Fontecchio
Fontecchio is one of the most visually stunning villages perched along the ancient Tratturo Magno, the main shepherding route. Its urban layout dates back to the Middle Ages, evident in the traditional architecture with narrow cobbled streets, portals in the city walls, limestone buildings, and a central square that features a fascinating fourteenth-century fountain. The village is also home to several noteworthy monuments.
The Fountain of Fontecchio, a historic structure dating back to the 14th century, stands on a circular base with a polygonal basin adorned with fourteen semi-columns. Positioned below the level of the square, the site includes a fountain and tanks traditionally used so animals could get a drink. Additionally, it features a frescoed shrine that depicts the ‘Madonna dell’Uccellino,’ showing a Madonna with a small child.
The clock tower, built way back in the thirteenth century, is embedded in the city walls that used to defend the village against attacks. It features a clock with a traditional Italian dial, one of the oldest of its kind still existing today.
The fortified palace of the Corvi Barons ranks among the most significant noble residences in the Aterno Valley. The palace winds around a sixteenth-century loggia, which originally enclosed a Roman-era cistern. According to oral tradition, Marchesa Corvi ended the 1648 siege of Fontecchio by Spanish troops, famously killing the leader of the invaders with a spear thrown from the top of this very building.
The Convent of San Francesco stands on a site that likely housed a sacred building during Roman times. The complex, built around a central cloister adorned with columns and capitals of the loggia, was constructed in 1268 and completed in the 16th century.
The Stiffe
Caves
The Stiffe Caves are a complex of karst caves formed by the resurgence of an underground river that resurfaces at the top of a lush gorge overlooking the village of Stiffe. Inside the mountain lies an underground world full of stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing the patient artistry of nature. The whole scene is surreal and mysterious, with rooms bearing evocative names: the “Hall of Silence,” the “Hall of the Waterfall,” and the “Hall of Concretion,” which culminate in a large pool of water known as the Black Lake. This is followed by a spectacular 25 meter high waterfall. These caves are a favorite of those who travel to the area.
L'AQUILA
Aquila is a city steeped in history and culture. One of its most memorable sites is the Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, built in the 13th century at the request of the hermit Pietro da Morrone, who was later crowned pope on August 29, 1294. It remains a pilgrimage destination and was the site of the first Jubilee in history in 1300. The Fountain of 99 Spouts is another of the city’s most recognizable symbols. Designed by architect Tancredi da Pentima in the second half of the 13th century, it is a splendid example of ancient hydraulic ingenuity. Water gushes from stone masks that, according to legend, represent the ninety-nine centers that participated in the founding of the city.
Other monuments worth visiting include the Spanish Fort, a massive fortress built in the 16th century during Spanish rule, and the Basilica of San Bernardino, an extraordinary example of Renaissance architecture.
Aquila embraces not only its past but also its present and future. MAXXI L’Aquila, the center dedicated to modern and contemporary art, hosts exhibitions and cultural events of international significance. Finally, MUNDA (Museo Nazionale d’Abruzzo) is an essential stop for those who wish to learn more about Abruzzo’s history, art, and culture.
BOMINACO
Just fifteen minutes from Fontecchio, you can reach Bominaco, an ancient village home to a unique abbey complex. Dating back to the 8th century, the Oratory of San Pellegrino is a rectangular hall covered by a pointed barrel vault. The Oratory houses spectacular frescoes from the Abruzzi school, dating from 1263. These are among the largest and most intact abbeys of the period, depicting Gospel scenes and one of the oldest monastic calendars preserved to this day. At the top of the hill, Bominaco Castle, a medieval structure steeped in history and mystery, overlooks the Navelli Plateau below.
ALTOPIANO
DI NAVELLI
The village of Navelli is a small medieval center with narrow streets, stone houses, and palaces that create an atmosphere suspended in time. Navelli overlooks the plateau of the same name, which is world famous for its saffron cultivation, a tradition handed down through generations. The harvesting period for this precious spice, a symbol of the Abruzzo region of L’Aquila, takes place every October. Even today, families gather in the fields for this occasion, then meet in their homes to extract the prized stigmas from the flowers, drying and flavoring them by the heat of burning fireplaces. The plateau is dotted with gorgeous little towns, including the villages of Caporciano and San Pio delle Camere, both topped by ancient castles.
TIRINO
VALLEY
The Aquilan landscape is extraordinarily varied. In the area between the villages of Ofena and Capestrano, the scenery changes dramatically. The unique climate here makes the area ideal for cultivating grapes and olive trees, creating a Mediterranean oasis surrounded by mountains. In this area, the famous Capestrano Warrior was discovered in 1934. This majestic limestone sculpture, dating back to the 6th century B.C., is considered one of the greatest examples of Italic art. The wonderful village of Capestrano boasts religious and civil architecture, including the Abbey of San Pietro ad Oratorium and the Piccolomini Castle. At the foot of the village, three springs of crystal-clear water emerge from the earth, giving birth to the Tirino River. This natural paradise is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, horseback riding, kayaking, and canoeing.
Gran Sasso National Park and Monti della Laga
Gran Sasso National Park and Monti della Laga are protected areas of priceless natural value, rich in unique flora and fauna. This expansive park is a treasure trove of biodiversity and habitats that are home to many rare and endangered species. You simply can’t miss the incredible views of the Campo Imperatore plateau. Crowned by towering mountains, it reaches over 2,000 meters in altitude at its highest point. During the summer months, the pastures bloom and the mountains reflect in the blue sky, while in winter, Campo Imperatore transforms into a skier’s paradise. The Gran Sasso d’Italia massif stands dominates the Abruzzo horizon. Climbing the magnificent Corno Grande is an exciting challenge for experienced or beginning mountaineers alike. From the highest peak in the Apennines, the views are simply breathtaking. Featuring alpine lakes, refuges, bivouacs, and small valleys, this majestic mountain range offers ideal hiking opportunities for adventurers of all levels.
villages of Gran Sasso
Getting lost among the mountain villages of Gran Sasso is a rejuvenating experience for the spirit. The ancient Castle of Rocca Calascio is a spectacular 12th-century fortification, among the tallest in Europe. It represents one of the greatest icons of the Abruzzo region. Its strategic position allowed it to guard the movement of flocks during transhumance. Santo Stefano di Sessanio is a mountain village known for its stone architecture and rustic charm. This small town is dedicated to preserving local traditions, particularly the cultivation of lentils, and boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It is an excellent place to enjoy traditional Abruzzo cuisine and discover local crafts. On the slopes of Campo Imperatore, at more than 1,300 meters above sea level, lies Castel del Monte, known as the capital of shepherds. Due to its unspoiled nature and spectacular landscapes, this village has been chosen several times as a location for film shoots, even by international directors.
