Palazzo Pivetta-Stefani

The majestic Pivetta palace (17th century), former residence of the Conti family, later acquired by the Pivetta-Stefani family, stands at the beginning of the descent of "Karèra" street. It is said that the patriot Pier Fortunato Calvi was hosted here for about ten days after the failure of the 1848-49 revolt in Cadore. Welcomed by Maria, wife of the noble Stefani and sister of his lieutenant Cadorin from Lorenzago di Cadore, he was forced to flee from a sudden Austrian raid, jumping from a balcony of the palace to escape, through "Karèra," towards Feltre. "Karèra" is the ancient carriageway that rises from Puner towards the center of Mel, wedged between massive walls, passing under two large arches, above which the Conti family built their palace in the 17th century. It was once entirely paved with cobblestones (like Roman roads). Remarkable is the capital at the end of "Karèra," where the inscription A.S.F.F.P.S.D. can be read, letters meaning “Antonio Sovilla had it made for his devotion.” Legend has it that a thief who had stolen money from the alms box had his right hand cut off on the spot. Continuing a few meters further, "Karèra" crosses "Čòpa" street and enters the main square, between the Town Hall and the Inn Cappello. According to some studies, which support the presence of a castle in the upper part of the current settlement, "Karèra" represented an access route in addition to the one to the north of the square and the one leading from the countryside beyond the city walls. Inconfoundable location captured in the shots of photographers, in wedding albums, and on Instagram!