Abruzzo – L’Aquila Province: Mountains, Medieval Villages, and the Wild Heart of Abruzzo
The vast Province of L’Aquila forms the mountainous heart of the Abruzzo region. Dominated by the dramatic peaks of Gran Sasso d’Italia, this province contains some of the most spectacular landscapes in central Italy—high alpine plains, medieval villages, and vast protected parks where nature still reigns.
The provincial capital, L’Aquila, stands proudly within medieval walls at the foot of the Apennine Mountains. Known for its elegant Baroque and Renaissance architecture, the city has long served as the historic and administrative center of the region.
Yet beyond the city lies the true magic of the province: a network of ancient hilltop villages, mountain valleys, and historic fortresses that appear almost unchanged for centuries.
🏔️ A Province Defined by Mountains
Much of L’Aquila Province lies within the extraordinary Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, one of the largest protected natural areas in Italy. Towering peaks, sweeping plateaus, and ancient shepherd paths create a landscape that has shaped the culture of Abruzzo for centuries.
To the south rises the wilderness of Majella National Park, another vast protected area known for its dramatic mountain scenery and historic hermitages carved into the rock.
Together these parks form one of the most remarkable mountain environments in Italy—ideal for hikers, nature lovers, and adventurous travelers seeking authentic landscapes far from crowded tourist routes.
Gigia approached these mountain territories with professional curiosity, carefully inspecting rocky viewpoints, grassy clearings, and any suspicious rustling in the alpine vegetation.
🏘️ Historic Villages and Mountain Traditions
Scattered across these mountains are some of the most beautiful historic villages in Abruzzo. Stone houses cluster along narrow medieval streets, church towers rise above mountain valleys, and centuries-old traditions still shape everyday life.
One of the most iconic landmarks in the province is the spectacular fortress of Rocca Calascio, widely considered one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Italy. Perched high above the surrounding valleys, the fortress once guarded ancient trade routes crossing the Apennines.
Nearby villages such as Castel del Monte, Pacentro, and Pescocostanzo preserve centuries of architectural heritage and mountain culture.
For Gigia, these villages offered a perfect blend of ancient staircases, sunlit stone walls, and panoramic terraces ideal for quiet observation of the surrounding kingdom.
💧 Lakes, Valleys, and Quiet Discoveries
Beyond the mountain peaks, L’Aquila Province reveals peaceful landscapes that feel almost timeless.
The enchanting Lake Scanno lies nestled between forested hills and historic villages, creating one of the most picturesque settings in the region.
Nearby valleys hide charming towns such as Anversa degli Abruzzi and Raiano, where travelers discover traditional life unfolding at the gentle rhythm of the mountains.
Gigia inspected these quiet places carefully—occasionally pausing to approve a particularly comfortable stone wall or a strategically located sunbeam.
🍝 A Province Rich in Culture and Flavor
The traditions of L’Aquila Province extend beyond landscapes and architecture to its rich culinary heritage.
The historic town of Sulmona is famous throughout Italy for its colorful confetti—sugar-coated almonds used in weddings and celebrations.
Elsewhere, mountain cuisine reflects centuries of pastoral life, with hearty dishes inspired by shepherd traditions and seasonal ingredients.
Gigia naturally supervised these culinary discoveries with the seriousness of a professional food inspector—though she remained loyal to her strictly feline dietary standards.
🗺️ Explore More of Abruzzo
Continue your journey through Abruzzo’s diverse landscapes with these guides:
⭐ Top Places to Visit in L’Aquila Province
📍 Explore the Villages of L’Aquila Province
Each town and village in this province offers a different glimpse into the landscapes, traditions, and history of Abruzzo’s mountain heart.
🐾 Use the accordion below to explore the destinations of L’Aquila Province:
Anversa degli Abruzzi • Calascio • Capestrano • Castel del Monte • Pacentro • Pescocostanzo • Pratola Peligna • Scanno • Raiano • Sulmona
Each destination reveals another corner of this extraordinary province—and another territory for Gigia to investigate.
