Caprafico
Culture and traditions
Festivals and events
According to the 2011 census, the village of Caprafico has around 220 inhabitants, marking a 50% decrease in less than a century. Most young people leave the country to find work and study elsewhere, while most of the elderly stay behind, keeping the tradition and history of the village alive. Nevertheless, Caprafico becomes a sought-after destination for tourists every summer, especially foreigners, who seek tranquillity, nature, good food, and wine.
Caprafico is known throughout the regional territory for the festival of San Rocco, which takes place every year on August 16th. The festival starts on the Saturday before the holiday and lasts until the following Tuesday. During this time, horse parades, folk games, concerts, fireworks, and, above all, eating and drinking take place, with the sale of local products such as pecorino cheese, porchetta, arrosticino, homemade sweets, and, of course, the local Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wine. But the most anticipated festival is undoubtedly that of San Giovanni Battista, the patron saint of the village, which takes place on the last weekend of June. On this occasion, some religious rites, such as the procession of the saint through the streets of the village, take place, but games and events are also organized for both adults and children.
Economy
Agriculture and livestock farming
The economy of the village revolves mainly around agriculture and livestock farming. Caprafico is famous for its pecorino cheese, produced with the milk of sheep that graze freely on the green pastures of the area. The cheese, with its strong and characteristic taste, is produced locally and is sold not only locally but also throughout the national territory. Caprafico is also known for its production of extra-virgin olive oil, extracted from olives strictly cultivated in its fields.
Tourism
In recent years, Caprafico has become an increasingly popular tourist destination, particularly due to the beauty of its unspoiled nature, gentle landscapes, and the tranquillity that is breathed in. Not surprisingly, many farmhouses and B&Bs have been popping up lately, offering tourists a veritable enogastronomic experience, discovering the tastes and aromas of these places.
Conclusions
Caprafico is a village that is resisting the changing times, keeping its history and traditions alive. Despite the decrease in inhabitants, the village continues to welcome tourists and visitors, thanks to the beauty of its nature, the goodness of its food and wine, and the availability and cordiality of its inhabitants. It is an ideal destination for those who want to escape the stress of the city and immerse themselves in the peace of the Abruzzo countryside.
