San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore
San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore: a town with a breathtaking panoramic view
San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore is an Italian town located in the province of Pescara, in Abruzzo. With a population of 1823 inhabitants, this charming town is situated in the foothills of the Maiella and Morrone Mountains, at an altitude of 450 meters above sea level. Thanks to its panoramic position, it offers a breathtaking view of the Pescara river valley towards the Adriatic sea.
The origin of the name of San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore
San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore has had several denotations throughout its history. The town originated during prehistoric times when the first communities settled in the area. In 1040, the castle of San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore was mentioned in some historical sources with the name "Castel della Pietra." The name of San Valentino was added to its denomination following the translation of the remains of Saints Valentino and Damiano from Terracina. In 1863, with the proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy, the town was renamed San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore, becoming the Italian town with the longest name and causing some difficulties with postal operations.
The history of San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore
The first traces of human presence in the area of San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore date back to prehistoric times. In the year 1000, the inhabitants of the area decided to build a fortification to protect themselves from barbarian attacks. In 1006, the town was officially founded. Until 1182, it was known as "Castrum de Petra" in the "Chronicon casauriense." Later, the locality was so named following the martyrdom of the brothers Valentino and Damiano in a village in the Zappino area.
During the 14th century, the town was dominated by the Orsini and Acquaviva di Atri families before being destroyed by Braccio da Montone in 1423. In 1487, San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore passed to Ferdinando d'Aragona, who sold it to Organtino Orsini in 1507, who in turn sold the castle to the De Tolfa family. In 1583, the town passed to the Farnese family, who sold it to Margherita d'Austria, who restored the castle. With the proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy in 1860, San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore was also affected by brigandage.
Monuments and places of interest
The town of San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore is rich in monuments and places of interest. Among the religious architecture, we can highlight the Cathedral of Saints Valentino and Damiano, an eighteenth-century church with a double bell tower.
The natural beauty of San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore makes this town an ideal place to relax, enjoy the panoramic view, and immerse yourself in Italian history and culture.
