Abruzzo in central Italy is one of the least populated regions in the country, though it spans over 10,000 square kilometres; nearly a third of it is covered by natural parks. Surely, the place is worth a visit, or many. After all, this mountainous region has plenty of jaw-dropping landscapes, picturesque villages, and ancient castles.
Here’s what travellers need to know about Abruzzo Italy.
Interesting Facts
The Abruzzo region comprises hundreds of municipalities. Most travellers will arrive first at L’Aquila, the capital city. It’s the best place to start exploring the province, as this Roman-era city is packed with attractions, including the Piazza del Duomo, the Basilica of San Bernardino, and the Gran Sasso National Park. Additionally, sweet-toothed visitors must try the traditional soft chocolate nugget, the “torrone tenero al cioccolato.”
However, the entire region hosts festivals all year round, with activities ranging from medieval fairs to snake handlers’ processions. Abruzzo is where tourists can taste Italian food at its finest because of the high quality of its produce, which results from its unique climate and soil. Although smaller than other regions, its wine production provides seven DOC designations, including Trebbiano, Montepulciano, and Sangiovese.
History lovers may be interested in the fact that people have been inhabiting Abruzzo since the Neolithic period, with the first settlements dating from 6,500 years ago. Unsurprisingly, it’s also a feast for those who love medieval architecture, art, and culture. The region’s vastness means visiting its main locations on a day trip is impossible. Still, some places are absolutely must-see, apart from L’Aquila. Learn more about them below.
Santo Stefano di Sessanio
Less than an hour by car from L’Aquila on a winding road surrounded by mountains, there’s Santo Stefano di Sessanio. This tiny rural village seems to have stopped in Renaissance times, when the place was mostly famous for its wool production. While a sizable part of its population emigrated in the 19th and 20th centuries, its ethnographic history remains alive.
Vasto
The mountainous region of Abruzzo stretches from the countryside to the Adriatic Sea, with hillside cities like Vasto providing unforgettable views of the ocean. The city was founded by the d’Avalos family during the Renaissance, and traces of their glory can still be found all over the place, like the Palazzo d’Avalos, the Napoletanean gardens, and the cloisters. The local fish soup, “Brodetto alla Vastese,” is a must-try for food lovers.
Trabocchi Coast
Speaking of coastlines, it’s impossible not to mention the Trabocchi Coast. The name derives from “traboccos,” fishing platforms stretching into the ocean. Nowadays, these platforms house restaurants serving the finest seafood dishes in Italy.
Sulmona
The birthplace of the famous Roman poet Ovid, Sulmona is surrounded by mountains and sculpted by history. It’s just an hour away from the city of Pescara, showcasing attractions like a functioning aqueduct from the 13th century, the Fontana del Vecchio built during the Renaissance period. The traditional sugary almonds, known as “confetti,” are artfully arranged to represent fruits and flowers.