📚 Planning Your Abruzzo Adventure
For more on traveling Italy with your feline companion, explore these resources:
Anversa degli Abruzzi
🏘️ Anversa degli Abruzzi: Folk Music, Stone Streets & an Unexpected Spritz Stop
Anversa degli Abruzzi is one of those rare Italian villages that feels like an accidental discovery—so beautiful and atmospheric you immediately wonder why more travelers are not talking about it.
Nestled among the hills of Abruzzo, this small medieval borgo enchants visitors with stone houses, narrow winding streets, and the quiet timelessness that defines many of the region’s hidden gems. Located within easy reach of Scanno and the dramatic landscapes of the Sagittario Valley, Anversa degli Abruzzi offers the kind of authentic experience that rewards spontaneous detours.
For us, it began as a simple decision. On our way back from Scanno, the village seemed like the perfect place to pause for a late afternoon spritz. It quickly became much more than that.
🎶 Live Music at Bar L’Angolo del Grazie
The real magic unfolded at Bar L’Angolo del Grazie, where what was meant to be a short stop turned into one of the most memorable evenings of our Abruzzo travels.
Live folk music filled the square, drawing together locals and visitors in the effortless way only small Italian villages seem to manage so naturally.
Gigia—normally committed to maintaining her carefully cultivated air of feline indifference—became unexpectedly fascinated. Her ears twitched attentively as if she were personally evaluating the musicians’ timing and technique. For a cat famous for selective engagement, this was high praise indeed.
✨ Why Visit Anversa degli Abruzzi
Anversa degli Abruzzi may be small, but it captures many of the qualities that make inland Abruzzo so rewarding:
- authentic village atmosphere
- beautiful medieval architecture
- peaceful hilltop scenery
- welcoming local culture
- spontaneous community events
- access to nearby natural landscapes
It is also perfectly positioned for travelers exploring Scanno, Lake Scanno, or the surrounding mountain villages of L’Aquila province.
Eat & Drink
Calascio (AQ)
🏰 Calascio & Rocca Calascio: Abruzzo’s Legendary Fortress Above the Clouds
Calascio is home to one of Abruzzo’s most iconic landmarks: Rocca Calascio, the spectacular medieval fortress perched high above the Gran Sasso mountains.
Rising dramatically at nearly 1,500 meters above sea level, this ancient stronghold is one of the highest fortresses in Italy and a destination that feels almost suspended between history and sky.
For travelers exploring inland Abruzzo, Rocca Calascio is unforgettable. For photographers, it offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in central Italy. And for history lovers, its weathered stone walls tell stories that stretch back to the Middle Ages.
🎬 A Fortress Made Famous by Film
The dramatic beauty of Rocca Calascio has reached far beyond Abruzzo itself. Its hauntingly beautiful setting has appeared in internationally known films, including The Name of the Rose, helping introduce this extraordinary fortress to audiences around the world.
Yet even cinematic fame does not quite prepare you for seeing it in person. The surrounding landscape of mountains, open sky, and rugged silence creates an atmosphere that feels both powerful and deeply peaceful.
🐾 Gigia’s Royal Arrival
Gigia, naturally, approached the ascent with impeccable practicality. Rather than tackle every step herself, she chose to ride comfortably in her little caravan, surveying the climb with all the calm authority of royalty inspecting her kingdom.
Once at the fortress, however, serious exploration began. She investigated ancient stone passageways, studied the fortress walls with focused intensity, and peered curiously through medieval windows overlooking the vast Abruzzo landscape below. Her fearless glances over the fortress edge, while impressive, were considerably less relaxing for her human companions.
⭐ A Feline Celebrity at the Fortress
Gigia’s visit also attracted local admiration. The tower guard quickly became one of her newest admirers, enthusiastically filming her explorations while clearly charmed by the unexpected sight of such a composed little traveler inspecting one of Abruzzo’s most dramatic historic sites.
At Rocca Calascio, even centuries-old stone fortresses can momentarily share the spotlight.
✨ Why Visit Calascio
Calascio and Rocca Calascio offer an exceptional combination of:
- medieval history
- panoramic mountain views
- iconic photography locations
- cinematic landscapes
- Gran Sasso adventure
- authentic Abruzzo heritage
It is one of the most memorable destinations in L’Aquila province and an essential stop for anyone exploring Abruzzo’s mountain villages.
