Castel Frentano
Welcome to Castel Frentano, the city of history and culture
Located in the beautiful region of Abruzzo, Castel Frentano is a city rich in history and culture. With a population of about 4,236 inhabitants, this municipality in the province of Chieti was formerly known as "Castel Nuovo", but to avoid confusion with other Italian municipalities with the same name, it was renamed "Castel Frentano". The name is derived from the historical territory of Frentania, today's Sangro Valley, where the city is located and from which it dominates the surrounding area.
History
Ancient times
Archaeological excavations carried out by the Superintendency for Archaeological Heritage of Abruzzo have shown that the area adjacent to Castel Frentano was already inhabited in the Neolithic period, with remains of huts dating back to this period. In addition, a necropolis dating back to the 4th century BC and a mosaic from the 1st-2nd century AD demonstrate a continuity of settlement in the municipality's territory.
Middle Ages
With the beginning of the Middle Ages, the first written mentions of settlements in the territory of Castel Frentano are found. La Faricciola, of Lombard origin, is mentioned in notarial documents until the 16th century. Lentesco, mentioned in a diploma from 1195 by Henry VI of Swabia, was donated by the Abbey of Farfa. San Tommaso, today known as Colle San Tommaso, is mentioned in the same document. Castrum Octaviani, later called Guasto or Vasto Inferiore, is mentioned in a document from 1087 concerning a transaction between the bishop of Chieti and the abbot of the Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere. The main nucleus of the city was built between the Carolingian period and the 11th century.
Modern age
In 1633, Castel Frentano came into possession of the Bonanni family, and then passed to the Brancaccio family the following year.
Art and Culture
The Sanctuary of the Assumption
The Sanctuary of the Assumption is a unique work of art. It was built between the 1500s and 1600s, and consists of a large three-naved church with an elegant terracotta bell tower. The church houses important works of art, including the Expulsion of the Rebel Angels from Paradise, which is located in the sacristy.
Archaeological remains
Castel Frentano is rich in archaeological remains, such as the Necropolis of San Giovanni and the Roman Mosaic, which demonstrate the importance of the city throughout history.
The Castle of Castel Frentano
The symbol of Castel Frentano is the Castle, built between the Carolingian period and the 11th century. The castle was erected on the hill near the city, from which it dominates the surrounding territory.
Typical cuisine
The cuisine of Castel Frentano reflects the gastronomic tradition of Abruzzo. Among the most famous specialties are La Timballo, a sort of lasagna filled with eggplants, mozzarella, hard-boiled eggs, and tomato sauce, and sagne chine, a hand-made pasta seasoned with meat sauce and pecorino cheese.
Events
Castel Frentano is a city full of life thanks to a series of events that animate the entire area, such as the Festival of Saint Anthony the Abbot, during which fairs, shows, and concerts are organized.
Conclusion
Castel Frentano is a city full of history, culture, and gastronomic tradition. The city is located in a strategic position, from which it is possible to admire the charm of the Abruzzo territory. Come and visit us!
