Pizzoferrato between alpine slopes, nature trails and local history

Pizzoferrato is a mountain village in the Majella National Park, surrounded by extensive beech and pine forests. The historic section, with the original settlement, lies on a rocky ridge that drops steeply on three sides. The elevated settlement, the rock formations and the forests together shape the character of the town.

Winter in the town and the Valle Del Sole area

The town has a slope for alpine skiing. In winter, visitors can also use a cross-country ski trail, the atmospheric La Mandra circular trail and ski lifts in the Valle Del Sole area. The slope is therefore located in the town, while the cross-country ski trail, circular trail and ski lifts are grouped together in the Valle Del Sole area. Alpine skiing and cross-country skiing are thus assigned to different areas.

In summer, Valle Del Sole in San Domenico is a meeting point for hiking and horseback riding. Free climbing is also possible in the same area. In summer, hiking, horseback riding and climbing come together there. For planning purposes, the seasons distinguish the winter activities in the Valle Del Sole area from the summer activities in San Domenico.

Nature trails and elevation

A nature trail through the beech forest leads to Scrimacavallo at an elevation of 1,185 metres. Above Pizzoferrato there is also a modern tourist centre from which numerous nature trails begin.

Rock cliff, church and castle

The ancient Church of Santa Maria del Girone stands on the large rocky cliff above the built-up centre of Pizzoferrato. The remains of the ancient castle of Pizzoferrato are located above this church. The two sites are spatially connected and mark two related points on the same rocky formation.

The Parish Church of San Rocco is also part of the town's history. It was built in the second half of the 19th century after the former parish church was demolished. The Grotta di San Domenico lies among the rocks of the mountain of the same name and is considered an ancient refuge of the saint. The Chiesa di San Domenico in Silvis is still in use and is a pilgrimage destination. San Rocco is associated with the second half of the 19th century; the grotto lies among the rocks, and San Domenico in Silvis is still in use.

Nature observation and local character

In Località La Chiarenza, about 2 kilometres from Pizzoferrato, the Centro Nazionale Avifauna La Casa degli Angeli takes in wild birds in need of help, cares for them and rehabilitates them. The second edition of the Sagra della Patata Rossa in Pizzoferrato featured food stalls, musical entertainment and traditional games. Thus, alongside the nature trails and historic sites, the area around Pizzoferrato also offers wild-bird care and a local festival with food, music and games.

Other places: Borrello, Gamberale, Casacanditella, San Martino Sulla Marrucina, Guardiagrele, Pretoro, Roccamontepiano and Lama Dei Peligni.

Chieti