Tucked away in the heart of Italy lies a region that is often overlooked by travelers, but is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. We’re talking about Abruzzo, a region that boasts stunning landscapes, picturesque towns, and a unique cultural heritage. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the 20 must-visit destinations in Abruzzo, from medieval fortresses to stunning lakes, and from ancient ruins to breathtaking national parks.
1. Rocca Calascio: A Medieval Fortress in the Sky
Perched atop a hill at an impressive 1464 meters above sea level, Rocca Calascio is a medieval fortress that dates back to the 13th century. This stunning castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a must-visit destination for any history buff or fan of medieval architecture.
Rocca Calascio is located in the comune of Scanno, which is part of the province of L’Aquila. The fortress has been restored to its original grandeur, with beautiful stone walls, towers, and battlements. Visitors can explore the castle’s courtyards, chapels, and rooms, as well as enjoy stunning views from the top.
2. Grotte di Stiffe: A Natural Wonder
Located in the province of Aquila, Grotte di Stiffe is a natural wonder that showcases the region’s unique geology. This network of caves features stunning stalactites and stalagmites, as well as crystal-clear lakes that are perfect for swimming.
The grottoes are located near the town of San Giovanni in Venere, which is famous for its beautiful church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. Visitors can explore the grottoes by boat or on foot, taking in the stunning scenery and unique rock formations.
3. Lago di Scanno: A Blue Heaven
Surrounded by picturesque villages and towering mountains, Lago di Scanno is a haven for nature lovers. This pristine lake offers breathtaking views, opportunities for water sports, and a relaxing atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Lago di Scanno is located in the comune of Scanno, which is part of the province of L’Aquila. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountains, forests, and villages, making it an ideal destination for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
4. Eremo di San Bartolomeo in Legio: A Medieval Hermitage
Located in the comune of Roccamorice, Eremo di San Bartolomeo in Legio is a medieval hermitage that dates back to the 15th century. This stunning structure offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or architecture.
The eremo is located on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the valley below. Visitors can explore the hermitage’s courtyards, chapels, and rooms, as well as climb to the top for breathtaking views.
5. Castello Piccolomini e Gole di Celano: A Medieval Castle and Valley
Located in the parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise, Castello Piccolomini e Gole di Celano is a medieval castle that dates back to the 13th century. This stunning structure offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or architecture.
The castle is located near the town of Civitella del Tronto, which is part of the province of L’Aquila. Visitors can explore the castle’s courtyards, towers, and battlements, as well as enjoy stunning views from the top.
6. Alba Fucens e Santa Maria in Valle Porclaneta: A Roman Ruin
Located at the foot of Mount Velino, Alba Fucens e Santa Maria in Valle Porclaneta is an ancient Roman ruin that dates back to the 1st century BC. This stunning site offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or archaeology.
The ruins are located near the town of Scanno, which is part of the province of L’Aquila. Visitors can explore the ruins’ courtyards, temples, and streets, as well as climb to the top for breathtaking views.
7. Costa dei Trabocchi: A Coastal Paradise
Located in the province of Chieti, Costa dei Trabocchi is a coastal paradise that boasts stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns. This region is perfect for beach lovers who want to relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.
Costa dei Trabocchi is located on the Adriatic coast, near the town of Pescara. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and other water sports, as well as explore the local villages and seafood restaurants.
8. Fortezza di Civitella del Tronto e la Ruetta: A Medieval Fortress
Located in the comune of Civitella del Tronto, Fortezza di Civitella del Tronto e la Ruetta is a medieval fortress that dates back to the 14th century. This stunning structure offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or architecture.
The fortress is located near the town of Civitella del Tronto, which is part of the province of L’Aquila. Visitors can explore the fortress’s courtyards, towers, and battlements, as well as enjoy stunning views from the top.
9. Calanchi di Atri: A Geographical Marvel
Located in the area of Riserva Naturale Regionale dei Calanchi di Atri, Calanchi di Atri is a geographical marvel that showcases the region’s unique geology. This stunning landscape features towering rock formations, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking views.
The calanchi are located near the town of Atri, which is part of the province of Chieti. Visitors can explore the calanchi by foot or by bike, taking in the stunning scenery and unique rock formations.
10. L’Aquila e la Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio: A City of History
Located in the comune of L’Aquila, L’Aquila is a city that boasts a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire. The Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio is a stunning example of medieval architecture and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or architecture.
