Daphne Experience

Loreto Aprutino is a charming village nestled in the gentle hills of Abruzzo, surrounded by lush olive groves and vineyards, situated between the majestic Apennine mountains and the Adriatic Sea. With a population of around 7,000 residents, the town strikes a perfect balance between a vibrant community and a warm, intimate atmosphere. Although it is close to the beautiful Adriatic beaches and the Abruzzo National Park, Loreto Aprutino is not a mass tourist destination but rather an enchanting locale that draws niche tourism. Here, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in an authentic environment, where traditions are carefully preserved and the cultural heritage is a source of pride.

In the village, you can admire churches of various architectural styles and explore several museums that will entertain you: there is an archaeological museum, a museum dedicated to olive oil, and notably, a museum of rural civilization, which represents the heart of local history. Every Thursday morning, a lively street market enlivens the town's streets, providing an unforgettable experience.

Discovering the captivating squares and historic buildings, sipping coffee in one of the many cafés, and savoring traditional dishes in local restaurants will surely be memorable experiences. Be sure to visit the numerous olive oil mills and wineries that abound in this land, where you will be captivated by the producers' passion, deeply rooted in tradition.

Abruzzo cuisine is renowned and appreciated, with various restaurants offering genuine and generous dishes at affordable prices.

**The Historic Center**
The historic center of Loreto Aprutino is characterized by two focal points: the Chiola Castle, which rises toward the mountains, and the Church of San Pietro, overlooking the sea. Its origins date back to the 9th century, when the Castrum Laureti already existed, likely founded by the Lombards and later expanded by the Normans. Arriving from State Road 16, you can admire the historic center climbing the hill, with its unique beauty.

Entering through the gate on Via degli Aquino, you will find yourself in the highest part of the center, where you can view the Chiola Castle, which dates back to the 9th century and has undergone various renovations over the centuries. Walking along Via del Baio, you arrive at the Abbey of San Pietro Apostolo, which also has origins in the 9th century. The entrance of the church features a charming portico that offers a spectacular view of the surrounding hills and plains.

On Via del Baio, you will find the prestigious Valentini Winery, and continuing along the road, you will encounter the Acerbo Ceramics Museum. Descending the stairs, you reach the remains of the Church of San Giuseppe, destroyed during World War II and never rebuilt. By taking Via Cesare Battisti, you will reach Castelletto Amorotti, a neo-Gothic building that houses the Olive Oil Museum. Within the historic center, you can also find other churches, such as those of San Biagio, Sant’Antonio, and San Francesco, the latter situated next to the old Town Hall (currently being renovated) and the Antiquarium, a museum of great interest.

**The Church of Santa Maria in Piano**
The most significant church is located not far from the historic center, on the opposite hill. Its history has been marked by conflicts, fires, and reconstructions, and it is estimated to have been founded around the 9th century. The structure boasts impressive architecture, with a central nave and a dome above the apse. The bell tower is adorned with colorful glazed terracotta.

**Santa Caterina**
Not far from the village lies the picturesque hilly area of Santa Lucia, from which the district and the Church (Private) take their name. Here, you can enjoy a unique atmosphere, with breathtaking views of the valley and endless olive groves and vineyards, making it an ideal spot for delightful walks.

**Chiola Castle**
The castle, perched atop the hill housing the ancient village, offers an extraordinary panoramic position between the Gran Sasso mountains, the Maiella, and the Adriatic coast. Its architecture is the result of numerous modifications over the centuries. The imposing façade features an arched portal and a large balcony, with neoclassical windows opening above it. By traversing an uphill passageway, you access the ancient courtyard, adorned with sculptures and coats of arms, which has now been transformed into a public space thanks to a modern aluminum and glass cover. Inside, the rooms and halls, fully restored, retain historical architectural elements such as barrel and cross vaults. Chiola Castle currently operates as a hotel and conference center, perfect for events and banquets.

The presence of a fortification at this site is documented as early as 864 A.D.; the earliest historical documents indicate that it was a Lombard stronghold and later, in 1071, a Norman outpost. In the 13th century, it became the residence of noble feudal families, eventually passing to the Chiola family, who lived there from 1843 to 1995. Thanks to the Chiola family, the castle, which was in a state of decay, was restored and transformed into the current palace by architect Francesco Valentini, who created an original neo-Mannerist interpretation.

It is said that on the third floor of the castle, the ghost of Sharan, a young Creole woman who jumped from the tower to escape the treachery of Count Silveri, lingers. Legend has it that every night Sharan calls for someone to free her. Another story claims that the family of St. Thomas Aquinas stopped in Loreto Aprutino on their return from the Crusades, and that young Thomas performed the “miracle of the roses” here.

**The Church of San Pietro Apostolo**
This church is connected to the Abbey and features a 16th-century portico with trifora windows. The door to the crypt dates back to 1534, and the church is rich in sculptures and decorative friezes. The main entrance is marked by a 16th-century portal topped by the Umbriani coat of arms and adorned with elegant bas-reliefs. Inside, the church has three naves, expanded by richly decorated chapels. The presbytery is adorned with a Baroque-style high altar, while the chapel of San Tommaso d'Aquino houses a wooden statue of the Angelic Doctor.

**Patron Saint – San Zopito Martire**
During the feast of San Zopito, a decorated ox is brought to the church and, in a moving ritual, kneels before the Chapel of the Martyr. This tradition, which dates back to 1711, continues to be celebrated by farmers, creating an atmosphere of deep emotion and belonging. The festival is renewed every year, uniting historical memory and contemporary relevance, contributing to the vibrancy of the community.