crossroads linking Alpine communities with trade routes toward the Veneto plains and the Adriatic coast.

Historically, Valbelluna has roots in ancient settlement and developed through medieval and early modern periods under various powers, ultimately becoming part of the Veneto region. Its architectural heritage includes well-preserved historic centers, churches, and civic buildings that reflect a blend of medieval and Renaissance influences, particularly in Feltre’s town center.

Economy in contemporary times combines agriculture, small-scale manufacturing, crafts, and tourism. The landscape supports outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and winter sports in the surrounding mountains. The Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park lies to the north, contributing to conservation and nature-based tourism in the broader area. Valbelluna remains a distinctive identity within Belluno, presenting a mix of Alpine heritage, rural life, and cultural heritage in northeastern Italy.