Melone
Melone: a hillside hamlet of Guardiagrele
Melone is a small hamlet located at the foot of the Maiella mountain range in Guardiagrele. This hilly area is home to around 150 residents, who mainly live in the districts of Fraie and Melone.
Physical Geography
Territory
The territory of Melone is hilly and offers a breathtaking landscape of the Maiella. This area is perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation away from the chaos of the city.
History
The Medieval Castle and the Church of Sant'Angelo
In the past, Melone was home to a large Medieval castle dating back to the 9th century, known as "Sant'Angelo in Trifinio". The castle was located at a point that served as a border between Castelnuovo (now Castelfrentano), Orsogna and Guardiagrele. However, the castle and the adjacent church were already in decay in the 18th century, as reported in Francesco Paolo Ranieri's "Historical and Monumental Memoirs of Guardiagrele". Over the years, the castle has almost completely disappeared, and there is nothing left of the ruins that should be located near Colle Martino.
The Railway Station and World War II
Until 1982, Melone was also known as "Guardiagrele Scalo" because it was located in the area where the Sangritana Railway was located. Many inhabitants of the village, in fact, used this railway line to move to neighboring towns. During World War II, it is said that the baronial palace, located near Melone, was used by the Nazi German Army as a fortress. As a result of the Allied bombing in December 1943, the palace and the center of the village were completely destroyed.
Church of Sant'Antonio
The Church of Sant'Antonio is the main monument of Melone. This small building is located after the intersection to Guardiagrele coming from Lanciano. The structure was built at the beginning of the twentieth century and is a large rectangular chapel plastered in white. The façade features a pointed arch portal and three windows beside it, in perfect gothic style. The bell tower consists of a tower that turns into a sail-like structure, whose roof is sloping. The interior is very simple and features decorative elements both in the paintings of the Via Crucis and in the statue of the saint.
Economy
Melone has a craft area that counts around three or four businesses. This economic area has developed in recent years, providing employment and opportunities in the area.
Notes
Melone is one of the hamlets of Guardiagrele, located in a hilly area near the Maiella. This area offers multiple opportunities for leisure and relaxation thanks also to the presence of the Church of Sant'Antonio, the main monument of the village. Furthermore, the craft area that rises in the hamlet could be an inspiration for those seeking job opportunities in a quiet environment and in contact with nature.
