Borrello

Welcome to Borrello: a hidden treasure in the mountainous Abruzzo

Welcome to Borrello, a mountain town located in the province of Chieti, Abruzzo, with a population of only 305 inhabitants. Also known as "Burièlle" in Abruzzese dialect, it is part of the Middle Sangro Mountain Community. If you are a lover of history and archaeology, Borrello is the perfect place for you.

The History of Borrello Castle

Borrello is a town rich in history. If the 10th century fascinates you, Borrello Castle will leave you speechless. According to the philosopher Benedetto Croce, the Borrello family, from which the castle took its name, owned the place, as evidenced by a document from the year 1000. Anton Ludovico Antinori later confirmed this theory in his "Annals of Abruzzo" in the 18th century. The Borrello family descended from a Frankish leader of Berardi origins.

Borrello: the historical gem of the Abruzzo mountains.

Monuments and Places of Interest in Borrello

Borrello boasts several historical and architectural places of interest. One of the town's greatest treasures is the Church of Sant'Egidio located in the historic center of the town, characterized by a single nave in rural style. The Church of Sant'Antonio with two naves is located outside the historic center, in via Roma. Today, both churches are still meeting places for the town's inhabitants.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit Palazzo Marranzano, a building renovated in the 19th century that represents the living history of the town. Located near the church of Sant'Egidio, the palace consists of three floors, topped by a triangular tympanum with classical moldings. The entrance portal is made up of stone jambs and lintel, with a noble emblem depicting 3 wheat spikes. Palazzo Marranzano is currently a private property.

The Baronial Palace is another building of great historical importance. Originally equipped with a drawbridge, it is divided into three floors and is located right next to the Clock Tower. Today, the Baronial Palace is the seat of the Municipality and constitutes a community meeting place.

Piazza Vecchia is the main square of the town, considered the center of social life for the inhabitants of Borrello. Here, you can relax and observe the daily activities of village life.

Finally, don't miss the opportunity to visit "Fonte a Ball", located near the historic center of Borrello. The fountain consists of three water jets that feed a watering trough for animals, as well as a long grooved stone washbasin, a technical detail that will reveal the customs of the past.

Redecorating Borrello's History

Borrello, like many small towns in Italy, preserves its ancient history, but it also needs to modernize to meet the future needs of its citizens. The local government is trying to renew the town and attract new visitors, making it accessible on a tourist level. Borrello is a true hidden treasure and, thanks to its investments, could become a very popular tourist destination in the future.

In Conclusion

Borrello is a hidden gem of mountainous Abruzzo. Thanks to its rich history and its historical and architectural treasures, Borrello is a place worth visiting. Its government is making great strides to improve the town's tourist accessibility, and its social activities are thriving thanks to the pride and affection of its inhabitants. If you want to discover a lesser-known part of Italy's history, Borrello is definitely the place for you.

Elisa Lombardi
Updated Thursday, Sep 22, 2022