Sant'Eusanio Forconese
Discovering the Municipality of Sant'Eusanio Forconese
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the discovery of the Municipality of Sant'Eusanio Forconese? This small Abruzzese town, located in the province of L'Aquila and part of the "Amiternina mountain community", boasts an ancient and fascinating history dating back to the 4th century.
History
Origins
The origins of Sant'Eusanio Forconese are very ancient. It was formerly called "Cinque Ville" for the five villages of which it was composed: "Castellina", "Castello", "Monticchio", "San Pietro" and "Carmiscione". The current name is due to the martyrdom of Eusanio di Siponto in the 4th century.
From the Middle Ages to the 18th century
For a long time, the municipality was part of the Piccolomini possessions, and then passed to the Barberini family who built a palace in the 17th century. Little is known about the ancient history of this town before the arrival of the priest Eusanio, who came from Gargano to evangelize this area of Abruzzo, where pagan gods were still worshiped.
Legend of the foundation
At that time, Emperor Maximian reigned and local power was exercised by the prefect Prisco di Aveia (now Fossa), under whom there were atrocious persecutions. Legend has it that he was martyred, as depicted by the fresco that dominates behind the main altar of the basilica dedicated to him, which portrays him with his heart in his hand.
Earthquakes
The center has been affected by various earthquakes, the largest of which occurred in 1461, 1703, and finally the L'Aquila earthquake of 2009. The Basilica, in particular, has suffered damage on the upper façade, with partial collapse of the part around the rose window.
Symbols
The municipal coat of arms was granted by decree of the President of the Republic on February 3, 1998.
Monuments and places of interest
Basilica of Sant'Eusanio Martire
The current basilica is the result of reconstructions and renovations that have taken place over the centuries due to frequent earthquakes that hit the area. Only a few remains of the original layout from the 8th-9th centuries remain, as the basilica was completely rebuilt in 1198 in Romanesque style with three aisles, with a crypt divided into seven small aisles with cross vaults supported by columns that are all different from each other.
Life in the community of Sant'Eusanio Forconese
The municipality of Sant'Eusanio Forconese has only 355 inhabitants but is a place full of life and tradition. Here you can breathe the air of the village, with all its colors and scents, and get to know its hospitable and friendly inhabitants.
Festivals and traditions
Sant'Eusanio Forconese is a municipality very tied to its traditions and festivals. Among the most important, we remember the "Sagra degli Gnocchi" (Gnocchi Festival) and the Feast of Sant'Eusanio Martire, whose cult is alive in the population.
Food and typical products
The local cuisine is typical of the Abruzzese tradition, with dishes prepared with genuine ingredients, starting from the excellent potatoes, ingredients for the exquisite gnocchi served at the Gnocchi Festival.
The beauty of the landscape
The Municipality of Sant'Eusanio Forconese is located in the lower Valle dell'Aterno and surrounded by beautiful mountains covered with oak and chestnut woods, with numerous trails for small walks and trekking.
If you are looking for an authentic place in contact with nature, Sant'Eusanio Forconese is the perfect place for you. Come and discover the beauty of this Abruzzese locality nestled in the mountains, far from the stress of the city.