Eat & Drink
Explore
Rocca Calascio
Capestrano (AQ)
🏛️ Capestrano: Romanesque Abbeys, River Walks & Unexpected Ferraris in Abruzzo
Hidden among the rolling hills of Abruzzo, Capestrano is the kind of village that quietly captures your attention. With its cobblestone lanes, historic stone buildings, and wonderfully unhurried atmosphere, this small commune feels beautifully suspended in time. Far from Italy’s busier tourist circuits, Capestrano offers the peaceful rhythm and authentic character that make inland Abruzzo villages so rewarding to explore.
⛪ Abbazia di San Pietro: A Romanesque Treasure
Just outside the village stands one of Capestrano’s most remarkable historic landmarks: Abbazia di San Pietro ad Oratorium. Dating back to the 12th century, this Romanesque abbey in Italy is a masterpiece of simplicity and serenity.
Its weathered stone façade, elegant arches, and tranquil countryside setting create an atmosphere that feels almost untouched by modern life. Surrounded by greenery and silence, the abbey invites slow appreciation—whether you come for architecture, photography, or simply a moment of calm.
Gigia, however, had slightly different priorities. While the humans admired medieval craftsmanship, she focused her attention on the nearby tree-lined riverbanks, weaving through patches of sunlight beneath the leaves like a tiny explorer on an important mission. Who needs ancient arches when there are geckos to monitor?
🍝 Lunch at Ristorante Collerotondo
Our visit to Capestrano also included a memorable stop at Ristorante Collerotondo, where the local hospitality proved every bit as enjoyable as the scenery.
By pure chance, we had arrived during a Ferrari club gathering. Suddenly, the peaceful restaurant grounds were transformed into a gleaming exhibition of Italian engineering. Classic red Ferraris dominated the display, naturally, though a bold yellow model and an elegant grey one added a little variety.
While we enjoyed hearty Abruzzese dishes, homemade pasta, and excellent local wine, Gigia approached the event with intense professional focus. Perched strategically nearby, she studied each vehicle with the concentration of an experienced automotive critic. The grey Ferrari seemed to earn particular approval. Subtle. Elegant. Sophisticated. A very Gigia choice.
🌿 Nature, History & Feline Adventure
Between inspecting luxury sports cars and chasing geckos through the garden, Gigia somehow balanced medieval heritage, wildlife exploration, and Italian automotive design in a single afternoon.
Capestrano itself offers that same wonderful variety. Visitors will find:
- peaceful village charm
- Romanesque religious architecture
- scenic countryside walks
- authentic Abruzzo dining
- hidden cultural landmarks
- slow travel experiences
✨ Why Visit Capestrano
Capestrano is ideal for travelers seeking a quieter, deeply authentic side of Abruzzo. Its combination of historic beauty, natural landscapes, and unexpected surprises creates an experience that feels personal rather than performative.
And when Gigia is leading the expedition, even a simple lunch stop can evolve into gecko patrol, Ferrari inspection, and full-scale village exploration.
Eat & Drink
Castel del Monte (AQ)
🏔️ Castel del Monte: Medieval Charm, Mountain Views & the Festa di San Donato
High in the rugged mountains of Abruzzo, Castel del Monte rises like a stone crown above the landscape.
This beautifully preserved medieval hilltop village is one of the most atmospheric destinations in inland Abruzzo. With its stacked stone houses, winding cobblestone lanes, and panoramic mountain views, Castel del Monte feels wonderfully untouched by modern time.
Walking through the village is like stepping inside a living postcard. Ancient archways frame dramatic vistas. Narrow alleys twist between weathered stone façades. Quiet piazzas open unexpectedly between centuries-old buildings. It is the kind of place where history feels present in every detail.
🎉 A Surprise Encounter: Festa di San Donato
Our visit became even more memorable thanks to a completely unexpected discovery. We had arrived during the Festa di San Donato, Castel del Monte’s vibrant celebration honoring Saint Donatus of Arezzo, the village’s patron saint.
Suddenly, what might have been a peaceful afternoon exploring medieval streets transformed into a full cultural immersion.
