Premariacco - Il Comune
Premariacco's origins can be traced back to the foundation of several fortified settlements in the area dating back to the first millennium B.C., the existence of which is confirmed by archaeological findings.
The origins of the placename are uncertain: some scholars believe the suffix "acco" is common to sites in Friuli where there was significant Celtic influence; others believe the term is of Latin origins and referable to the name of a local land owner. The proximity of the ancient "Forum Julii" influenced all the surrounding areas: Roman and Longobard graves are quite often discovered in Premariacco; moreover the area�s varied quadrilateral fabric, mapped out by the Romans using their �groma� (a line-of-sight surveying instrument) is still recognisable. Tradition has it that important historical figures were born in Premariacco.
The first, in chronological order, was Cornelius Gallus, warrior, poet and Latin literary man who lived at the beginning of the Christian era. The second, the most important in terms of fame and greatness, was Paulinus, Patriarch of Aquileia, born around 740 A.D. He was a very prominent figure, advisor to Charlemagne and papal representative at the Council of Acquisgrana.
Around the 11th century another Patriarch of Aquileia was born in Premariacco, Gerard. Another illustrious figure was Fiore dei Liberi, born around 1300 (in a house that still stands). He was a swordsman and fencing master, and almost certainly the inventor of the foil, a weapon that in his honour is included in the municipal coat of arms.