Fara San Martino: Gorges, History and Pasta Tradition

The Gorges and the Eastern Slope of the Maiella

The Gole di San Martino begin just outside Fara San Martino as a narrow gorge between high rock walls on the eastern slope of the Maiella. The gorge route is 14 kilometres long and has an elevation difference of 2,300 metres. The narrow valley defines the appearance of the gorge; its length and elevation difference give an idea of the route’s extent and terrain. Visitors can therefore focus on two aspects of the same natural area: the narrow passage between the rocks and the expansive route.

Visitors to the Gole are advised to go with authorised mountain guides. In bad weather, avoid the gorge because of the risk of falling rocks. Check the conditions before setting out.

The Springs and Landscape of the Verde River

There is a fully equipped picnic area at the springs of the Verde River. The Verde River landscape is accessible to visitors via nature and environmental education trails. The visitor experience therefore differs between the two areas: in the Gole, the gorge and rock walls dominate the scenery, while at the Verde, the springs, picnic area, and nature and environmental education trails are the main features. If you plan to use the picnic area, check the current facilities, as they may change.

San Martino in Valle: Architecture and History

San Martino in Valle adds a distinctive architectural focus to the town’s history. The surviving remains include an entrance gate, a courtyard, a portico originally with three arches, and a bell tower with a gabled roof. “Three-arched” refers to the portico’s three arches; the gabled roof describes the shape of the bell tower. San Martino in Valle was first mentioned in 829, when it was recorded as property of the Abbey of Santo Stefano in Lucania. The site thus brings together visible architectural features and an early historical reference point.

From Fara San Martino, you can reach San Martino in Valle by following park trail H1 after the car park at the Gole di San Martino. Trail conditions may vary; check them before setting out.

Church, La Porta and Pasta Tradition

The parish church of San Remigio houses the most significant collection of artistic and archaeological treasures in Fara San Martino. La Porta, the main entrance to the old village, dates from 1708 and is neoclassical in style. The two sites offer different points of interest: at San Remigio, the focus is on a collection; at La Porta, it is on a single building with a stated date and style.

Pasta production is also part of the town’s history. It began around the middle of the 19th century as a craft activity; in just over 100 years, it developed into an industrial activity. The history of an industry thus complements the themes of landscape and architecture, focusing here on its craft beginnings and transformation into an industrial activity.

Discover more destinations: Altino, Montazzoli, San Vito Chietino, Gessopalena, San Giovanni Teatino, Gamberale, Vasto, Castiglione Messer Marino.

For the wider travel overview: Chieti.