Casa Bianca sits in an area rich in art, architecture and history. Many medieval churches, castles, museums and old fortified centres can be found and enjoyed within a few minutes of Casa Bianca, such as in the neighbouring villages of Elice and Castilenti. In fact, everywhere you go, you will come across a town or village with art treasures and monuments of interest. There are far too many to mention and too many to see in one trip.
However, a visit to the cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Atri should not be missed. You will see Andrea Delitio's famous cycle of 15th century frescoes, which still look vibrant today. Pass through the beautiful 13th century cloisters to go under the cathedral and wander around the unique Roman cistern, which is always refreshingly cool even on the hottest of days. The medieval crypt is decorated with priceless frescoes.
Loreto Aprutino still has the feel of a medieval village, with buildings of remarkable architectural standing. However, it is the church of Santa Maria in Piano, near Loreto, that retains the most inportant artistic legacies, with one of the foremost examples of 15th century art in Abruzzo.
In Penne, the cathedral of Santa Maria degli angeli dates back to before the year 1000, whilst the adjacent museum houses a collection of sacred art and precious metals.
15th century frescoes by Andrea Delitio
Roman cistern in Atri
Arts and Crafts
Traditional arts and crafts are still practiced in the area around CasaBianca and can be purchased at very reasonable prices.
For ceramics, the town to visit is Castelli. Whilst there, make sure to look inside the wonderful church of San Donato, to see the delightful ceilings made with painted majolica tiles.
For leather goods, go to Pescara, where the quality of the materials and the mastery of the craftsmen result in high quality goods, which are sought worldwide.
Festivals
The richness in Abruzzo in terms of history and faith means that the year is full of traditional feasts and festivals. They are often in celebration of a local food, which means that there are plenty of delicacies to taste as you enjoy the spectacle.
All the towns and villages have their own 'festa' and the villages surrounding Casa Bianca are no exception.
In Penne, the 3 day festivities re-enact the legendary tale of a king and his 2 princesses and the town is transported straight back to medieval times, with the locals in colourful costumes. The noise of the drums and the sight of the flag-bearers skillfully juggling their flags in the amazing processions is breathtaking. Fire-eaters, dancers, jugglers, stilt-walkers and re-enacted duels all add to the magical ambience. Relax in one of the many inns or restaurants, or wander through the candle-lit streets, and soak up the medieval atmosphere. The highlight of the final night is the 'slippery pole' which provides excitment and amusing entertainment, as volunteers try to climb a very tall greased pole!
Castelli, at the foot of the Gran Sasso
Enjoy hot summer evenings at local festivals
Local Medieval village of Castilenti perches on rolling hills, in front of the Apennines
