Welcome to Sulmona, nestled in the heart of Abruzzo, where history seamlessly blends with vibrant culture. Stroll through the enchanting historic center, where every corner tells a story and every cobblestone echoes the past.
Sulmona is more than just a destination - it's a gateway to the incredible diversity of Abruzzo. Explore the mountains and regions that surround this town, the charming villages and cities of the region, each with its own unique character and charm. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture lover, Sulmona is the perfect place to experience the beauty and charm of Abruzzo.
Throughout the year, Sulmona comes alive with an array of exciting events that showcase its rich history and vibrant culture. The two highlights of Sulmona's events calendar are the Giostra Cavallaresca: A thrilling competition on horseback between the seven districts of Sulmona, taking place over the last weekend of July. Afterwards join the parties in each quarter, where music, food, and joy fill the air until the early hours. La Madonna che Scappa: This spectacular narrative re-enactment draws a massive crowd of thousands each year. It's a powerful and emotive portrayal of the encounter between the Virgin Mary and the risen Christ, an event that will leave you awestruck and inspired.
Must see highlights include:
Porta Napoli the southern gateway dating back to the 14th century;
The Medieval Aqueduct built in 1256 that has stood the test of time;
Piazza Garibaldi an enormous bustling square where many events and the town's market is held on a Wednesday and Saturday where you can sample local delicacies, shop for your groceries and everyday items and mingle with the friendly locals.
Statue of Ovid - pay homage to one of the greatest poets of antiquity;
Discover the beauty of Sulmona’s many churches, each showcasing stunning artistry and intricate details that reflect centuries of devotion.
Confetti, also known as sugared almonds originate from Sulmona. As you wander the charming streets of the historic city, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant displays of confetti shops showcasing a dazzling array of colors and flavors, from classic white and pastel shades to unique and innovative combinations delighting the senses. Pop into Rapone for an array of flavors that go beyond traditional options, that will surprise and delight or why not Step into a world of sweetness at the Pelino Factory, where the art of confetti-making has been perfected for generations.
With an array of charming bars, cozy cafes, and exquisite restaurants, you'll find the perfect spot to indulge in culinary delights at any time of day.
Begin your morning with a delightful breakfast at one of the many local cafes amd don't miss the cherished Italian tradition of aperitivo! Unwind at one of the lively bars, sipping on refreshing cocktails or local wines while enjoying tasty small bites. It’s the perfect way to relax and people-watch as the evening unfolds around you.
Embark on an unforgettable journey; visit the beautiful town of Pacentro; climb up one of its towers and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views. If you're feeling brave, feel the thrill of Pacentro's zipline. Continue your adventure by driving through the captivating San Leonardo's Pass, where you'll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sights of the Maiella National Park. Perched on the side of the mountain, a short drive from Sulmona is the Eremo Sant'Onofrio a serene hermitage dating back to the 13th century. For history buffs, a visit to the Abbazia Santo Spirito in nearby Badia is a must.
Are you ready to explore the beauty of Abruzzo in a way that’s uniquely yours? We are here to help you craft a customized day tour tailored to your specific interests and desires.
Whether you're passionate about history, eager to dive into local culture, or seeking adventure in the great outdoors, we will ensure your day is one of your most memorable!
Get in touch with us via the contact form on this website and we can start planning! You can also head over to www.exploringabruzzo.com for more information
The Gran Sasso contains the highest mountain in central Italy, the Corno Grande at 2,912 metres. The impressive plateau of Campo Imperatore, (little Tibet) is a large and beautiful high-altitude grassland. More than 2,000 species of plants live in the different areas of the park, from prairies and pastures to woods. The undergrowth is rich in colours and the aromas of raspberries and wild orchids.
The Maiella is Europe’s largest protected area: 74,095 hectares of unique mountainous terrain is home to a rich array of wildlife, nearly half of all mammal species found in Italy are present in the Maiella including the Apennine wolf, wild boar, red deer, roe deer, wild cats, otters, chamois and brown bear.
The Sirente Velino is the third highest mountain massif in the Apennines and hosts the Sirente Velino Regional Park in the province of L’Aquila, Abruzzo
The massifs are very different in terms of vegetation; the Sirente located in the central Eastern part of the park has extensive and diverse flora whilst the Velino in the western part of the park is void of showy vegetation and has semi-desert areas.
The Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park with 50,000 hectares was established in 1923. It is the oldest park in the Apennines and the second oldest in Italy, with an important role in the preservation of species such as the Italian wolf, Abruzzo chamois and Marsican brown bear.
Explore the Adriatic coastline and its many blue flag beaches with their crystal clear waters. Relax under the umbrellas at the many lidos or just take one from The Poets' Retreat to a 'free' beach.
Cycle along the Via Verde and spot the ancient Trabocchi (ancient fishing platforms) some of which are still in use today supplying their own restuarants that are built upon these stilted structrues.
Dive into the breathtaking beauty of the region, where adventure knows no bounds! Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a lover of nature, there is an abundance of activities that cater to every taste and skill level all year round. Cycling, hiking, riding, surfing, paddle-boarding, sailing, climbing, skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing down Europe's clearest river, the Tirino, to name but just a few of the activities the region is suited to all year round.
There is an endless list of possibilities to be explored in Abruzzo. To help you plan your trip, this collection of videos provides a glimpse into the magic of Abruzzo, helping you envision your next adventure. Whether you're seeking relaxation, exploration, or a bit of both, our region has it all!
Ovidio Nasone
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