Overview
Schiavi d'Abruzzo stands on the slopes of Mount Pizzuto from which, with an exciting panoramic walk, you can enjoy a 360° panorama: from the Simbruini Mountains to the Meta Mountains up to the Matese Mountains, the Maiella, the Adriatic Sea and the Tremiti Islands.
The village is home to an important archaeological area which houses the Italic Temples, dating back to a period between the end of the 3rd and the beginning of the 1st century BC. There are two main buildings: the oldest one dates back to the period preceding the Roman conquest of Sannio and keeps a podium and some portions of the building above.
Of the second building, smaller than the other, a mosaic floor and an inscription in the Oscan language remain. A few years ago, a necropolis dating back to the 9th century BC came to light in the same area.
Archaeological finds from pre-Roman, Roman and medieval times are evidence that the area has been the site of important settlements since ancient times, with documented continuity.
The village also has among its attractions the Archaeological Museum, dedicated to one of the most important and best-preserved sacred cult areas used by the Samnite Pentri, the Italic population that built temples starting from the 2nd century BC.
The museum follows an obligatory circular route which develops into two main sections: the Sacred Area, with an analysis of the architectural solutions adopted in the two temples and the rituals associated with them, and the area of burials and funerary rites, with the rich early imperial grave goods from the inhumation and incineration tombs found in the nearby necropolis.
An interesting period for a visit to Schiavi d'Abruzzo is certainly in March, during the Carnival celebrations, in which the village celebrates the ancient Mazzaroni Festival. On this occasion, local youngsters wear a characteristic headdress called 'the Cimiero' covered with flowers and coloured paper ribbons and then, together with Pulcinella, visit all the houses in the village receiving sweets, wine and sausages in exchange for traditional songs and dances.
What to eat in this village so rich in history and traditions? We suggest you try the chicken al mattone, the sagne a pezzat with ventricina sauce, the truffle ravioli and the crunchy puff pastry tarallucci stuffed with almonds and jam.