Fraine
Fraine: a hidden gem in Abruzzo to discover
If you are looking for a peaceful town to spend a few days away from the chaos of the city, Fraine might be the perfect destination for you. Located in the province of Chieti, in Abruzzo, this small town with only 274 inhabitants belongs to the Sangro Vastese Mountain Community and is characterized by a relaxing and familiar atmosphere. Let's discover together the history, monuments and events of Fraine, a hidden gem in Abruzzo to discover.
History
The origins of Fraine date back to the 12th century, when the town was already present in the territory. Later, there were several noble dominations, including that of the Caracciolo family. In a document of the Archdiocese of Chieti-Vasto of 1323, there is reference to Fraine Superiore and Fraine Inferiore, the latter called Frainelle.
Symbols
The banner of Fraine is a split piece of white and yellow, while the coat of arms was granted by decree of the President of the Republic on June 5, 2001.
Monuments and places of interest
Fortified village with tower
The fortified village of Fraine dates back to the 13th century and has undergone various transformations over the centuries. In the northeast area, it is divided into concentric rings, while in the east the blocks are arranged in a comb-like shape. In the northwest area there are the Church of San Silvestro and Palazzo Tilli. It seems that the tower was located in the former Tilli oil mill and that it was visually connected to the tower of Frainelle, a disappeared urban center located in the locality of Castello. Today, only the toponym "Largo della Torre" remains of the tower. It is not possible to fully reconstruct the layout of the walls or the house-walls, but some houses can be noticed in Via del Sole and those below the church and Palazzo Tilli. The streets are paved with river pebbles and the materials used are limestone and gray sandstone, as well as brick.
Church of San Silvestro Pope
The Church of San Silvestro Pope is located in Via Piano della Torre and was built before 1568. The bell tower is divided into several registers by a marcapiano frame and has a square plan with a full arch. The interior of the church is a single nave, with a barrel and lunette ceiling. The nave is composed of three chapels on each side, each with its own altar and statues of the saints; in the 18th century, they were decorated with stuccoes. Above a choir supported by two pillars, there is an organ with tempera paintings depicting floral motifs.
Sanctuary of Santa Maria Mater Domini
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria Mater Domini is located in the locality of Bosco delle Vicenne. In 1056, two Lombards founded a Benedictine monastery dedicated to Mary as the mother of Jesus, with Abbot Alberto appointed as the leader. The lack of documents from the following years indicates a decline of the building, confirmed in 1324-1325 when it became a simple church subject to the jurisdiction of the Abbey of Sant'Angelo in Cornacchiano located in Fresagrandinaria. Later, the lands of the church were acquired by the Caracciolo family, who chose the rectors of the church from their own family. The presence of archaeological material in the area suggests that the church was built on a pre-existing pagan temple.
Society
Demographic evolution
The population of Fraine has decreased from 338 inhabitants in 1861 to only 274 in 2019. The decrease in population has been caused mainly by youth migration to the cities, although in recent years some families have chosen to return and start businesses in agriculture and tourism.
Culture
Events
Fraine is a town that, despite its small size, offers several events and festivals throughout the year. Among these, we highlight:
- Feast of Santa Maria Mater Domini (May 30th and 31st and June 1st): a religious festival in honor of the patron saint of the church located in the locality of Bosco delle Vicenne.
- Feast of San Vincenzo Ferrer and San Rocco (August 19th and 20th): a festival in honor of the patron saints of the town.
- Historical re-enactment "Fragine Medievale" (August 17th): an event that retraces the medieval history of the village with costumes, music and dances of the era.
Discovering Fraine is an experience that will allow you to appreciate the beauty of Abruzzo's nature, the history of an ancient town, and the friendliness of its inhabitants. If you are looking for a destination away from everyday stress, Fraine is the perfect destination for you. What are you waiting for to discover this hidden gem of Abruzzo?
