Caorle
Madonna dell'Angelo
The Church of Our Lady of the Angel, built around the year 1000, is located in a beautiful position on the Levante beach, also known as ‘Madonnina Beach’. According to legend, fishermen found the statue of the Holy Virgin floating in the sea on a marble block. The present church, consecrated in 1751, replaced the previous one and is dedicated to the archangel St Michael and the Blessed Virgin of the Angel. The sanctuary door was elevated to a holy door in 2016. Inside, there is a statue of the Virgin and the chapel of the crucifix with the ancient base found in the sea. Every year, on the second Sunday in July, there is the Coronation Festival with a procession and burning of the bell tower. Every five years, there is a procession at sea with fishermen’s boats.
The Cathedral and Bell Tower of Caorle
The Cathedral of Caorle, dedicated to St Stephen Protomartyr, is one of the main attractions of the Old Town. Built in the 14th century, it features an imposing neoclassical façade that stands out against the backdrop of the surrounding narrow streets. Inside, the Cathedral preserves precious works of art, including paintings and sculptures of historical and artistic value.
Next to the Cathedral stands the Bell Tower, a tower approximately 48 metres high, which is one of the most recognisable symbols of Caorle. Built in Romanesque-Gothic style in the 12th century and subsequently remodelled in later periods, the bell tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the surrounding lagoon. Its imposing structure and privileged position make it an important landmark for visitors exploring the historical centre of Caorle and its peculiarity that it is slightly inclined.
ScoglieraViva
ScoglieraViva is an international art event that takes place along the cliff leading to the Madonna dell’Angelo Sanctuary in Caorle. During this event, artists from all over the world create works sculpted directly on the stone, transforming a pile of rocks into a veritable open-air art gallery. The event has become a tradition over the years, attracting both tourists and residents and contributing to enriching Caorle’s artistic and cultural heritage.
The beach
The beach of Caorle stretches for over 15 km, passing through the various hamlets of the town such as Porto Santa Margherita, Lido Altanea and Duna Verde. It is characterised by fine golden-coloured sand and a crystal-clear sea with shallow and gradually sloping seabed. Along the coast, bathing establishments offer comfort and comprehensive services, including beach umbrellas, sunbeds, showers, cabins, children’s play areas, entertainment and lifeguard services, as well as pedalo and canoe hire. In some stretches, it is possible to find free beaches, ideal for those who wish to enjoy the sea in total autonomy.
The Laguna
The Caorle Laguna, located between the Tagliamento and Livenza rivers, is a unique coastal environment in Veneto. The lagoon oasis of Valle Vecchia offers over 4 km of sandy shoreline and an agrarian hinterland characterised by sandy and clay soils with frequent infiltration of brackish water. This area, known as ‘Valle Vecchia natura nuova’, is a refuge for numerous migratory birds and marshland fauna, ideal for bird-watching and nature walks along trails and cycle paths. Its rich variety of habitats, including sand dunes, gentle marshes and littoral pine forests, creates an evocative and unique environment to explore and admire.
Casoni of Caorle
The casoni of Caorle, typical fishermen’s dwellings in the lagoon, are a valuable historical heritage of the region. These characteristic constructions still resist more than 15 centuries after Attila’s invasion and were shelters for families during the war, when many inhabitants took refuge in the lagoon to escape bombing. With the end of the war and the change in economic activities, fishing turned to the sea and young people found work in other sectors, leading to the gradual reduction of lagoon settlements and, consequently, the casoni. Today, there are a limited number of these buildings, but they are an important symbol of local history and culture.
Historic Centre
The historical centre of Caorle is the ancient and picturesque heart of the city. It is characterised by narrow cobbled streets flanked by colourful Venetian-style buildings. It is an ideal place to stroll and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of Caorle, discovering charming corners, small taverns and traditional shops. During the summer, the historic centre comes alive with visitors flocking to the main streets such as Rio Terrà (‘Rio Interrato’ – where the river once flowed), enjoying the charm of the local architecture, the flavours of Venetian cuisine and the lively day and evening atmosphere.