Castles around Arba are situated in a region characterized by historical sites and varied landscapes, including small villages and wooded areas. The area features structures from the early Middle Ages, showcasing Romanesque-Gothic architecture and defensive fortifications. Visitors can explore remnants of ancient castles and significant religious buildings that reflect the region's cultural heritage. These sites are often found amidst natural settings, offering views of the surrounding terrain.
Last updated: August 23, 2026
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Recently renovated, fine structure and beautiful view
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Highly visible from the plain, the Toppo castle, dating back to around 1100 AD, created a belt of manors on the Pordenone foothills.
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The façade is adorned with seven oculi and is extremely sober. The symbolic number seven recalls several texts of the Bible, first and foremost the lamb with "seven horns and seven eyes" from the Apocalypse of John. Two of the seven oculi, walled up in 1858, were reopened in 2011. The north side of the Cathedral, on Piazza del Duomo The main entrance is not the one on the façade, but the portal built on the northern façade, which overlooks Piazza Duomo. This was built in 1376 by Zenone da Campione and was originally reserved for the entrance of lords. Interior The Pordenone - Conversion of Saul - Organ door. The large organ, in the central nave The interior consists of three naves. In the central nave, second span, there is the Renaissance organ relocated here in 1981 after the restoration work following the earthquake in Friuli. The original instrument, a 1515 work by Bernardino Vicentino from Venice, had been lost over the centuries and was restored by Francesco Zanin using period materials and methods. It is used for liturgy, concerts and numerous recordings. The chest, among the oldest in the world, is decorated with canvases and panels painted by Pordenone in 1525. The organ doors contain three depictions: Assumption of Mary (closed doors); Fall of Simon Magus (open door on the left); Conversion of Saul (open door on the right). In the parapet of the choir there are five panels with the Stories of the Virgin, while in the lateral spaces some Pages are depicted. Presbytery The presbytery is decorated with a cycle of fourteenth-century frescoes, clearly derived from the lesson that Vitale da Bologna had left in the cathedral of Udine. The unknown author is cited as the Master of the Pavilions and his works date back to the period 1350-1380. The right wall is decorated with stories from the Old Testament: Master of the Pavilions - Susanna bathing. Creation of Adam and Eve Expulsion from Paradise Adam's Work Killing of Abel Lameus kills Cain Noah's Ark Sacrifice of Isaac Jews in the desert Capture of Jericho David and Goliath Death of Absalom Return of Tobias and Sarah Susanna bathing King Solomon Still life On the left wall, instead, there are stories from the life of Christ, derived from the New Testament: Master of the Pavilions - Stories of Christ. Nativity Adoration of the Shepherds Presentation at the Temple Flight into Egypt Massacre of the Innocents Christ among the Doctors Wedding at Cana Expulsion of the Merchants from the Temple Transfiguration Entry into Jerusalem Prayer in Gethsemane Capture of Christ Flagellation Ascent to Calvary The back wall is dominated by the dramatic scene of the Crucifixion. Crypt The burial ark of Walterpertoldo. The lower church consists of five rooms, one of which has recently been closed. The northern chapel contains the burial ark of Walterpertoldo, who died in 1382, lord of Spilimbergo and podestà of Treviso. Until 1964 the ark was on display in the square next to the church, and was then placed in the crypt. Chapel of the Rosary Chapel of the Rosary - the painting Presentation at the Temple with inserts by Gasparo Narvesa. Chapel of the Rosary - Giovanni Martini - Presentation at the Temple. The chapel is dominated by the altarpiece Presentation at the Temple by Giovanni Martini (1503), with a frame between the vegetal intrigues the Mysteries of the Rosary and the Madonna of the Rosary with the Child Jesus and Saint Dominic, work of Gasparo Narvesa (1626-1627).
