Campli: the village nestled among the Teramo valleys

Campli, located in the heart of Abruzzo, is a village rich in history and spirituality, lying on a hill between the valleys of Teramo.

The toponym Campulum first appeared in a 1078 document related to the possessions of Roberto, Count of Abruzzo. The town of Campli, situated within the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, lies on a plateau between the valleys of the Siccagno and Fiumicino streams and is characterized by an ancient history, testified by the Italic necropolis of Campovalano. The historic center preserves the appearance of a medieval mercantile village, with 14th-century porticoed buildings and 16th-century palaces such as the House of the Pharmacist and the House of the Doctor.

The period of greatest development for Campli began in the 15th century, marked by significant events such as the presence of Saint John of Capestrano and the foundation of the convent dedicated to Saint Bernardino.

What to see in Campli

Campli revolves around Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, the heart of town life, where two symbolic monuments stand: the Palazzo del Parlamento, also known as Palazzo Farnese, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria in Platea. Built at the end of the 13th century, Palazzo Farnese is the oldest civic building in Abruzzo. In the 16th century it was expanded with a third floor, hosting the region’s first permanent theater. Its Gothic façade is decorated with a portico of seven round arches.

The Cathedral, built in 1395 on the site of an earlier church, houses a cycle of Giotto-style frescoes and important works such as the Eucharistic altar by Sebastiano da Como and paintings by Giovan Battista Ragazzini. The 18th-century wooden ceiling is the work of Donato Teodoro.

In 1772, Campli obtained the privilege of erecting the Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs, unique in Central Italy, with 28 steps to be climbed on one’s knees to obtain Plenary Indulgence, accompanied by frescoes by Vincenzo Baldati depicting the Passion of Christ.

Among the medieval hamlets, not to be missed are the Porta Angioina of Castelnuovo, a rare example of 13th-century military architecture, and the Melatino Tower in Nocella.

Events, culture and traditions

The Sagra della Porchetta Italica of Campli is the oldest gastronomic festival in Abruzzo and takes place in the week after mid-August. Since 1964, the title of best porchetta of the year has been awarded, thanks to artisanal preparation, special seasoning, and slow wood-fired cooking. The Sunday market, active since 1293, enlivens the streets of the historic center with all kinds of products, including the famous porchetta.

Among the most important events is the Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary in September, beginning with pilgrimages and solemn vigils, followed by a votive procession through the historic center with confraternities in traditional dress. The Novena of the Immaculate Conception, celebrated for over 250 years between late November and December 8, commemorates the miraculous healing from an epidemic through the Blessed Virgin. In July, the Truffle Festival of Campovalano celebrates typical dishes with truffles from the Laga mountains, while the Timballo Festival of Floriano highlights the traditional layered dish of vegetables, meats, and cheeses. In June, the Traversa in Festa showcases local products, while in July the historic center comes alive with the Campli Music Festival, featuring jazz, rock, and singer-songwriter concerts.

What to see around Campli

The village enjoys a privileged position between sea and mountains: just a short distance away are the beaches of the Adriatic and the natural reserves of the Gran Sasso and the Maiella, perfect destinations for excursions and outdoor tourism.

(cover photo credits: yournameonstones)