Rocca di Cambio
Rocca di Cambio: the highest municipality in the Appennines
Hello friends, today I will tell you about one of the highest municipalities in the Appennines: Rocca di Cambio. This town is located in Abruzzo, in the province of L'Aquila, within the regional natural park Sirente-Velino. With its 489 inhabitants, Rocca di Cambio is famous for being the highest municipality in the Appennines and for the ski resort of Campo Felice located within its territory.
Physical geography
The municipality is located on the northern edges of the Rocche plateau, in the mountain range of Velino-Sirente. The territory is very mountainous and extends up to Mount Rotondo, which is also in the territory of Rocca di Mezzo. Rocca di Cambio also includes the territory of Monte Cagno and the southern part of the Campo Felice plain.
Climate
The climate of Rocca di Cambio is typical of medium-altitude mountain areas. In winter it is very cold and snowy, while summer is dry and the temperature is moderated by the altitude.
Origin of the name
The name of the municipality comes from Mount Cagno, at whose slopes the town is located. In the past, the name was Rocca, which means "fortification."
History
Rocca di Cambio is a medieval village founded by the Lombards in the ninth century and later settled by the local abbey of Santa Lucia in the twelfth century. In the 1200s, it participated in the founding of L'Aquila under the Angevins, remaining under their control in the following centuries.
With the French reforms of the 19th century, Rocca di Cambio lost its administrative autonomy and became a fraction of Rocca di Mezzo, but then became an autonomous municipality again in 1849. On the economic level, the center remained tied to agriculture and pastoralism until the mid-20th century.
The modernization of the town began after World War II, and Mayor Aldo Jacovitti managed to have the Giro d'Italia pass through Rocca di Cambio in 1965, contributing to its national fame.
Conclusion
Here is the fascinating history and geographical characteristics of Rocca di Cambio. A small town immersed in nature, with a millenary history and a renowned ski resort. Don't miss the opportunity to visit it and discover all its beauties. See you next time!