The village filled with:
- traditional Abruzzese music
- the aromas of local food
- festive conversation
- community celebrations
- religious pageantry
The entire town seemed to come alive.
⛪ The Religious Procession
The heart of the festival was the religious procession. Locals carried statues, banners, and sacred symbols through the winding streets in tribute to Saint Donatus. The parade moved slowly through the village with a solemn beauty, blending faith, tradition, and communal pride.
Against the backdrop of ancient stone buildings, the procession felt deeply connected to the history of the place itself. A tradition repeated across generations. A celebration where the entire village participates.
🐾 Gigia and the Music
Gigia, naturally, was fascinated. As a devoted observer of human behaviour—and an enthusiastic admirer of anything remotely theatrical—she watched the procession with complete concentration.
The traditional music especially caught her attention. Her ears twitched in perfect rhythm as melodies echoed through the streets. She followed every movement with wide, alert eyes, studying the parade as if conducting important historical research. Or perhaps simply judging everyone’s performance standards. Either interpretation feels plausible.
✨ Why Visit Castel del Monte
Castel del Monte offers far more than beautiful mountain scenery. Visitors come here for:
- authentic medieval architecture
- panoramic Abruzzo landscapes
- traditional festivals in Italy
- local cultural heritage
- peaceful slow travel experiences
- medieval villages in Abruzzo
It is an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic Abruzzo beyond the major tourist routes.
Pacentro (AQ)
🏛️ Pacentro: Medieval Drama, Majella Views & a Very Glamorous Golden Hour
We didn’t come for Madonna—though yes, her ancestors once walked these cobblestones.
We came for Pacentro’s extraordinary atmosphere: a perfectly preserved medieval village where stone alleys twist like a labyrinth, time slows to a whisper, and every corner feels cinematic.
Officially listed among the Borghi più belli d’Italia, Pacentro is one of the most captivating destinations in inland Abruzzo.
🏰 Castello Caldora & Majella National Park Views
Towering above the village, Castello Caldora dominates the skyline like a watchful medieval guardian.
Its imposing towers and fortress walls create a dramatic contrast against the soft, rolling landscape beyond. From nearly every vantage point in the village, the castle seems to follow you—part landmark, part silent storyteller.
Beyond it stretches the breathtaking scenery of Majella National Park, one of Abruzzo’s most spectacular natural areas.
Here, the views are vast and untamed:
- forested slopes
- rugged mountain ridges
- shifting light across the valleys
- landscapes that feel almost painterly
It’s the kind of panorama that doesn’t just impress—it lingers.
🍹 Bar La Villa & Golden Hour Perfection
But as always, Gigia had her own priorities.
Her defining moment in Pacentro unfolded at Bar La Villa, affectionately known as “Bar Bella Vista” thanks to its extraordinary sunset panoramas.
As golden hour settled over the mountains, the terrace transformed into a natural stage.
And naturally, Gigia took center position.
Perched with effortless elegance, she observed the changing light across the Majella landscape with the calm authority of someone who clearly believed she had curated the entire experience.
Nearby, at Taverna dei Caldora, dinner unfolded in perfect harmony with the setting.
Local dishes, warm evening air, and that unmistakable Abruzzo glow created one of those rare travel moments that feels both spontaneous and cinematic.
Gigia, of course, conducted a silent evaluation.
Lighting: acceptable.
Atmosphere: strong.
Overall composition: significantly enhanced by her presence.
👑 A Village of History… and One Very Important Cat
Across the valley, Castello Caldora remained as dramatic as ever.
A monument to centuries of history.
A symbol of Abruzzo’s medieval soul.
And yet, for one golden evening, it quietly ceded the spotlight.
Because Pacentro—despite its noble past and even its distant connection to global pop culture—had a new luminary.
Small. Observant. Impeccably composed.
✨ Why Visit Pacentro
Pacentro offers one of the richest and most atmospheric village experiences in Abruzzo.
Visitors will find:
- authentic medieval architecture
- panoramic mountain landscapes
- access to Majella National Park
- traditional Abruzzese cuisine (learn more)
- peaceful, slow travel atmosphere
- one of the most beautiful villages in Italy
It is an ideal stop for travelers looking to combine culture, nature, and authenticity—without the crowds.
