Castelfranco is withoutdoubt one of the finest walled towns in the Veneto and looks pretty much as itdid when the walls were built at the end of the 12th century. It isalso the birthplace of the Renaissance artist Giorgione, about whom we know verylittle and can only definitely attribute six paintings, one of which, theMadonna, is here in the cathedral. The cathedral also has some frescoes byVeronese and other Venetian School painters. A short drive will bring you toAsolo, one of the most charming small towns in the Veneto and long a favouritewith artists and writers. Its nickname of the city of a hundred horizons refersto its magnificent position with views across to the foothills of theDolomites. One of the first streets you will come to is the Via Browning, namedin honour of Robert Browning, who was one of the many famous visitors and whoselast work, ‘Asolando’ was written here. Another famous resident was the actressIsabella Duse, whose tempestuous love life caused her to seek refuge here. Thewhole town is a delight to wander around and has some lovely shops andgalleries as well as a museum and castle and a top-rate restaurant and hotel,the Villa Cipriani. Finally, visit the Villa Barbaro nearby, one of Palladio’sfinest villas, with frescoes by Veronese.
