Villa Badessa
A friendly guide to Villa Badessa
Hello friends! Today I want to talk to you about Villa Badessa, a picturesque village located in the province of Pescara, famous for being one of the many Arbëreshë communities in central-southern Italy.
Physical geography
Villa Badessa is situated at 161 m above sea level along a low ridge in the heart of the valley where the Nora river flows. Here, surrounded by greenery, you will find centuries-old oak trees, olive groves, and vineyards, while the majestic Majella and Gran Sasso frame the landscape.
History
Background
The history of Villa Badessa is incredible and fascinating. This community, founded in the 18th century, is closely linked to the soldiers of the Royal Macedonian Regiment who recruited 25 Albanians, relatives of soldiers, asking them to be temporarily housed in the Kingdom of Naples. King Charles III of Spain accepted the request and allocated 3,000 gold ducats to support travel expenses from Albania to the Kingdom of Naples.
The Foundation
These Albanians built their new home in the area called Villa Badessa, where traces of Eastern culture are still present, Albanian is still spoken, and the Byzantine rite is still practiced. In addition, the community is protected by Italian legislation safeguarding historical linguistic minorities.
What to visit in Villa Badessa
The Artistic Heritage
The artistic heritage of Villa Badessa is very fascinating and linked to the Eastern religious tradition. The Church of San Nicola, dating back to the 18th century, is an example of Baroque architecture that incorporates typical elements of the Byzantine rite. Inside the church, you will find beautiful frescoes, icons, and sculptures that will enchant you.
The Civic Museum
The Civic Museum of Villa Badessa is one of the main attractions of the village. Here, you can admire numerous sacred art objects and ancient artifacts, such as the 17th-century Byzantine silver cross.
What to do in Villa Badessa
Cultural Events
Villa Badessa is renowned for its culture and for the celebration of important religious events. On December 6th, the feast of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of the village, is celebrated with a beautiful religious procession that attracts numerous visitors.
Typical Cuisine
In this village, you can taste the typical Arbëreshë cuisine, characterized by intense flavors and tasty dishes. I recommend trying the Sarde a Beccafico and the Coniglio alla Cacciatora, two of the most famous traditional dishes in the area.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Villa Badessa is a charming place that embodies the history and culture of the Albanian community that inhabits it. The beauty of the landscape, the artistic heritage, and the culinary tradition make it an ideal destination to spend a few days with friends and family. If you are traveling between Pescara and the Majella National Park, don't miss the opportunity to visit this wonderful Arbëreshë village.
