Fossacesia

Welcome to Fossacesia, the Pearl of the Trabocchi Coast

Hello everyone! Welcome to Fossacesia, a charming seaside town on the Trabocchi Coast, located in Abruzzo, Italy. This splendid city, which has been awarded a blue flag since 2004, is famous for its picturesque trabocchi and the suggestive Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere.

An overview of the geography

Fossacesia is located on a hill to the left of the mouth of the Sangro river and is about 2 kilometers from the coast. The city is famous for its beaches consisting of white pebbles, but also for the sandy dunes and rocks dotted along the coast. The fraction of Fossacesia Marina also develops along the coast and offers a suggestive panorama of the small bay called "Gulf of Venus".

The city extends for about 30 square kilometers and offers panoramic views of the Sangro river plain towards Lanciano. The territory, intensively cultivated, is famous for the production of olive oil and wine.

Fossacesia: pearl of the Trabocchi Coast.

A brief history of Fossacesia

Fossacesia was founded in the 9th century by Benedictine monks from Farfa, who created a court, an agricultural and administrative company around which the city developed. In 1004, the Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere was founded by the Count of Chieti.

Over the centuries, the city has undergone the influence of various powers, including Emperor Henry VI of Swabia, who in 1195 granted the city a nearby location called Fossamcaecam. In the 16th century, the abbey was devastated by Saracen attacks.

Subsequently, the city passed under the dominion of the de Rubeis, but by the end of the 18th century it had become Terra Regia. In the 17th century, the city gave birth to the major ancient historians and archaeologists of Lanciano and the Frentano territory.

The attractions of Fossacesia

If you decide to visit this splendid city, there are some attractions that you cannot miss. The Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere is undoubtedly the most famous, with its ancient structure dominating the promontory overlooking the Adriatic. This structure was rebuilt by Abbot Oderisio II in the 12th century and has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries.

But it is not just the abbey that makes it famous. Fossacesia has also become known for its picturesque trabocchi, the ancient machines used for fishing, often also used as restaurants. In addition, the city offers a panoramic view of the hills of the Abruzzo hinterland and the Adriatic coast.

How to reach Fossacesia

Fossacesia is easily accessible by car, both from Pescara airport and from Chieti railway station. If you travel by train, you can take the Adriatic railway line and get off at Fossacesia-Torino di Sangro station. If you travel by car, you can reach the city via the A14 motorway, exiting at the Val di Sangro tollgate.

Conclusions

Fossacesia is one of the most beautiful and well-known cities on the Trabocchi Coast, with its ancient Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere and its picturesque trabocchi overlooking the sea. This city offers panoramic views of the Sangro river plain towards Lanciano and the mountains of the Abruzzo hinterland. Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, Fossacesia is the perfect destination to spend unforgettable holidays in the nature and culture of Abruzzo.

Elisa Lombardi
Updated Friday, Sep 16, 2022