Caramanico Terme, the village famous for its thermal waters

Immersed in the heart of the Maiella National Park, Caramanico Terme is recognized among Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages, a guardian of history, traditions, and nature. Its name, almost certainly of Lombard origin, derives from arimannia, a military settlement from which the community took shape. The first historical traces date back to 601, with the Lombard duke Teodolapio, traditionally considered the founder. Over the centuries, the village was enriched with places of worship such as Santa Maria Maggiore (1059) and the Church of Saint Thomas Becket (1202), while the famous thermal waters were already known in the Middle Ages. Between economic prosperity, such as silk production in the 15th century, and rebirths after calamities, Caramanico has always regenerated itself, eventually becoming a renowned spa and natural destination.

Discover the treasures of the village

Amid the woods of the Maiella, Caramanico Terme reveals itself as a charming village founded in the Lombard era, perched on a promontory between the Orfento and Orta rivers. Its historic center, shaped like a “spindle acropolis,” still preserves its medieval layout, with ridge streets and narrow rue that tell centuries of history. The spiritual and architectural heart is the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, with its magnificent Gothic portal from 1452 and precious works of art such as the 15th-century wooden Crucifix. Other gems include the Church of Saint Thomas Aquinas, now an auditorium, and the Church of Saint Nicholas of Bari, which combines neoclassical sobriety with a rich Baroque portal. Strolling through alleys and squares, one encounters 18th-century noble palaces, built after the 1706 earthquake, such as Palazzo D’Aquino and Palazzo Salerni, testimony to the village’s rebirth. In the San Maurizio district, the most authentic, votive shrines and folk sculptures evoke the community’s devotion. The surrounding landscape is equally captivating: from the pine forest of the ancient castle, the view embraces the valleys and peaks of the Maiella. A few kilometers away, the Abbey of Saint Thomas Becket (1202) preserves frescoes, medieval reliefs, and legends tied to the “miraculous water,” confirming Caramanico as a timeless place of art, faith, and nature.

Events in Caramanico

Caramanico Terme comes alive with events that celebrate music, traditions, and flavors. Caramanichestate (July–August) offers the international Valle dell’Orfento Festival, the Musicarte Festival, and the traveling program Borghi in Musica. In July, the International Music Competition Paolo Barrasso takes place in the Clarisse complex, featuring orchestras, groups, and soloists from Italy and abroad. On August 14–15, the festival I Palmentieri celebrates the harvest: girls in traditional costume offer wicker baskets with sweets to the Madonna of the Assumption. Finally, on December 30, Boccali DiVini invites visitors to discover wines and local specialties in the ancient village’s cellars, blending taste and tradition.

photo credits  Adwo