Meta in the Valle Roveto: History, Route and Climbing Area

Meta lies at 1,051 metres and combines the history of an old village shaped by the earthquake with a route, local culture and a technically oriented climbing area. If you are looking for accommodation in Meta, you can plan your stay around whether you want to focus on historical sites, a longer route, regional specialities or sporting activities.

Key facts on the subject

• Meta is the only village in the Valle Roveto located above 1,000 metres; the stated elevation is 1,051 metres.
• Only ruins remain of the former Meta, which was located on a hill before the 1915 earthquake.
• The Zompo lo Schioppo–Meta route via the Hermitage of Madonna del Cauto is 12.5 kilometres long and takes 5.5 hours.
• The Civitella Roveto–Meta climbing area is characterised by a very technical climbing style requiring finger strength and sure footing.
• The Church of the Santissima Trinità was relocated between 1946 and 1951 and rebuilt in the new town centre.
• Meta is home to Big Bench number 354 of the Big Bench Community Project; Bar La Piazza is the stamp and passport point.
• For Meta, the municipal calendar lists the Festa della S.S. Trinità in June and the Festa dell'Assunta on 15 August.

Historic Meta and the new town centre

The history of the village can be experienced in several places in Meta. Before the 1915 earthquake, the village was located on a hill. Today, only ruins remain there. This historic location stands alongside the later reconstruction: following the earthquake, the Church of the Santissima Trinità was relocated between 1946 and 1951 and rebuilt in the new town centre.

The church façade also provides clear architectural points of reference. It features a simple gable shape, a pyramid-shaped staircase and a large entrance portal. A tour focusing on history should also include the Castello di Meta and the connection with Montecassino as part of the village’s history: in 1070, the counts of the Marsi donated the Castello di Meta to the monks of Montecassino.

The church festivals provide further cultural highlights. The Festa della S.S. Trinità is listed in June, and the Festa dell'Assunta on 15 August.

Route and sporting options

Anyone planning a longer outing will find a clearly described option in the Zompo lo Schioppo–Meta route via the Hermitage of Madonna del Cauto. The route is 12.5 kilometres long and is stated to take 5.5 hours. You should take these two figures into account when planning your day. They provide a specific indication of the time frame, but alone say nothing about personal fitness, weather conditions or the nature of individual sections.

Another activity is offered by the Civitella Roveto–Meta climbing area. The climbing area is characterised by a very technical climbing style requiring finger strength and sure footing. Access begins at Meta’s sports field. From there, a path of approximately 500 metres leads to a fork. When preparing, it is therefore important to consider the route and the sporting requirements separately: the distance to the fork is an orientation figure for access and is not an assessment of the climbing routes.

Another stop is Big Bench number 354 of the Big Bench Community Project. In Meta, it is located at Bar La Piazza, which is also named as the stamp and passport point for this Big Bench. This allows a stay to be complemented by a clearly identified point of interest.

Local character and finding accommodation

Meta is also characterised by regional products. Cheese and prosciutto with a distinctive aroma and flavour are produced here. Those who value local history, regional products and a combination of culture and activity when choosing accommodation in Meta can give these themes different priorities when planning their trip.

More destinations

To compare other destinations, you can also view Rocca Di Mezzo, Cappadocia, Celano, Barrea, Pacentro, Pescasseroli, Ateleta and Pettorano Sul Gizio.

FAQ

How high is Meta?

Meta lies at 1,051 metres. It is the only village in the Valle Roveto located above 1,000 metres.

What remains of the old Meta?

Before the 1915 earthquake, Meta was located on a hill. Today, only ruins remain there.

How long is the route via the Hermitage of Madonna del Cauto?

The Zompo lo Schioppo–Meta route via the Hermitage of Madonna del Cauto is 12.5 kilometres long and takes 5.5 hours.

What characterises the Civitella Roveto–Meta climbing area?

It is characterised by a very technical climbing style. Finger strength and sure footing are required.

Where does access to the climbing area begin?

Access begins at Meta’s sports field. From there, a path of approximately 500 metres leads to a fork.

Which Big Bench is there in Meta?

Meta is home to Big Bench number 354 of the Big Bench Community Project. Bar La Piazza is listed as the stamp and passport point for it.

Which festivals are listed for Meta?

The municipal calendar lists the Festa della S.S. Trinità in June and the Festa dell'Assunta on 15 August.

Which regional products are produced in Meta?

Cheese and prosciutto with a distinctive aroma and flavour are produced in Meta.

For the higher-level travel overview: L-Aquila.