Abruzzo is a region located in central Italy, bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the east, the Apennine Mountains to the west, and the parts of Lazio to the south and Marche to the north. With a population of around 1.3 million people, Abruzzo is one of the smallest regions in Italy, both in terms of size and population.
Abruzzo is a land of outstanding natural beauty, with a diverse landscape that includes mountains, forests, national parks, and beaches. The region is home to the Gran Sasso d’Italia, the highest peak in the Apennine Mountains, and the Maiella and Sirente-Velino national parks, known for their wildlife and rugged terrain.
The region’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, focusing on wheat, grapes, olives, and saffron crops. Abruzzo is also known for its traditional food, which includes dishes such as arrosticini (skewered lamb), spaghetti alla chitarra (a type of pasta), and scrippelle (a kind of crepe).
The region has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to prehistoric times. The ancient Samnites inhabited it and later became part of the Roman Empire. Abruzzo was also a centre of medieval art and architecture, with many impressive churches, castles, and palaces still standing today.
Overall, Abruzzo is a region that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural heritage.
Wine of Abruzzo
Abruzzo is known for its excellent wines, including Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and Trebbiano d’Abruzzo. Explore the region’s wineries, wine-making traditions, and wine-tasting
Festivals and Events
Abruzzo has a rich cultural calendar with many festivals, fairs, and events throughout the year.
Arts and Crafts
bruzzo is known for its traditional arts and crafts, including ceramics, embroidery, and woodworking. Highlighting the artisans and workshops of the region, as well as their techniques and products.
Nature and Wildlife
Abruzzo is home to several natural parks and reserves, including the Parco Nazionale della Majella and the Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo. Exploring the region’s flora, fauna, landscapes, and outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling. Things to do in Abruzzo.
History an Heritage
bruzzo has a rich history and cultural heritage, with many important landmarks and monuments, including ancient Roman ruins, mediaeval castles, and Baroque churches. Explore the region’s history, architecture, heritage, and role in shaping Italian culture.
Hotels Of Abruzzo
If you want to explore the delights of Abruzzo they you need somewhere to stay for a few days, discover the hotels of Abruzzo.
Food of Abruzzo
Traditional Abruzzo recipes are characterised by its use of simple, high-quality ingredients often sourced locally. The region’s cuisine is based on traditional recipes passed down through generations and reflect the area’s agricultural heritage.
Meat, particularly lamb and pork, is a staple of Abruzzese cuisine and is often grilled or roasted. Local cheeses, such as pecorino, are also commonly used in dishes. Pasta is another essential ingredient in Abruzzese cuisine, with many types of pasta made by hand using traditional methods.
Vegetables are also an essential part of the cuisine of Abruzzo, with dishes featuring ingredients such as peppers, tomatoes, and fava beans. Soups and stews, such as the famous lentil soup from Santo Stefano di Sessanio, are also common.
Local specialities include arrosticini, skewered lamb or mutton grilled over an open flame, and confetti di Sulmona, sugared almonds, a popular gift item.
Overall, the food of Abruzzo is hearty, flavorful, and reflective of the region’s rich culinary traditions. Visitors to the region can sample various dishes, each reflecting Abruzzese cuisine’s unique flavours and ingredients.
Typical Dishes
- Spaghetti alla chitarra: This dish features a type of spaghetti made with a special tool called a chitarra, which gives the pasta a square shape. It is typically served with a rich tomato sauce, often with the addition of meatballs or sausages.
- Arrosticini: These are skewers of lamb or mutton that are grilled over an open flame and seasoned with salt and olive oil. Arrosticini are a popular street food in Abruzzo and are typically served with a side of bread.
- Scrippelle ‘mbusse: This is a traditional soup made with thin crepes that are filled with pecorino cheese and rolled up. The crepes are then cut into strips and simmered in a rich chicken broth.
- Pallotte cacio e ovo: These are small meatballs made with ground meat, pecorino cheese, and eggs. They are typically fried and then simmered in tomato sauce.
- Virtù: This is a vegetable soup made with a variety of vegetables, including artichokes, fava beans, potatoes, and peas. It is typically served as a first course during special occasions.
- Pecora alla callara: This is a slow-cooked lamb stew that is seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and red pepper flakes. The lamb is cooked in a large pot over an open flame and is typically served with polenta.
- Sagne e fagioli: This is a hearty pasta dish made with wide, ribbon-like noodles and borlotti beans. The noodles are typically cooked in the bean broth and then served with the beans and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Timballo abruzzese: This is a layered pasta dish that features rigatoni pasta, tomato sauce, meatballs, hard-boiled eggs, and mozzarella cheese. The dish is baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Brodetto alla vastese: This is a fish stew that is made with a variety of seafood, including mussels, clams, squid, and shrimp. The stew is flavored with tomatoes, garlic, and white wine and is typically served with a side of bread.
- Parrozzo: This is a traditional cake made with almond flour and covered with a layer of chocolate. The cake has a distinctive dome shape and is often served during special occasions like Easter.