Rapino
Rapino: a city in Abruzzo
Hello friends! Today I'll talk to you about Rapino, a small town located in the province of Chieti, in Abruzzo. With a population of just under 1200 inhabitants, Rapino is a delightful place that offers many attractions to tourists who visit it. Let's begin our journey to discover this wonderful city!
Physical geography
Territory
Rapino lies at the foot of the northeastern slope of the Maiella and is crossed by streams that are tributaries of the Foro River. The city extends over an area that reaches an altitude of 1900 meters near the Bruno Pomilio Refuge. For most of its surface, Rapino is part of the Maiella National Park.
Climate
Although Rapino is situated in a mountainous area, the climate of the city is temperate cool-mediterranean. During the winter, the temperatures can drop quite low, registering an average of 5 degrees C in January, while during the summer, the temperatures can reach up to 23 degrees C. Rainfall is concentrated mainly in spring and autumn and can be abundant in the winter months.
History
The first traces of settlements in Rapino date back to the Middle and Upper Paleolithic. The city was colonized by monks from the Order of Saint Benedict and was subjected to the monastery of San Salvatore in Maiella for many centuries. In the fifteenth century, Rapino became a fiefdom of the Orsini family and then of the Colonna family in Rome until the abolition of feudalism.
Honors
The main square of Rapino, named after Amilcare Paolucci, hosts a statue dedicated to the military man from the city, decorated with the Medal of Valor for his courage during World War I. In addition, Rapino was awarded the War Cross of Military Valour for the sacrifices of its people and for their activity in the partisans' struggle during World War II.
Tourist Attractions
Rapino is famous for its ceramics productions and hosts a museum dedicated to this ancient art. The city was awarded the title of "City of Oil" for its cultivation of Olea europaea, and visitors can taste the local olive oil at the many farms in the area.
Points of Interest
Colle Cave and Colle Tower
One of Rapino's main points of interest is the Colle Cave, where the statue of the "Goddess of Rapino" dating back to the Middle and Upper Paleolithic was found. In addition, visitors can visit the nearby Colle Tower, where other archaeological evidence is preserved.
Civic Museum of Ceramics
The Civic Museum of Ceramics is another place worth a visit. The museum hosts a vast collection of ceramics, including plates, vases, and other objects made by local master ceramists.
Church of Saint John the Baptist
The Church of Saint John the Baptist is another tourist attraction of Rapino. Built in the fifteenth century, the church features a Gothic-Romanesque style and has recently been renovated.
If you're looking for a quiet and suggestive place to spend a few days of peace and relaxation, Rapino is the perfect destination for you. With its unspoiled nature, millenary history, and hospitality, this city will win you over at first sight. Come to visit us, we're waiting for you!
