Villa Santa Maria
Welcome to Villa Santa Maria, the homeland of Abruzzese chefs!
Hello everyone! Today I will talk to you about a beautiful Abruzzese town, Villa Santa Maria. With its 1111 inhabitants of the province of Chieti, Villa Santa Maria conquers our hearts thanks to its culinary tradition and the numerous presence of chefs. The town is famous for its chef shop dating back to the XIII century. Does anyone know what I'm talking about?
History: Villa Santa Maria from its origins to World War II
According to the Kronicon Vulturnense, Villa Santa Maria developed around the eighth century together with the construction of the church dedicated to Santa Maria in Basilica. The Middle Sangro area near the city was already inhabited in Italic times. During the barbarian and Ottoman invasions, it was assaulted several times, forcing people to take refuge at the rock called "La Penna". Later, the feud passed through different families, but the highlight was with the Caracciolo family in the XVI century. During World War II, Villa Santa Maria hosted some families of Jewish refugees. Roberto Castracane, the mayor of the town, prevented German troops from accessing Jews in the town. Thanks to Castracane's action, the Steinberg family was able to leave the town and reach the Allies.
Archaeology
Inside the church of Santa Maria in Basilica, it is possible to admire some artifacts collected during the construction of a methane pipeline. In the artifacts, we find ceramic and brick fragments, workshop stamps originally placed in coverings and pavements, or as handles and necks of amphorae and a dolium.
Gastronomy in Villa Santa Maria
The town in question is known as the "Homeland of Chefs". In the XVI century, Saint Francis Caracciolo was born there, considered the "patron" of chefs. In the sixties of the XX century, a hotel institute was built to preserve tradition, and the "chef's museum" was established in the Caracciolo palace.
In the culinary field, Villa Santa Maria is famous for its delicacies and the presence of exceptional chefs. Not surprisingly, the entire town is considered a high-quality laboratory for Abruzzese cuisine. You can taste the typical Abruzzese arrosticino, fish soups, spaghetti with clams, grilled lamb, and much more. Everything is cooked with organic ingredients from the area.
Visiting Villa Santa Maria
If you are passionate about food and gastronomy, Villa Santa Maria is the right place for you. You can visit the historic chef's museum and learn all the culinary techniques from the beginning of time. Moreover, Villa Santa Maria is an excellent choice for those who love hiking and trekking on foot or by bike in the pristine nature. The town is located near the mountain range of the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park.
Conclusions
In summary, Villa Santa Maria is a small town in the province of Chieti that boasts a great culinary tradition thanks to the presence of high-level master chefs. Its history is connected to the evolution of the dynasties that ruled in the Sangro area. If you are in Abruzzo, do not forget to visit it and try the delicacies of Abruzzese cuisine!