For more inspiration, explore our Abruzzo travel guide, discover things to do in Abruzzo, or plan a visit to other Abruzzo mountain villages.
🐾 Gigia’s Verdict
Exceptional sunset conditions.
Strong architectural backdrop.
Excellent terrace positioning.
And highly satisfactory dramatic potential.
Pacentro delivered on every level.
Though naturally, Gigia remains convinced the true highlight of the village… was her.
Eat & Drink
Pescocostanzo (AQ)
🏛️ Pescocostanzo: Artisan Heritage, Baroque Beauty & Timeless Mountain Elegance
Set high in the embrace of the Apennines, Pescocostanzo is one of Abruzzo’s most refined and culturally rich mountain villages. Officially listed among the historic villages in Italy, this Pescocostanzo artisan village rewards slow exploration.
With its elegant stone buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and perfectly preserved historic centre, the town feels less like a destination and more like a living museum of handmade Italian craftsmanship. It is no surprise that this is one of the most architecturally significant villages in the region—and naturally, Gigia approached it with the seriousness it deserved.
⛪ Basilica of Santa Maria del Colle: A Masterpiece of Devotion
At the heart of the town stands the magnificent Basilica of Santa Maria del Colle, a 15th-century masterpiece that defines Pescocostanzo’s skyline.
Inside, intricate wooden ceilings, detailed stonework, and richly decorated chapels reveal centuries of artistic devotion. Every element reflects the precision and pride of the local craftsmen who helped shape not just this church, but the identity of the entire town.
Gigia, appointed (by herself) as chief inspector, moved through the space with quiet determination—pausing, observing, and occasionally sniffing corners as though uncovering secrets lost to time.
🕊️ Church of Santa Maria del Suffragio: Baroque Elegance
Not far away, the Church of Santa Maria del Suffragio offers a different but equally captivating experience. Its refined Baroque façade and tranquil interior create a softer, more intimate atmosphere—one that invites reflection and stillness.
Even Gigia, usually quick to move on to her next discovery, seemed momentarily content to simply sit, observe, and absorb the calm.
🎨 A Legacy of Stone, Lace & Gold
Pescocostanzo’s true distinction lies in its artistic heritage. The town has long been renowned for its master stone craftsmen, whose work helped shape not only local architecture but also contributed to some of Italy’s most important historical buildings.
Today, that legacy is still visible everywhere: finely carved portals, elegant fountains, perfectly balanced archways, and harmonious piazzas.
Beyond stonework, the town is also known for:
- Italian artisan traditions including handmade lace (tombolo tradition)
- Abruzzo lace and gold filigree traditions – the famous Presentosa jewellery
- small artisan workshops preserving centuries-old techniques
This is not mass-produced Italy—this is craftsmanship in its purest form.
🚶 Strolling the Historic Centre
After completing her “architectural inspection,” Gigia led a slow exploration through the historic centre. And this is where Pescocostanzo truly reveals itself.
There is no rush here. Instead, you’ll find quiet piazzas filled with soft light and mountain air, small artisan boutiques tucked into stone buildings, locals who greet you with curiosity rather than haste, and corners that feel unchanged for generations.
For more inspiration, explore things to do in Abruzzo and discover other Abruzzo mountain villages.
Gigia, naturally, embraced her role as unofficial ambassador. She paused frequently—sometimes to admire a view, sometimes to observe passersby, and occasionally simply to ensure she was being properly admired. The locals, in turn, were more than willing to oblige.
✨ Why Visit Pescocostanzo
Pescocostanzo offers one of the most elegant and culturally rich experiences in Abruzzo. Visitors will find exceptional historic architecture, authentic artisan traditions, a peaceful mountain atmosphere, a beautifully preserved town centre, and a slower, more refined pace of travel.
It is particularly ideal for travelers seeking authenticity, craftsmanship, and understated beauty—far from Italy’s more crowded destinations.
For a complete overview of the region, explore our Abruzzo travel guide.
🐾 Gigia’s Verdict
Outstanding attention to detail.
Strong architectural consistency.
Excellent strolling conditions.
And a highly satisfactory level of admiration from locals.
Pescocostanzo met every expectation.
