Discover Tempera: Mills, Trails and Hydropower History

Tempera is a district of L’Aquila where traces of historic water use meet trails and landscapes along the Vera. The river’s water has long been used to irrigate orchards and fields. The historic water system also included the Canale Santini, which supplied fields at higher elevations. This means that Tempera’s story stretches from water-powered industries of the past to riverbanks and dry agricultural landscapes.

Nature along the Vera and protected landscapes

The Riserva Naturale Regionale Sorgenti del Vera borders the built-up centre of Tempera. The protected area, covering about 30 hectares, was established in 1983. Several waterfalls at the Vera springs shape a wild and striking landscape. There are three watermills near the springs, one of which is still in operation.

The area also offers opportunities to observe unusual natural features: the Vera River is home to the endemic stonefly relative Taeniopteryx mercuryi, which occurs only in a very limited area. Those interested in river landscapes will also find varied vegetation along the trails. Black poplars, white willows and ivy line the riverbanks along Sentiero 3. Sentiero 1, by contrast, passes through a dry agricultural landscape typical of the mountainous terrain of Abruzzo.

Mills, workshops and hydropower history

From the 15th century onwards, small businesses and industries powered by water developed in Tempera. Three fulling mills were in operation until the beginning of the 20th century; they were later demolished to make way for other buildings. The history of working with water can also be traced through individual sites and facilities: a notarial deed from 1717 documents production at the old paper mill.

A cultural and nature trail curated by FAI includes the mill building with its grain-sorting facility on Via delle Mole. It is considered an example of the modern use of an old craft building. Right next door is the Rameria, a historic copper workshop that is also part of the trail. Mulino Gasbarri is also included in the route and is associated with the traditional craft of milling. The Gasbarri family took over the mill in 1857.

Palazzo Vicentini is one of the notable aristocratic palaces in Tempera. Alongside the traces of the milling trade, it offers another way to explore the town’s history: historical buildings, as well as the use of water and workplaces, are part of Tempera’s cultural landscape.

Trails with different focuses

Sentiero Fiume is recommended for hiking and birdwatching. The same activities are also recommended for Sentiero 3, which lies in the heart of the Riserva Naturale Regionale Sorgenti del Vera. Sentiero 1 (green) is a 1.2-kilometre circular trail in the northern part of Tempera. It is recommended for mountain biking and trekking, as well as snowshoeing when there is snow. Sentiero 2, the “Panoramico” (red), also runs in this area. It is about 2.1 kilometres long and is recommended for mountain biking, roller skating and walks. The two circular trails therefore differ both in length and in the activities recommended for them.

Historic dry-stone walls are still visible along sections of Sentiero 1. The trail starts at an unpaved car park opposite the village cemetery; as parking conditions can change, check the current situation before setting out. Possible closures should also be taken into account on other trails: the Riserva app provides information about trails that may be closed. Check the app or ask a member of staff before setting off.

Festivals and traditional customs

The Festa della Trota is associated with local specialities. Traditional trout dishes, as well as fried pizza, arrosticini and sausage, are served during the event. According to tradition, a religious procession in honour of Saint Blaise passes through the streets of Tempera; a large fennel ring is hung at the foot of the statue. Another San Biagio tradition is a savoury, leavened bread-like ring with fennel seeds, which is prepared and then distributed to the community. These customs add a culinary and religious dimension to the stories of mills, water and landscape.

Discover more destinations: San Pio delle Camere, Fontecchio, L’Aquila, Pescocostanzo, Anversa degli Abruzzi, Campo Di Giove, Tagliacozzo, Coppito.

Back to the main travel overview: L-Aquila.