Medieval Magic of Abruzzo

Media Release
September 2007

Medieval Magic of Abruzzo

Taking a small guided tour of the Abruzzo region of central Italy can transport you back in time to give you a glimpse of life in the middle ages.

Civilisations that moved into Abruzzo after the fall of the Roman Empire in the period between the fifth and sixteenth centuries created so much history and left so many fascinating reminders of the times, its well worth a special tour.

Absolutely Abruzzo Tours is adding an 8 day/7 night tour to its 2008 calendar called ‘Medieval Magic of Abruzzo’ which transports you back to a fascinating time in history.

Tour director Luciana Masci says the new package introduces you to the region through its ancient traditions and culture in a relaxed and interesting way and travelling only with a small number of guests.

“Through the ages, many civilisations and tribes made their way over the Apennines to what’s now called Abruzzo. Our tour takes in historical places and relives ancient traditions,” said Luciana.

Travelling inland from Rome across the Apennines to the still ‘untouristed’ parts of Abruzzo you experience a pristine wilderness where the hillsides are peppered with the ruins of old castles and remote medieval monasteries. The tour takes you to isolated ancient Norman castles and beautiful nature reserves including the Gran Sasso National Park with some of Italy’s highest alpine pastures.

“We take you along the roads less travelled to places that aren’t on the more often used routes uncovering hidden monasteries,” said Luciana.

“Medieval Magic of Abruzzo opens you to the wonders of a medieval pageantry festival, the ancient traditions of jousting, flag throwing as well as medieval dancers and musicians.

2008 Dates Leave Rome July 6, July 27, Aug 3.

The Itinerary includes:

DAY 1: The Medieval Fair and Joust in the fascinating town of Sulmona (July 27/Aug 3 departures).

DAY 2: Explore Sulmona’s past home to monks, poets and Romans. Visit the ancient ruins of a nobleman’s house. See the beautifully restored opera house and the medieval Aqueduct.

DAY 3: Visit a family run pasta factory and a cheese factory. Pass through breath taking scenery. Lunch in a tiny village perched on a rocky outcrop (favourite retreat of artists and monks). Pass through beautiful villages. La Dolce Vita!

DAY 4: Local market with mouth watering produce. The enchanting village of Santo Stefano complete with a solitary Medici built tower is truly one of the jewels of Abruzzo, a place where time has stood still. Stay in accommodation from the dark ages, tastefully renovated to include all modern conveniences.

DAY 5: Meet in the morning at the medieval gate for a tour of town. Stand before the ancient gaming house and courthouse or Casa del Capitano. Visit a thousand year old castle Rocca Calascio featured in countless films. Lunch at the foot of this mighty ruin after surveying the stunning panorama of the Apennines. Visit L'Aquila capitol of the region of Abruzzo sampling local wines.

DAY 6: Visit the majestic Campo Imperatore, an alpine plain 20 km long and 12 km wide bounded by rugged mountains in the shadow of the Gran Sasso where once Benito Mussolini was held prisoner. Return for an al fresco picnic lunch with arrosticini, skewers barbequed in the local style. Squisito! Dine in a Medieval Convent.

DAY 7: Marvel at ancient frescos and taste local wines before sharing a cooking class where we prepare, with the guidance of wonderful Abruzzese women, local specialities ourselves which we will enjoy to the accompaniment of Italian songs sung by Michael Howard international Tenor. Dance the night away with our Abruzzese hosts to the strains of traditional songs.

DAY 8: Bid farewell to Abruzzo and return to Rome to meet your further travel connections. Arrivederci!

COST: 8 days/ 7 nights $NZ5322 pp twin share (+ $NZ532 single supplement)

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