Though, in Gigia’s professional opinion… the town’s greatest artistic contribution that day was her.
Pratola Peligna (AQ)
🏘️ Pratola Peligna: Authentic Italy, Local Life & Slow Travel in the Peligna Valley
Beyond the well-trodden routes of mainstream tourism lies Pratola Peligna, a town where daily life unfolds with quiet authenticity and where the rhythm of the seasons still shapes everything.
Set in the heart of the Peligna Valley and framed by the Apennine mountains, Pratola offers something increasingly rare in Italy: a genuine, unfiltered connection to local culture.
While nearby Raiano draws visitors each June for the lively Sagra delle Ciliegie — a joyful celebration of the region’s famous cherries — Pratola Peligna reveals a more subtle charm.
This is not a place of spectacle. It is a place of atmosphere.
🌿 Living the Local Rhythm
Our planned 10-day stay quickly turned into something deeper. Pratola Peligna doesn’t overwhelm — it draws you in.
Morning routines become rituals. Simple interactions become meaningful moments.
At Bar Sugar Di Santilli Luigi, Gigia established her daily headquarters. From a perfectly positioned windowsill, she observed village life unfold: locals stopping for their morning espresso, familiar greetings exchanged across the bar, the gentle rhythm of a town that doesn’t rush.
Naturally, she became part of the routine. A quiet celebrity. Rewarded, on occasion, with discreet slivers of cornetto from amused regulars.
🚪 A Gateway to the Peligna Valley
Pratola Peligna also serves as an ideal base for exploring the wider Peligna Valley, one of Abruzzo’s most authentic and underappreciated areas. From here, you can easily discover traditional villages, local food producers, seasonal festivals, and mountain landscapes.
But interestingly, the most memorable experiences didn’t come from planned excursions. They came from conversations.
💬 Where Stories Matter More Than Itineraries
In Pratola, knowledge isn’t found in guidebooks. It’s shared. Freely and generously. Through the butcher recommending a hidden trattoria, a grandmother sharing how to recognize the best ricotta, or a shopkeeper pointing you toward a village festival you’d never find online.
These exchanges feel less like tips — and more like heirlooms being passed down.
✨ An Italy Untouched by Performance
What makes Pratola Peligna truly special is what it isn’t. It isn’t curated. It isn’t performative. It isn’t trying to impress. And that’s exactly why it does.
Here, the highlights are beautifully simple: the arrival of fresh ricotta at the local cheesemonger, the scent of wood-fired bread drifting through the streets, an impromptu conversation that turns into an invitation, the parish priest pausing mid-walk to admire Gigia sunbathing.
It is an Italy that exists for itself — not for visitors.
✨ Why Visit Pratola Peligna
Pratola Peligna is ideal for travelers seeking depth over spectacle. Visitors will find authentic Italian daily life, a strong sense of local community, access to the Peligna Valley, excellent local food traditions, and a relaxed, slow travel atmosphere. It is less about seeing and more about experiencing.
For a complete overview of the region, explore our Abruzzo travel guide.
🐾 Gigia’s Verdict
Exceptional window seating.
Consistent pastry availability.
Strong local engagement.
And a highly respectable appreciation for feline presence.
Pratola Peligna understands the essentials: good food, warm company… and always leaving room for cream.
Scanno (AQ)
💎 Scanno: The Heart-Shaped Lake, Gold Filigree & One Very Regal Cat
Few places in Italy capture the imagination quite like Scanno. Often described as one of the most beautiful villages in Abruzzo, this mountain town doesn’t just resemble a postcard—it defines it.
From its iconic heart-shaped lake to its centuries-old traditions, Scanno blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and timeless elegance in a way that feels almost theatrical. And naturally, Gigia rose to the occasion.
💙 Lago di Scanno: Italy’s Most Romantic View
Just beyond the village lies the famous Lago di Scanno, known for its distinctive heart shape when viewed from above. The best viewpoint is along the Sentiero del Cuore trail, which offers the perfect vantage point over the heart-shaped lake below.
Surrounded by forested slopes and mountain silence, it is one of the most photographed landscapes in central Italy—and for good reason.