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The church was commissioned by the lord of Spilimbergo Walterpertoldo in 1284 and the first stone was laid on October 4 of the same year. Construction continued until about 1359, although the cathedral was consecrated only in 1453. The irregularity of the building plan is due, more than to rethinking or remaking, to the exploitation of existing structures and the conformation of the territory. In fact, the building was built leaning against a wall, and the bell tower was built on a portal of the same.
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beautiful square, with a cobbled ground
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fantastic road, shame about the asphalt not perfect for high speeds. between 20 and 25 km/h it's perfect
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One of many castle ruins in the foothills of the surrounding mountains. Very well restored with information signs. From the ruins there is a beautiful view towards Val Colvera di Jof and far into the Friulian plain. The ascent is on a forest path, partly with coarser rock. It is worth a visit, impressively illuminated in the dark.
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Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore, from 1284. The beautiful cathedral of Spilimbergo gives the city an air of medieval history.
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The region around Arba features several significant historical sites. Among them, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore (Spilimbergo) stands out as a valuable example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture. Another must-see is Toppo Castle, a castle ruin offering panoramic views. You can also explore the Interior of Castello di Polcenigo for insights into castle structure, and the Ruins of the Castle of Mizza, which was likely a defensive bastion.
Yes, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore (Spilimbergo) is categorized as family-friendly. Its impressive Romanesque-Gothic architecture and historical significance can be an engaging experience for families. Exploring the nearby castle of Spilimbergo also adds to the appeal.
The castles and related historical buildings around Arba primarily showcase Romanesque-Gothic architecture. A prime example is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore (Spilimbergo), built between 1284 and 1359, which is considered one of the most valuable examples of this style in Friuli. You'll observe features like sloping roofs, adorned facades, and intricate portals.
Absolutely. Toppo Castle, for instance, offers a beautiful panorama of the Borgo di Toppo. The Ruins of the Castle of Mizza, located at the highest point of a ridge, also provide scenic views of the surrounding area.
The region offers various outdoor activities. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes, including easy to difficult options. You can find routes like the 'Castello di Toppo – Villa Toppo Wassermann loop' for an easy ride, or more challenging ones like 'Passo Rest and Lake Tramonti Loop' for road cycling. Mountain biking trails are also available, such as 'Old Castle of Maniago – View of Torrente Cellina loop'. You can explore these and more in the Cycling around Arba, Road Cycling Routes around Arba, and MTB Trails around Arba guides.
While specific 'easy walking routes' directly around every castle aren't detailed, the area around Toppo Castle involves a short walk through the woods to reach the ruins. Many cycling routes, particularly the 'easy' rated ones, can also be adapted for pleasant walks, such as the 'Castello di Toppo – Villa Toppo Wassermann loop' mentioned in the cycling guide.
Visitors appreciate the historical depth and the scenic beauty. Many enjoy exploring the remnants of ancient structures like Toppo Castle, noting the suggestive atmosphere and the beautiful panoramas. The architectural details of sites like the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore (Spilimbergo), with its frescoes and historical elements, are also highly valued.
While specific parking details for each castle are not provided, historical sites in regions like Arba typically have designated parking areas nearby or in the closest village. For example, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore (Spilimbergo) is located in an area with little traffic, suggesting accessibility for visitors.
The guide does not specify a 'best time' to visit, but generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring historical sites and outdoor activities in regions like Arba, avoiding the peak heat of summer and potential cold of winter. These seasons provide comfortable temperatures for walking and sightseeing.
While not explicitly labeled 'hidden gems,' the Ruins of the Castle of Mizza, being a remnant of a defensive bastion at a high point, might offer a more secluded and less-trafficked experience compared to more prominent sites. Exploring the internal arrangement of the Interior of Castello di Polcenigo also provides a unique, detailed look into castle life.
The castles and historical sites around Arba provide a rich glimpse into the region's past, dating back to the early Middle Ages. Structures like Toppo Castle are believed to be of Lombard origin, showcasing how defensive fortresses were constructed in that era. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore (Spilimbergo) reflects centuries of religious and artistic development, with art from the 14th to 18th centuries.


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