Molina Aterno
Welcome to Molina Aterno!
Hello everyone, today I want to talk to you about Molina Aterno, a small town in the province of L'Aquila in Abruzzo. Molina Aterno is located in the heart of the Sirentina Mountain Community, surrounded by nature and breathtaking landscapes.
Origins of the Name
The name Molina Aterno comes from the Latin word "molina", which means mill, as the area is particularly rich in mills. The second part of the name, instead, was added on June 30, 1889 and refers to the Aterno river that crosses the territory.
History
Molina Aterno has ancient origins, dating back to the time of the Italici of Peligni and Vestini. In the 1st century BC, the city became a pagus under Roman rule. In the Middle Ages, it was linked to the Abbey of San Vincenzo al Volturno and had relationships with the cities of L'Aquila and Sulmona. In 1703, the city lost its fortified castle due to the Aquila earthquake and was subsequently expanded.
Symbol
The coat of arms and flag of the municipality of Molina Aterno were granted by decree of the President of the Republic on July 18, 1984. The flag is a split cloth of yellow and red.
Monuments and Points of Interest
Despite its ancient origins, Molina Aterno has well-preserved its cultural, artistic and religious heritage. Among the most important monuments in the town are the Church of San Nicola di Bari and the Church of Madonna del Colle.
The Church of San Nicola di Bari is the parish of the town, built in the 13th century and rebuilt after the Aquila earthquake of 1703. The late Renaissance-style façade retains the lunette of the Romanesque-style portal. The bell tower, instead, dates back to the 17th century and has a rectangular plan with two windows. The interior is a single nave and retains a Baroque altar with three niches for the statues.
The Church of Madonna del Colle is located on a hilltop and dates back to the 16th century. The façade, renovated over the years, retains the two carved portals with the symbol of the preaching of San Bernardino da Siena. The bell tower, instead, consists of a square base and an octagonal body with a window on each side.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Molina Aterno is a small Abruzzese village rich in history and culture. Its panoramic position and the beauty of its monuments make it an ideal destination for those who want to discover the authentic Italy outside the most beaten tourist circuits. Come and visit us, you are welcome in our wonderful municipality!
