Abruzzo Region

Abruzzo is situated at the centre of the Italian peninsula to the east of Lazio. It is bordered on the west by the Apennines and on the east by 150 kilometres of coastline on the Adriatic. It is one of the most mountainous regions in Italy. The Corno Grande in the Gran Sasso massif, at 2,914 metres, is the highest summit in the Apennines.

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The rivers are numerous and although many of them are seasonal there are many that are active all year round, even during the hottest part of the summer. The two largest rivers are the Pescara and the Sangro and these two, along with many smaller ones, flow constantly throughout all the seasons.

Natural Beauty: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

One of the most striking features of Abruzzo is its abundance of natural beauty. The region boasts three national parks (Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, Majella National Park, and Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park), preserving its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park: Home to the highest peak in the Apennines, Corno Grande, this park is a paradise for hikers and mountaineers. The rugged terrain, lush forests, and pristine lakes make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Majella National Park: Known as the "Wild Heart of Italy," this park features deep valleys, impressive gorges, and the Majella massif. It's a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with a chance to spot the elusive Apennine wolf and Marsican brown bear.

Marsican Brown Bear

Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park: This park is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, with the rare Apennine chamois and golden eagle among its inhabitants. It's also home to the picturesque Barrea Lake, perfect for a tranquil boat ride.

Abruzzo's Rich Cultural Heritage

Beyond its natural wonders, Abruzzo boasts a rich cultural heritage that reflects its historical significance. The region's history can be traced back to ancient times, with influences from the Roman, Byzantine, and Norman periods shaping its character.

L'Aquila: The regional capital, L'Aquila, is a city steeped in history. Its historic center is a captivating blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The 13th-century Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio is a must-visit, known for its stunning rose window and historical significance.

Sulmona: Birthplace of the Roman poet Ovid, Sulmona is renowned for its beautiful medieval architecture, including the impressive aqueduct and the Church of Santa Maria della Tomba. Don't forget to try the world-famous "confetti" candies made from sugared almonds, a local specialty.

Chieti: Another historical gem, Chieti boasts archaeological sites, museums, and the picturesque Cathedral of San Giustino. The city's archaeological museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient Italy.

The Culinary Delights of Abruzzo

Abruzzo's cuisine is a testament to its rich agricultural traditions and proximity to both the sea and mountains. Expect hearty, flavorful dishes that showcase the region's love for simple yet delicious food.

Arrosticini: These skewers of tender lamb or mutton, seasoned with olive oil and rosemary, are a beloved Abruzzese specialty. They're often enjoyed in traditional "fornacelle" restaurants.

Pasta: Abruzzo is renowned for its pasta, with dishes like "pappardelle al cinghiale" (wide noodles with wild boar sauce) and "spaghetti alla chitarra" (square-cut spaghetti) taking center stage. The quality of locally-produced pasta is unmatched.

Seafood: Given its coastline, Abruzzo boasts an array of fresh seafood dishes. "Brodetto all'abruzzese," a spicy fish soup, is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo: Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the region's wine production, with Montepulciano d'Abruzzo being the most famous variety. The wine pairs perfectly with the local cuisine.

The climate is varied: In the spring and summer it is warm, dry and comfortable on the coast and on the hills inland. In the autumn and winter it is dry and cold but still pleasant on the coast and hills. In the mountains it is dry and cold.

Major roads and railway lines link the region to the south, west and north of Italy and the rest of Europe.

Over the last 10 years, tourism has increased, mostly among Italians and other Europeans. Abruzzo has a wealth of castles and medieval towns, especially near the town of L'Aquila, which was the scene of a devasting earthquake in 2009. The area is also known by the nickname of "Abruzzoshire", by analogy with the "Chiantishire" nickname sometimes used to refer to the Chianti area of Tuscany, but Abruzzo is still off the beaten path for most visitors to Italy.

The region has 21 ski areas with 368 kilometres of runs, all within a few hours of Rome. The most developed resort is Roccaraso, followed by Campo Felice, and Campo Imperatore. Located in the highest region of the Apennines, these ski areas are at heights nearly comparable to many Alpine resorts. Because of their proximity to the Adriatic and winter precipitation patterns, they often have more snow than the Alps. Abruzzo also is popular for cross country skiing, especially on the high plain of Campo Imperatore in the Gran Sasso as well as the Piana Grande in the Majella.

Abruzzo is home to the Italian peninsula's highest peak, Corno Grande, and Europe's southernmost glacier, Il Calderone. The Corno Grande and its neighboring Corno Piccolo provide a range of climbing opportunities from mountain hikes suitable for novices to sheer rock wall ascents suitable only for expert alpinists. Abruzzo's lesser known peaks, especially the gentler slopes of the Majella, offer climbers the opportunity to hike and climb in solitude.

Abruzzo's long sandy coastline is home to a many popular beach resorts, among them Vasto on Abruzzo's southern coast; mid-coast are Silvi Marina, whose sands are considered among the best in Italy, Giulianova, Francavilla al Mare and Pineto, and on Abruzzo's northern coast are Alba Adriatica and Martinsicuro.

Exploring Abruzzo: A Hidden Gem Revealed

Abruzzo, often overlooked by tourists, has much to offer those who seek an authentic Italian experience. Whether you're an outdoor adventurer, a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone looking to escape the crowds, Abruzzo has something for everyone.

From the rugged mountains to the pristine coastline, the region's natural beauty is breathtaking. Its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine add depth to the experience, making Abruzzo a destination that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Discover the hidden gem of Italy in Abruzzo, where tradition and natural wonders blend seamlessly to create a truly unforgettable experience.