Casoli: the village that withstood wars

Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Aventino valley and the first slopes of the Majella, Casoli is a village steeped in history and silence, where every stone seems to guard a tale of resilience, culture, and beauty.

Casoli traces its roots back to ancient Cluviae, capital of the Carecini Infernates and later a Roman municipium, abandoned in the 4th century AD due to barbarian invasions. The new settlement, built on the hill and called Casulae, became a Lombard castrum and developed its own identity even before the year 1000.

From the 11th century it was part of the County of Manoppello and passed under various feudal lords, including the Orsini and the D’Aquino, who expanded the castle and the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. Between the 15th and 17th centuries, the village grew and was equipped with walls, towers, and gates.

After the Unification of Italy, Casoli faced economic crises and migrations. During World War II it hosted an internment camp for Jews and anti-fascists, and in 1943 the Maiella Brigade was founded in the Ducal Castle. In the postwar years, the town developed further, also thanks to the construction of Lake Sant’Angelo for hydroelectric purposes.

What to see in Casoli

The Church of Santa Reparata, patron saint of Casoli, preserves its original layout despite the damage suffered during the Allied bombing of November 26, 1943. The façade was rebuilt in 1952 in Abruzzese style. The ancient stone-carved portal is now placed on a side entrance. The altars of the Apostles Philip and James have been restored and relocated. The triumphal arch of 1539 frames the altar of Santa Reparata, with an 18th-century statue. Lost, however, was the precious 17th-century coffered ceiling. The church houses a triptych from 1506 by Antonio di Francesco da Fossombrone.

The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, next to the Ducal Castle, was originally a palatine chapel. Dedicated in 1455 by the Orsini, it was expanded in the 18th century by the D’Aquino and restored in 1868 in neoclassical style. It preserves works of art including a Madonna of the Rosary from 1572 and paintings by Bellonio and De Benedictis.

The Ducal Castle, with its pentagonal tower, was built between the 11th and 12th centuries. Used by both Germans and Allies during World War II, today it is a national monument. It houses the Room of Silence, dedicated to the Abruzzese Cenacle, and the D’Annunzio Room, once frequented by the poet.

Culture, events and traditions

Casoli celebrates several religious and cultural traditions throughout the year. In January, the feast of Saint Anthony Abbot features popular theatrical performances about his life. On Corpus Christi, a procession takes place along streets decorated with flower carpets prepared by the inhabitants. In August, cultural events are organized, including the literary festival Ariel a Castello, dedicated to Gabriele D’Annunzio.

The patronal feasts in honor of Santa Reparata and San Gilberto, from October 7 to 9, include the traditional Giornata dei Donativi with costumed parades and the sale of offerings to finance the celebrations, preceded by the fair of Santa Reparata. Finally, on December 8, the feast of the Immaculate Conception is preceded by the evocative Fires of the Conception, a symbol of unity and festivity for the community.

What to see around Casoli

Casoli is a gateway to the Majella National Park, a paradise of forests, rock-hewn hermitages, and ancient trails. Just a few kilometers away are the Gorges of Fara San Martino, a spectacular natural entrance to the heart of the massif, and Lake Sant’Angelo.

For those seeking the authentic soul of Abruzzo, nearby villages such as Palena, Guardiagrele, and Pennapiedimonte offer traditions, art, and genuine cuisine.

A village not to be missed!

So what are you waiting for—pack your bags and set off on your journey!