Overview
In the enchanting frame of the Sinello Valley, stands the mountain town of Guilmi, a characteristic medieval village that was developed in height. Small and scarcely populated, it hides behind its appearance a rich store of traditions, spirituality, history and art. Let's take a look at what Guilmi has in store for you.
The first historical records of the village date back to the 11th century, when the village, which was still feudal, was donated to the Monastery of Santo Stefano by Trasmondo II, Count of Chieti. Its cobbled streets, which you can climb to discover unimagined views, stairways and murals, emphasize its medieval origins, lulling the visitor into the sensations of the glorious past.
Overlooking the town, stands the imposing Church of the Immacolata, built alongside the historic Palazzo Lizzi. Dating back to the 1500s, it preserves inside a chancel above the main entrance, supported by columns, with a wooden organ attributed to Francesco D'Onofrio. The organ is characterized by a decorated case, divided into three parts by pilasters with plant motifs and with cherubs' heads in the center. The bell tower is made of stone with a quadrangular base, divided into several levels by string-course cornices.
A magical and iconic place in Guilmi is undoubtedly the Church of the Madonna of Paradise, to which the homonymous Fountain is linked. But why this particular name, so spiritual and identifying? Let us explain what is hidden behind the waters of this Fountain, destination of so many pilgrims. It all began in 1991 when Our Lady appeared to Nicolina di Prospero and her husband Nicola Carosella near an oak tree in the woods. She granted them healing from a serious illness and to thank her the couple decided to have a chapel erected in her honor exactly on the spot where a spring of pure water began to flow, as a result of the apparitions. You too should come and visit Guilmi and benefit, therefore, from the beneficial qualities of the water of its important Source.
Guilmi never stops surprising! You should know that since 2007 the town has been chosen as an invitation-only art residency by Federico Bacci and Lucia Giardino. Each year they host important visual artists in the house they purchased right in the town center. This project is called GAP - Guilmi Art Project, a way of bringing art into dialogue with the town community and passing adventurers.
We suggest you visit Guilmi in August, in correspondence with the Festival of Ventricina, a typical local product. A unique delicacy that you cannot resist tasting.