Italy Panorama

Province L’Aquila, Abruzzo
Population 760, Altitude 450m

When you enter the Valle Peligna it is hard not to notice Roccacasale as it seams to spill down the slopes of Monte Morrone and is dominated by the ruins of a medieval castle. This town, that is largely abandoned, hugs the bedrock as it provides splendid views of the valley and the charming city of Sulmona below.

Roccasale

Roccacasale was a typical fortified medieval village with narrow streets and gates in the shadow of the castle that overlooks the town was built in the early 11th Century by the rulers of Spoleto who controlled most of this area of Italy. The streets still retain their medieval characteristics as they sometimes steeply wind up to the base of the castle remains. The 16th-century church of St. Michele Arcangelo is where you will find some preserved stone statues of the Saint and the relics of an arm of friar Mariano of Roccacasale, who was beatified by Pope Giovanni Paolo II in 1999.

Large portions of the population emigrated from Italy after World War II and there are many properties available to purchase, especially near the castle ruins, though these are in need of major renovations. Due to the good access and property availability there has been a recent influx of foreign buyers in this the area with businesses sprouting to service this diverse mix.

Roccacasale is about 10 minutes from Sulmona and there is good train service from Sulmona to other parts of Italy. By car you have easy access to Pescara and Rome via the Autostrada.

Market day: Tuesday
Feast Days: 6th August: St. Antonio and St.Rocco’s day, June: Strigolo festival

Resource: roccacasale.it