In Veneto, there is an area often underestimated by tourists but rich in charm and hidden treasures, with poetic atmospheres that are sometimes hostile but always full of beauty.
A journey through Fratta Polesine, Rovigo, the Po Delta, and the surrounding areas is a unique experience where the past intertwines with the present and nature offers enchanting landscapes and moments of calmness. In this article, we will immerse ourselves in the wonders of this region, discovering places to visit, activities to do, and food to savor for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Venetian tradition.
As a base for our journey in Polesine, we choose Castelguglielmo. It’s a small town perfect for relaxing at the end of our days. Here, we are welcomed by Andrea. He’s the host of La Piccola Casa di Via Ricotti, an eco–sustainable and recently renovated accommodation that provides every comfort and has a small forest in front of it.
Our journey in Polesine. First stop: Fratta Polesine
Fratta Polesine, which dates back to the Roman era, has a captivating and extensive history. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll come across remnants of the past in every nook and cranny, from the ruins of ancient medieval walls to the Castle of Fratta, a testament to the centuries of domination and struggles that have shaped the area’s history. The Civic Museum, situated in the heart of the historical center, showcases valuable archaeological artifacts and artworks that narrate the rich cultural heritage of Fratta Polesine. The necropolises of Frattesina, one of Europe’s most significant protohistoric sites, are a must-see.
However, the village’s centerpiece is Villa Badoèr, also known as La Badoera. It’s a UNESCO heritage site, designed by the renowned architect Antonio Palladio.
Rovigo, a City with Ancient Roots
Rovigo is a city with ancient roots that date back to Roman times. Walking through its streets, you can admire historic buildings, elegant squares, and monuments that narrate the city’s thousand-year history. Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, with the Palazzo del Governo and the Donà Tower, is the pulsating heart of Rovigo. A visit to the Museum of the Great Rivers offers an engaging experience about the importance of rivers in the evolution of this region. The Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Succorso, with its octagonal Rotonda and the Longhena bell tower, is an attraction of great interest and a symbol of the city.
The Nature of Polesine, a Unique Territory Between Land and Water
Polesine is a unique territory characterized by the fusion of land and water. Crossed by the Po, Adige, and Brenta rivers, it is one of the most fertile regions in Italy, with enchanting river landscapes, marshes, and rice fields as far as the eye can see. The Regional Park of the Po Delta is an exceptional nature reserve and a paradise for nature lovers. Exploring its panoramic trails offers the opportunity to admire the numerous migratory birds that stop here and discover the rich flora and unique fauna. A boat trip along the canals of the Po Delta is a magical experience, allowing you to get closer to the natural beauty of this extraordinary area.
Local Culinary Traditions
A visit to these lands would be incomplete without savoring the local cuisine. Fratta Polesine, Rovigo, and the surrounding areas boast a gastronomic tradition of great value. From “bigoli” with duck to risotto with eels, but also mussels, clams, and various varieties of radicchio… There are many delicacies that delight the palate!
With its discreet charm and an extraordinary combination of history, nature, and culture, Polesine captivates the eyes and the heart. It is hard to forget the Po Delta’s landscapes, its people’s hospitality, and the discretion of Rovigo and the surrounding villages.
La Piccola Casa di Via Ricotti – Green House in Castelguglielmo, Province of Rovigo, Veneto, IT 
