Discover Corvara

Corvara lies on a rocky outcrop at the foot of Monte Aquileio, in the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park and in the province of Pescara. When choosing a destination, two themes stand out: the development of the old settlement center and the landscape, with views over the Pescara Valley and the Maiella. If you are looking for a hotel in Corvara, you can consider whether your trip will focus more on the historic traces in the village or also include a hike. Both perspectives reveal different aspects of Corvara’s history and surroundings.

Old Settlement Center and New Settlement

The oldest part of the settlement can only be reached on foot via a long staircase. The old settlement center was abandoned after the 1933 earthquake; the new settlement was built farther down. So if you plan to visit the oldest part, you should factor the staircase into your plans. Here, a specific access requirement and a significant change in the village’s history go hand in hand: the upheaval of 1933 changed where the new settlement was built.

Traces from Different Eras

Corvara was developed into a castle in 985; the place was known as “La Corvara.” The antipope Nicholas V was born in Corvara in 1258. These two dates point to different chapters in the village’s history—the development into a castle and a historical figure associated with Corvara. In the old medieval village, house walls that served as fortifications have been preserved. The stone houses are called Pagliare and were also used as stables for pack animals.

The churches and historical remains also offer different perspectives. Of Sant’Andrea Apostolo in the old settlement center, the bell tower, the spire, and part of the apse remain. Santa Maria di Costantinopoli is a medieval church; its stone portal is attributed to a stonemason of the Casaurian tradition. At the foot of Corvara stands the 16th-century rock church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. There are also the ruins of a presumably Roman temple. Medieval architectural elements, the 16th-century church, and the uncertain dating of the temple remains each offer a different perspective on Corvara’s past.

Rocky Outcrop, Views, and Hiking

For a scenic outing, a clearly defined route leads from Corvara to Colle Rotondo. The viewpoint is at an altitude of 946 meters; from there, the view extends over the Pescara Valley and the Maiella. Allow about two hours for the round-trip hike. This approximate duration refers to the entire outward and return journey and provides a general guide for planning your day. The views over the valley and the Maiella complement the village’s historical themes with a distinct focus on the landscape.

Patron Saint’s Festival in July

Madonna del Sacro Cuore is Corvara’s patron saint’s festival; the dates given are July 1 and 2. If you plan your stay around it, confirm the dates locally. This way, you can take the festival into account when planning your trip without assuming that it is currently taking place on the stated dates.

Discover more destinations: Castellana, Pescara, Rosciano, Musellaro, Tocco Da Casauria, Cerratina, Civitaquana, Turrivalignani.

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