Tocco da Casauria
Discovering Tocco da Casauria
Are you looking for a picturesque Abruzzese village nestled in nature? Tocco da Casauria could be the destination you are looking for. This Italian municipality located in the province of Pescara, Abruzzo, has about 2,500 inhabitants and is situated on a hill in the western part of the Val Pescara. Let's discover its peculiarities together.
Physical geography
Territory
The municipality is situated at 356 meters above sea level and is crossed by the Pescara river and the Arolle stream. Worth a visit is the Tocco da Casauria hydroelectric power plant that harnesses the power of the river for the production of electricity. For nature lovers, the municipal territory also offers the opportunity to explore the Tremonti Gorges, located on the border with the Municipality of Popoli.
Climate
The municipality's climate is characterized by hot and dry summers and mild winters, with temperatures that rarely drop below zero.
Origin of the name
The name Tocco da Casauria derives from its medieval foundation around the Caracciolo Castle. In 1862, after the proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy, it was decided to rename the municipality to distinguish it from another municipality with the same name in the province of Benevento. Among the proposals were "Tocco di Abruzzo" and "Tocco Tremonti", but in the end the name "Tocco Casauria" was chosen for its historical traditions linked to the Abbey of San Clemente in Casauria.
History
Ancient times
Despite its medieval foundation, the territory of Tocco da Casauria hosted an ancient settlement of probable Peligni origin called Interpronium. Its location is not known with certainty, but it is believed to have been destroyed by natural disasters like earthquakes or floods.
From the Middle Ages to modern times
The first news about Tocco reported in the Chronicon Casauriense dates back to the 19th century. In the 12th century, the territory was part of the county of Manoppello, passing in succession to the Pagliara, Plessis, Colonna, Sully and finally to the Acquaviva families. During this period, a settlement began to develop around the church of Sant'Eustachio and the castle, which became important for its strategic position.
Art and culture
If you are passionate about art and culture, do not miss a visit to the Abbey of San Clemente in Casauria, located a few kilometers from the municipality. This Romanesque masterpiece is one of the most important monuments in Abruzzo and is often referred to as the most beautiful achievement of Gothic-Romanesque architecture. The abbey preserves artistically valuable assets, including the famous Ciborium of San Clemente and the baptismal font.
Typical cuisine
Local cuisine is closely linked to peasant tradition and the raw materials of the territory. Among the typical products we find the compound of pork meats, namely sausage, ham and bacon, ricotta cheese, potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Do not miss the tasting of typical dishes such as lamb skewers and the Abruzzese timbale.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Tocco da Casauria is the perfect place for a nature vacation to discover local culture and good Abruzzese food. Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Tremonti Gorges, admire the Abbey of San Clemente in Casauria, delight your palate with typical products, and be enchanted by the millennia-old history of this small Abruzzese municipality.
