Campo di Giove
Campo di Giove: Between Mountains, History and Tradition
Campo di Giove is a municipality located at the foothills of the western part of Maiella, in Abruzzo. Founded by the Roman Civilization in 300 BCE and documented since the 11th century, Campo di Giove has a long history characterized by attacks and damages caused by earthquakes. Nevertheless, the city was recognized as a decorated city for civil merit, thanks to the resistance shown during World War II.
The Territory
The municipality borders with Pacentro, Cansano, and, to the south, with Palena. The altitude varies from Fonte della Valle to Tavola Rotonda, with the old town situated on the slope of a hill and the new buildings on a plateau. In the territory, there is a lake of karst origin, Lake Ticino, which is mostly reduced to a pond. The small water sources along the Maiella slopes, which flow from the altitude of Fonte della Valle, contribute to the formation of the landscape.
Hydrology
Lake Ticino, with its natural environment, is a peculiarity of Maiella National Park. It dates back to the 14th century when it was used for irrigation purposes and belonged to the dominion of the spouses Simone di Sangro and Lorenza di Licinardo. Some small water sources are present, left by the altitude ranging from 600 to 1700 meters of Fonte della Valle.
Geology and Morphology
The slopes of Tavola Rotonda and Porrara Mountain that surround the city to the northeast and southeast take shape from karst phenomena, traces of biostromal limestone from the Cretaceous, and terrigenous deposits from the Miocene Messinian. Below the slopes are Avana and whitish oolitic calcilutites with macro- and microfossils. The altitude of the mountainous area varies, from the minimum of Fonte della Valle to the maximum near Tavola Rotonda.
Urban Expansion
Despite the damages suffered by earthquakes, the city experienced a growing urban expansion that led it to become, over the years, a summer and winter resort. A point of attraction for tourists, it was crossed by the Sulmona-Isernia railway and had its own ski resort.
Local Tradition
Campo di Giove is characterized by a traditional vocation in the primary sector and is renowned for high-quality breeding aimed at the production of milk and cheese. The inhabitants are proud of their history and land, keeping alive ancient traditions and preparing typical dishes with local ingredients.
In conclusion, Campo di Giove is a municipality that offers a unique experience to tourists, thanks to its lush nature, millennial history, and culinary tradition. An ideal place to relax and immerse oneself in the beauty of Abruzzo's nature.
