I casoni di Valle

The lagoon huts of Comacchio preserve the memory of a world suspended between water and sky. These dwellings were divided into two types: the fishing huts, inhabited by the vallanti, the fishermen who used the traditional lavoriero to catch fish, and the guard stations, where the guardians of the lagoons lived. The latter had the task of surveilling the stretch of water and protecting it from “fiocinini”, poachers who, armed with harpoons, ventured out at night in search of the precious fish of the lagoons. Today, those casoni tell stories of men, hard work, and silence.

I casoni di Valle

The lagoon huts of Comacchio preserve the memory of a world suspended between water and sky. These dwellings were divided into two types: the fishing huts, inhabited by the vallanti, the fishermen who used the traditional lavoriero to catch fish, and the guard stations, where the guardians of the lagoons lived. The latter had the task of surveilling the stretch of water and protecting it from “fiocinini”, poachers who, armed with harpoons, ventured out at night in search of the precious fish of the lagoons. Today, those casoni tell stories of men, hard work, and silence.

First Step: Casone Donnabona

An ancient guard station connected to the mainland by a wooden bridge. This casone was home to the lagoon guards who were tasked with protecting the nearby waters from frequent fish theft by poachers. Its distinctive name (literally “good woman” or “attractive woman”) derives from popular folklore: it is said that some women would offer themselves to the guards to cheer them up during their long working days. The hut is open to the public at weekends from March to October.

Casone Donnabona

Second Step: Casone Fosse

Located near Oasi Valle Zavelea, where the waters are fresh or slightly brackish, Casone Fosse is only visible from the outside. Around the same area, there is a watchtower from which you can go birdwatching and quietly observe the birdlife of the lagoons, including herons, black-winged stilts, and flamingos.

Casone Fosse