Serramonacesca
Serramonacesca, an Abruzzo treasure
Hello everyone! Today I would like to talk about a small town located in the province of Pescara, Abruzzo, called Serramonacesca. Despite its small size, with only 511 inhabitants, it has a fascinating history that intertwines with the culture and art of the area.
Physical geography
Serramonacesca is located on a hill at 280 m above sea level on the northern side of the Maiella massif. The Alento River flows through its territory and heads east to the Adriatic. It can be admired that this town is like a jewel among the mountains, with a breathtaking view of the nature that surrounds it.
History
The history of the town dates back to the barbaric period, but its origin is linked to the construction of the Abbey of San Liberatore a Maiella, around 856. The name Serramonacesca derives from the toponym ''Monacesca'' which first appears in the 11th century to indicate the inhabited area represented on the bronze door of the Abbey of Montecassino.
During the 13th century, the village of Serramonacesca was part of the county of Manoppello, with some hamlets including "Castrum Polegrae". Later, in the 17th century, it became part of the domain of the Valignani. In 1806, Gioacchino Murat abolished church attendance, and the Abbey of San Liberatore was abandoned. In the 1960s, the village began to attract the attention of scholars of Abruzzese art, and the monastery was restored.
Monuments and places of interest
The beauty of Serramonacesca and its territory can be appreciated thanks to its monuments and places of interest.
The Abbey of San Liberatore a Maiella is one of the oldest examples of its kind in Abruzzo. This was founded around 856 and rebuilt in the 12th century. Today, thanks to restoration work in the 1960s, it is possible to visit the basilica that features a basilical plan with three naves and three apses. Along the left aisle, there are two doors with access to the still intact cloister. The central nave has a mosaic floor from 1275, while the façade has a square bell tower and a surface divided into three orders, cornices, and pilaster strips typical of Romanesque architecture.
Conclusions
In short, Serramonacesca is an Abruzzo jewel, far from the city frenzy and close to nature. The beauty of the ancient monuments, the picturesque atmosphere, and the breathtaking landscape make this town an ideal place for a day trip, a peaceful walk, or to learn about the history and culture of the area. I recommend everyone to visit and be fascinated by its beauty and history!