L’Aquila is located in the province of L’Aquila, which is part of the Abruzzo region. Visitors can explore the city’s historic center, visit the basilica, and enjoy stunning views from the top of Mount Gorzano.
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11. Museo Nazionale d’Abruzzo: A Treasure Trove of Art
Located in the city of L’Aquila, Museo Nazionale d’Abruzzo is a treasure trove of art that showcases the region’s unique cultural heritage. This stunning museum features works by local artists, as well as exhibits on the region’s history and geology.
The museum is located near the basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, which is part of the historic center of L’Aquila. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, exhibitions, and artifacts, as well as enjoy stunning views from the top of Mount Gorzano.
12. Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Located in the south of Italy, Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise is a nature lover’s paradise that boasts stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and breathtaking views. This national park is perfect for hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to connect with nature.
The park is located near the town of Pescara, which is part of the province of Abruzzo. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, lakes, and mountains, as well as enjoy stunning views from the top.
13. Campo Imperatore: A Skiing Paradise
Located in the mountains of Abruzzo, Campo Imperatore is a skiing paradise that offers breathtaking views, challenging slopes, and a relaxing atmosphere. This resort town is perfect for skiers, snowboarders, and anyone who wants to enjoy the winter wonderland.
Campo Imperatore is located near the town of Scanno, which is part of the province of L’Aquila. Visitors can ski, snowboard, or simply relax in the beautiful scenery.
14. Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga: A Nature Reserve
Located in the heart of Italy, Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga is a nature reserve that boasts stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and breathtaking views. This national park is perfect for hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to connect with nature.
The park is located near the town of L’Aquila, which is part of the province of L’Aquila. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, lakes, and mountains, as well as enjoy stunning views from the top.
15. Valle dell’Orfento: A Trekking Paradise
Located in the mountains of Abruzzo, Valle dell’Orfento is a trekking paradise that offers breathtaking views, challenging trails, and a relaxing atmosphere. This valley is perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to connect with nature.
The valley is located near the town of Scanno, which is part of the province of L’Aquila. Visitors can hike, camp, or simply relax in the beautiful scenery.
16. Abbazia di San Giovanni in Venere: A Medieval Hermitage
Located in the comune of Fossacesia, Abbazia di San Giovanni in Venere is a medieval hermitage that dates back to the 13th century. This stunning structure offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or architecture.
The abbey is located near the town of Fossacesia, which is part of the province of Chieti. Visitors can explore the hermitage’s courtyards, chapels, and rooms, as well as climb to the top for breathtaking views.
17. I mulini sommersi di Lago Capo d’Acqua: Ancient Mills
Located in the lago di Capestrano, I mulini sommersi di Lago Capo d’Acqua are ancient mills that date back to the 19th century. These stunning structures offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or architecture.
The mills are located near the town of Tavolla, which is part of the province of Chieti. Visitors can explore the mills’ courtyards, rooms, and machinery, as well as enjoy stunning views from the top.
18. Torre Cerrano e Porto di Hadria a Pineto: A Coastal Fortress
Located in the city of Pineto, Torre Cerrano e Porto di Hadria a Pineto is a coastal fortress that dates back to the 14th century. This stunning structure offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or architecture.
The fortress is located near the town of Pineto, which is part of the province of Chieti. Visitors can explore the fortress’s courtyards, towers, and battlements, as well as enjoy stunning views from the top.
19. Pescara: A City of Culture
Located in the province of Abruzzo, Pescara is a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage dating back to the Roman Empire. This stunning city features breathtaking views, museums, galleries, and a vibrant atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Pescara is located near the town of San Demetrio Neapolitano, which is part of the province of Chieti. Visitors can explore the city’s historic center, visit the museums, and enjoy stunning views from the top of Monte Pescaro.
20. Abruzzo: A Region of Natural Beauty
Located in central Italy, Abruzzo is a region that boasts stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant towns and cities. This region is perfect for travelers who want to experience the best of Italy’s landscapes, history, and culture.
Abruzzo is located near the town of Pescara, which is part of the province of Chieti. Visitors can explore the region’s natural beauty, visit the historic towns and cities, and enjoy stunning views from the top of the mountains.
In conclusion, Abruzzo is a region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, nature, or culture, this region has it all. From the stunning landscapes of the Gran Sasso National Park to the vibrant towns and cities of L’Aquila and Pescara, Abruzzo is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
