Rocca San Giovanni
Rocca San Giovanni: A gem of the Trabocchi Coast
Rocca San Giovanni is a beautiful Abruzzo town, located in the province of Chieti and famous for its incredible panoramic view of the Trabocchi Coast. The town is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, offering tourists and residents a beautiful atmosphere, unique architecture, great food, and a rich history. In this article, we will explore the physical geography of the village, its history, monuments, and tourist attractions.
Physical geography: A terrace overlooking the sea
Rocca San Giovanni is located on a rocky hill, northeast of Lanciano, in the Abruzzo region. The municipal territory of Rocca San Giovanni extends over an area of 21.47 km², offering numerous natural and historical landscapes. But the most spectacular thing about Rocca San Giovanni is its view of the Trabocchi Coast. The beauty of the coast blends perfectly with the ancient architecture of the village and the surrounding nature, creating a unique feeling of peace and tranquility.
History: A town rich in history
Rocca San Giovanni was founded in the 11th century by Oderisio I and expanded by Oderisio II, both abbots of the San Giovanni in Venere Abbey, as a refuge for the abbey's monks. In 1346, the citizens of Lanciano attacked the town to steal the stored grain. Other historical events followed, such as the looting and burning of the town by Ugone Ursini, Count of Manoppello, in 1381, and the creation of a mint in 1453, where Innico I d'Avalos had gold, silver, and copper coins struck in his name. In 1863, then-mayor Giustino Croce vowed to eradicate banditry in the municipal territory, and the building was destroyed by the Nazis on November 8, 1943.
Monuments and points of interest: The magic of medieval architecture
The historic center of Rocca San Giovanni is an architectural masterpiece, a wonder of historic buildings that transport visitors to a medieval period of great charm. The most famous is the Church of San Matteo, one of the most visited attractions in the town. According to some reliable bibliographic sources, the original church was built inside the castrum of San Giovanni in Venere. The medieval building copies the San Giovanni in Venere Abbey on a smaller scale. Not far from here, you can visit the Palazzo Comunale, built between the late 1860s and the 1870s of the 19th century. The structure surprises with its Lombardian Neo-Medieval architecture, with a portico consisting of three round arches and balconies with perforated balustrades. Each portion of the old town is a true work of art, with ancient noble palaces and cobblestone streets that transport visitors to another era.
Conclusion: A place of encounter between history and nature
Rocca San Giovanni is definitely a must-visit for anyone visiting the Trabocchi Coast. The town offers a combination of history, art, and nature that makes it unique and fascinating. If you're interested in history or ancient architecture, we recommend visiting the Church of San Matteo and the Palazzo Comunale. But the true attraction of Rocca San Giovanni is the magic of its location, which offers a spectacular view of the beautiful Trabocchi Coast. The beauty of this place is appreciated by tourists from all over the world, looking for peace and relaxation. So, if you have the opportunity to visit Abruzzo and want to experience something unique, don't hesitate to stop in Rocca San Giovanni.
