In the heart of the Boite Valley, nestled among the majestic peaks of the Belluno Dolomites,

lies Cibiana di Cadore, a mountain village that stands out for its extraordinary artistic and cultural heritage. Known as the painted village, Cibiana is a hidden gem of the Cadore region, where natural beauty harmoniously blends with human creativity.

Murals and Memory: an Open-Air Museum

Cibiana di Cadore has reinvented itself through art. Starting in the 1980s, thanks to a visionary cultural project, the village turned its houses into true canvases. Today, more than 50 murals decorate the façades of homes, each one telling a local story—scenes of daily life, ancient trades, historical episodes, and folklore passed down through generations.

Artists from around the world have interpreted the collective memory of the village in a variety of styles and techniques, creating a visual journey that guides visitors through narrow streets and old neighborhoods, in a continuous dialogue between past and present. Each mural is accompanied by a descriptive plaque that explains its meaning and historical context, enriching the experience.

Authenticity and Alpine Tradition

Walking through Cibiana feels like stepping back in time. Narrow cobbled alleys, stone-and-wood houses with traditional shingled roofs, barns, and haylofts tell the story of an alpine civilization deeply connected to the rhythms of nature and rural life. The village still follows the flow of the seasons, offering a rare example of cultural continuity.

Scattered along the way are small, centuries-old churches like San Lorenzo, and ancient stone fountains that once served as vital community gathering points. Every corner of the village speaks of a strong local identity—rooted in pride, resilience, and a profound connection with the surrounding land.

Nature and Dolomitic Landscapes

Situated at around 1,025 meters above sea level, Cibiana is surrounded by lush, unspoiled nature. From its panoramic points, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views over the Val di Zoldo, Mount Antelao—known as the “King of the Dolomites”—and the nearby Monte Rite, which can be reached via a scenic road or well-marked hiking trails.

The landscape invites exploration, with routes suitable for all levels: from easy forest walks to more demanding treks leading to mountain passes, alpine huts, and high-altitude refuges. In summer, the meadows bloom with colorful wildflowers, while birdsong and mountain streams provide a peaceful soundtrack.

Monte Rite and the Museum in the Clouds

One of the area’s most fascinating attractions is the “Museum in the Clouds”, located in a former military fort on Monte Rite at 2,181 meters above sea level. The museum is part of the Messner Mountain Museum network, curated by renowned mountaineer Reinhold Messner. It houses a permanent exhibition exploring the relationship between humans and mountains, with artworks, historical photographs, and immersive displays. From the panoramic terrace, visitors can enjoy one of the most stunning views of the entire Dolomite range.

A Timeless Mountain Village

Cibiana di Cadore is not just a place to visit—it is a place to experience slowly. It speaks through its painted walls, time-worn stones, and wide, silent landscapes. Each season brings a new character to the village: in autumn, it is cloaked in warm, golden hues; in winter, it transforms into a quiet, snow-covered fairytale; in spring, the woods and pastures come back to life; and in summer, light and fragrance fill the air.

Within the UNESCO-listed Dolomite region, Cibiana offers a unique and authentic glimpse into alpine life, where art, nature, and memory come together in quiet harmony.