Here, nature delivers its most poetic composition: still waters reflecting the surrounding peaks, shifting light that transforms the scenery by the hour, and quiet trails perfect for slow exploration.
Gigia, of course, identified it immediately as a prime staging location. Her lakeside poses—carefully timed with the changing light—suggested a deep understanding of visual composition… or at least excellent feline instincts.
👑 A Village of Traditions: Costumes & Craftsmanship
Back in the historic centre, Scanno reveals another layer of its identity. This is a village where tradition is not preserved—it is lived. Locals still wear traditional Abruzzese dress during festivals and celebrations, creating a rare continuity between past and present—something increasingly difficult to find in modern Italy.
But Scanno’s true distinction lies in its craftsmanship. The village is internationally renowned for its Italian gold filigree jewellery, an intricate art form passed down through generations.
In the small workshops lining the cobbled streets, artisans continue to shape delicate gold threads into elaborate designs—each piece reflecting centuries of precision and cultural heritage. Scanno is also part of Abruzzo’s rich textile and lace-making traditions, with bobbin lace craftsmanship that has been recognized nationally and internationally.
Even Gigia paused here. Not out of reverence, of course. But because shiny things demand attention.
🚶 Exploring the Historic Centre
Wandering through Scanno feels like stepping into a perfectly preserved moment in time. The village’s narrow alleys, stone staircases, and hidden piazzas create an almost labyrinthine experience—one that rewards curiosity and slow exploration.
And in true form, Gigia didn’t simply explore. She presided. Leading the way through cobbled alleyways, artisan boutiques, quiet church steps, and sunlit piazzas. She moved with complete authority—pausing just long enough to be admired.
And admired she was. “Che gattina magnifica!” followed her from corner to corner, while amused shopkeepers welcomed her quiet inspections—even when they included suspiciously close proximity to delicate displays.
✨ Why Visit Scanno
Scanno offers one of the most complete travel experiences in Abruzzo. Visitors will find one of Italy’s most iconic natural landscapes, a beautifully preserved medieval village, authentic cultural traditions still actively practiced, world-renowned artisan craftsmanship, and a peaceful yet visually striking mountain setting.
It is ideal for travelers seeking beauty, authenticity, and a sense of timeless Italy.
For a complete overview of the region, explore our Abruzzo travel guide.
🐾 Gigia’s Verdict
Exceptional aesthetic quality.
Strong admiration from the public.
High concentration of photogenic backdrops.
And an acceptable level of reverence from local artisans.
Scanno delivered. Though, for one perfectly curated day… it wasn’t just a beautiful village. It was a stage. And Gigia, unquestionably, was the main attraction.
Raiano (AQ)
🍦 Raiano: Gelato Stops, Mountain Charm & an Unexpected Feline Spa Day
Tucked beneath the rugged slopes of the Apennines, Raiano is the kind of place you don’t plan for—but end up remembering long after the journey ends. Located in the Peligna Valley at the entrance to the Sagittario Valley, this medieval village sits at the foot of Mount Morrone.
At first glance, it’s everything you’d expect from an authentic Abruzzo town: narrow streets lined with stone houses, a relaxed, unhurried rhythm of life, and mountain views that quietly frame the experience. It feels like a place designed for a pause. And that’s exactly what it became.
🍨 A Simple Stop That Turned Into a Moment
We arrived in Raiano with modest intentions. Just a quick stop. Just a gelato.
But Italy has a way of rewriting even the simplest plans.
One gelato became two. Pistachio — rich, creamy, unmistakably Italian. Stracciatella — because restraint feels unnecessary here. In Raiano, indulgence doesn’t feel excessive. It feels appropriate.
💧 The Most Unexpected Highlight: A Fountain & a Cat
But as always, the real story belonged to Gigia.
The summer heat lingered in the streets, softened only by the occasional breeze from the mountains. And then—unexpectedly—we found it. A simple roadside water fountain. Unassuming. Functional. Perfect.
What followed was entirely unplanned. And entirely unforgettable.
With a little encouragement (and perhaps questionable consent), Gigia experienced her first spontaneous “cooling treatment.”
