Camarda
Camarda: an ancient village located at the foot of Gran Sasso
Camarda is a hamlet of the city of L'Aquila, located along the state road 17-bis that goes from Bazzano to Campo Imperatore passing through several localities, including Camarda. The village is located on the western slopes of Gran Sasso, at about 800 meters above sea level.
Camarda's origins date back to the Early Middle Ages when a Lombard raid pushed many inhabitants of "Forcona" to take refuge in the surrounding areas. According to legend, the name Camarda derives from the cry "Cama ardet!", shouted by the farmers who saw their sheaves burning, which some Lombard soldiers had set fire to. Subsequently, Camarda was one of the villages that contributed to the foundation of L'Aquila.
The history of Camarda: from a Municipality to a hamlet of L'Aquila
In the 19th century, Camarda was elected a Municipality, but soon lost this title to become simply one of the hamlets of L'Aquila. The territory of the former Municipality now constitutes the ninth district of L'Aquila, apart from the portion where Aragno stands, which is included in the territorial council of participation number eight with Collebrincioni, San Giacomo, San Francesco, and Torrione. The towns that were part of the Municipality of Camarda in 1927 were: Camarda, Filetto, Assergi, Aragno, and Pescomaggiore.
Monuments and places of interest: the feudal castle
Camarda boasts various monuments and places of interest, including the 11th-century feudal castle. This building is located on the highest point of the village hill and was built by Atenulfo di Tempera. In the 18th century, the castle was still in good condition, but was gutted by the earthquake of 1703, which left only the buttressed tower and part of the perimeter masonry standing.
The rhyming novella "La Bella di Camarda"
Camarda is also known in literature thanks to the rhyming novella entitled "La bella di Camarda," a work by Emidio Cappelli, published in 1857 and reprinted in 1858.
Camarda today: a hamlet of L'Aquila
Today, Camarda is one of the hamlets of the city of L'Aquila. Although it is a small and little-known village, Camarda boasts an ancient and interesting history, which makes it a fascinating place to visit. Those who decide to spend time in this village will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history of Abruzzo and discover an authentic and less touristy corner of the region.
Moreover, Camarda's strategic location, at the foot of Gran Sasso, offers the possibility of excursions and trekking to discover the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
In conclusion, Camarda represents an interesting and fascinating place to visit for those who love history and nature, but also for those who seek an authentic and less touristy corner of Abruzzo.
