Montebello sul Sangro

Welcome to Montebello sul Sangro: Let's discover this small Abruzzo town together

Montebello sul Sangro is a small town located in the province of Chieti in Abruzzo. With only 79 inhabitants, it is one of the least populated towns in the region and in Italy.

However, behind this small reality lies an ancient and fascinating history, also enclosed in the legend of Malanotte. Let's discover its history, symbols and places of interest together.

History: from the Middle Ages to Today

Known in the 12th century as Malanotte, it later became a fiefdom of several families including the Caldora and the Malvinni-Malvezzi. Until the 1960s, the town was known as Buonanotte due to a medieval legend, which told of a tribute imposed on the town by the victorious troops after the defeat of the feudal lord.

Unfortunately, in the 1950s and 1960s, a landslide destroyed the old town of Buonanotte and the old town became uninhabitable. Thus, a new center was built near the Pennadomo valley.

Montebello sul Sangro: history and legend of a small Abruzzo commune.

The legend of Malanotte

The legend of Malanotte tells of a tribute imposed on the women of the town by the victorious troops after the defeat of the feudal lord. Thus, the castle where the outrage took place became known as the "Castle of Malanotte".

Symbols of the town

The coat of arms and flag of the town of Montebello sul Sangro were granted by the President of the Republic in 2013. The flag is blue.

Monuments and places of interest

The historic center of Montebello sul Sangro is divided into the districts of "Il paese nuovo" and "Il paese vecchio". In the new district you can admire the Church of Santa Giusta (dating back to the early 20th century, but with original architectural style), the public park and the monuments to the fallen of World War II and Padre Pio.

To reach the old district, perched on a hill above the new district, you can cross a forest near the gallery carved into the rock.

Montebello sul Sangro can be considered a true hidden jewel of Abruzzo, rich in history and treasures to discover. If you are looking for an escape from the hectic city life, this town will offer you an oasis of peace and tranquility.

Elisa Lombardi
Updated Saturday, Mar 12, 2022