 Venzone itself was first mentioned in a 923 deed as "Clausas de Albiciones", later as "Avenzone", and called "Venzone" in a 1001 document issued by Emperor Otto III.In 1077 it became part of the newly established Patria del Friuli and the ruling Patriarchs of Aquileia exercised control over the important trade route into the Alps.About 1200 the patriarchs enfeoffed the Venzone estates to the Mels noble family residing at Mels Castle near Udine (progenitors of the House of Colloredo-Mansfeld).