Sfruz
Sfurz: local potatoes and beautiful pottery stoves
A traditional Alpine village, Sfruz is one of the highest in the Val di Non valley, and is located on a lush plateau between Monte Roen and the Corno di Tres. Its ancient origins have been proved by archaeological findings, which have brought to light a number of traditional roof-tiled Roman graves.
Sfruz has kept its original layout, with its rural homes and noble buildings featuring stone portals, halls and timber superstructures as well as a few frescoes. The church stands opposite via Predaia and shows a number of interesting architectural features in the local tradition, including a portal from 1704 with a crest and an unusual lancet arch. An alto-rilievo (high-relief) of S. Barbara - patron saint of miners - is located at the top of the road, after the playground. Sfruz's parish church is dedicated to S. Agatha.
The Sfurz potato is well renowned. Furthermore, the town is also a bastion for a number of important traditional craftsman jobs, such as goldsmiths and wood carvers. Its large pottery stoves are both characteristic and highly original. They have been manufactured since the Renaissance when they were sold - under the guide of "master stove-makers" - in Austria, Tyrol and Lombardy.
The 12 Percorsi d'Anaunia pass through Sfruz. Featuring signposted hiking trails based on an ancient road leading from Rocchetta to Castel Thun, the 12 Percorsi give travellers the chance to explore the conifer and beech woods between Sfruz and Smarano.
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