Alanno

Discover Alanno: a gem among the mountains of Abruzzo

Hello everyone! Today I'll tell you about the municipality of Alanno, a small hidden gem in the wonderful region of Abruzzo. With its approximately 4,000 inhabitants, Alanno is located in the central area of the Pescara river valley, surrounded by the mountains of the Abruzzo Apennines.

Discover Alanno: a gem amongst the Abruzzo mountains.

A land with a temperate climate

Alanno's climate

Alanno's climate is generally temperate but can vary significantly depending on the season. Summer months are hot and pleasant, ideal for hiking and enjoying the surrounding nature, while winter can be cold and snowy. However, don't worry, the city is well equipped to deal with all weather eventualities!

The history of a medieval village

A bit of history

Despite traces of pre-Roman settlements, Alanno has a very fascinating medieval history. In the eighth century, the Lombards fortified it as a guard post to protect the abbey of San Clemente in Casauria. Over the centuries, the village fell into decline and was sold to various lords such as the Camponeschis and the Caracciolos. In 1915, it was damaged by the Avezzano earthquake, but it was rebuilt with great tenacity.

Must-visit places of interest

The Longobard castle and the circular tower

If you visit Alanno, you cannot miss the Longobard castle and the circular tower. The castle, built in the ninth century by Ludovico II the Younger as a guard post above a pre-existing village, was later transformed into a baronial palace in the fifteenth century. The circular tower, instead, is the only remaining part of the ancient fortress and dates back to the fifteenth century. It has a shoe structure and is very suggestive.

The Franciscan oratory of Santa Maria delle Grazie

Another place of interest in Alanno is the Franciscan oratory of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This fortified rural building was rebuilt ex novo in the eighteenth century but has a much earlier history. The foundation dates back to 1498 when the Madonna asked the farmers for a new country church.

How to reach Alanno

By road and by train

To reach Alanno, there are several options. You can take the E55 motorway from Rome, then exit at Alanno, or you can travel by train on the Trenitalia Rome-Pescara line, getting off at Alanno-Scafa station.

Conclusion

Visit Alanno: an Abruzzo gem

In summary, if you are looking for a quiet place full of history where you can spend some time in a natural environment, then Alanno is the perfect destination for you. There is nothing better than a walk through the ancient streets of the medieval village or a picnic in the mountains surrounding the village. We look forward to welcoming you to Alanno!

Andrea Giordano
Updated Tuesday, Nov 8, 2022