✨ Why Visit Raiano
Raiano may not headline travel itineraries—but that’s precisely its strength. It offers an authentic glimpse of everyday life in Abruzzo, a peaceful stop between larger destinations, access to the surrounding Peligna Valley, simple pleasures like excellent local gelato, and moments that happen naturally, without planning.
It’s a reminder that not every destination needs a checklist. Some simply need your attention.
Raiano is just one of many authentic destinations waiting to be discovered across Abruzzo — a region we’ve explored in depth in our Abruzzo travel guide.
🐾 Gigia’s Verdict
Excellent gelato standards.
Functional hydration infrastructure.
Questionable water-related decision-making by humans.
But ultimately — acceptable.
Raiano proved that even the smallest stops can become the most memorable.
Especially when you allow space for the unexpected.
And occasionally… for a slightly dramatic, waterlogged cat.
Sulmona (AQ)
🍬 Sulmona: Confetti, Porchetta & One of Italy’s Most Surreal Traditions
Set in the heart of the Peligna Valley, Sulmona is one of Abruzzo’s most culturally layered towns—where Roman history, culinary excellence, and centuries-old traditions come together in a way that feels both authentic and unforgettable.
It is, quite simply, a place that engages all the senses.
🍬 The Sweet Identity of Sulmona: Confetti & Craft Tradition
Sulmona is world-famous for its confetti—not paper, but sugar-coated almonds traditionally used in Italian celebrations, especially weddings.
These aren’t just sweets. They are miniature works of art.
Displayed in elegant shop windows throughout the historic centre, confetti are carefully arranged into intricate floral compositions, symbolic decorative shapes, and vibrant, colour-coordinated displays. This long-standing tradition reflects Sulmona’s identity as a centre of craftsmanship—where even confectionery becomes an expression of artistry.
📜 A Town of History: The Legacy of Ovid
Sulmona is also the birthplace of Ovid, one of ancient Rome’s most celebrated poets. His presence is still felt throughout the town, particularly in Piazza XX Settembre, where a statue of the poet stands as a reminder of Sulmona’s classical roots.
It’s a fitting symbol. Because in Sulmona, past and present don’t compete—they coexist.
⛪ Madonna che Scappa: Easter Like Nowhere Else
Among Italy’s many religious traditions, few are as striking as Sulmona’s Madonna che Scappa.
Held on Easter Sunday, the event features a dramatic reenactment in which a statue of the Virgin Mary is carried across the square—appearing to “run” toward the resurrected Christ. The moment is highly choreographed, emotionally charged, and deeply symbolic. It is both a religious ritual and a powerful expression of local identity—one that draws visitors from across Italy and beyond.
🍖 Food in Sulmona: A Destination in Itself
If Sulmona’s culture captures your attention, its food ensures you stay.
Porchetta: The Unofficial Obsession
The local porchetta quickly became a defining experience. Served from market trucks and small vendors, this traditional Italian street food delivers crispy, crackling skin; tender, herb-infused pork; and simple, perfect presentation in a crusty roll.
It wasn’t a one-time stop. It was a return destination. Repeatedly.
A Standout Experience: Frangiò al Casale
For a more refined culinary experience, Frangiò al Casale offers something exceptional. Set in a beautifully restored 18th-century farmhouse at the foot of Monte Morrone, the restaurant combines rustic architectural charm, panoramic countryside views, and elevated interpretations of local cuisine.
It’s the kind of place where the setting enhances the meal—and the meal justifies the journey.
✨ Why Visit Sulmona
Sulmona stands out as one of Abruzzo’s most complete destinations. Visitors will find deep historical roots (from Roman times to today), unique cultural traditions like Madonna che Scappa, world-renowned artisanal products, exceptional local food experiences, and a relaxed, authentic atmosphere.
It is ideal for travelers seeking culture, food, and a slower pace—without sacrificing depth.
Sulmona is just one of many authentic destinations waiting to be discovered across Abruzzo — a region we’ve explored in depth in our Abruzzo travel guide.
🐾 Gigia’s Verdict
Outstanding food quality.
Strong cultural programming.
Excellent public appreciation.
And a surprisingly high number of repeat visits to the same porchetta vendor.
Sulmona delivered on every level.
History, flavour, atmosphere… and just enough theatrical flair to keep things interesting.