Collemezzano: Culture and cuisine in the municipality of Rosciano

Rosciano brings together medieval history, art in several churches, and a long winemaking tradition.

History and art in Rosciano

The Normans built the tower of Rosciano. Roscio da Montechiaro, the castle’s first military commander, gave the place its name. The municipal area is home to a medieval castle with a tower known as “dei Paladini.” These historical references reveal different aspects of the town’s history: the origin of its name and its named landmarks.

The churches also offer glimpses of works from different centuries. The Church of the Assumption of Mary, also called Santa Eurosia, houses paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. These include three paintings by Nicola Ranieri da Guardiagrele from 1774. Another work there is the Mannerist painting “Madonna del Rosario col papa Pio V” from 1581. The dates make it easier to compare the works chronologically: the 1581 painting is from an earlier century than the works from 1774.

In the historic center of Rosciano, the Church of San Nicola preserves a series of Renaissance frescoes from the school of Andrea De Litio. These frescoes add another artistic reference to the paintings in the Church of the Assumption of Mary. A legend associated with the martyr Santa Eurosia is also part of Rosciano’s traditions; her name also appears in the name of the church known as Santa Eurosia.

The traditions of Villa Badessa

Villa Badessa, a hamlet of Rosciano, offers a different perspective on the municipality’s cultural history. The village is an Arbëreshë linguistic enclave. Arbëreshë has disappeared from everyday speech but survives in liturgical practice. Villa Badessa is home to a church of the Greek-Byzantine rite, which belongs to the Eparchy of Lungro in Calabria. Language and church tradition are closely connected here: liturgical practice preserves part of the cultural heritage, even though the language is no longer spoken in everyday life.

Wine, olive oil, and regional cuisine

Rosciano is known for producing wine and high-quality extra virgin olive oil, and is a member of the Italian association Città del Vino d'Italia. The Marramiero winery is part of the winemaking tradition. It was founded by the Marramiero family at the beginning of the 20th century and produces, among other wines, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. Marramiero thus brings together a long-established family business and a specifically named wine.

Practical information

At La Torre in Rosciano, the entrance and parking lot are accessible to people with disabilities. If you need this information for planning, it is best to confirm the arrangements before your visit. This gives you a practical point of reference alongside the historical and culinary highlights.

Discover more destinations: Cepagatti, Scafa, Collecorvino, Musellaro, Abbateggio, Cerratina, Farindola, Cugnoli.

For the broader travel overview: Pescara.