Signora Sheila

We are located in the little known region of Abruzzo, which was once a single region with Molise. Abruzzo is located east of Lazio and Rome, bordered by Molise to the south, the Adriatic Sea to the east, and the Marche region to the north. It is a mountainous region, containing two of the highest peaks in the Italian Appenines (the Little Alps).

Wild Abruzzo

Largely uninhabited, it’s known as Wild Abruzzo and is the greenest region in Italy. One third of its territory is protected: 3 national parks, 1 regional park, and 38 nature reserves! 

These natural areas are extremely important, because they guarantee the survival of 75% of Europe’s living species, including rare species, such as the small wading dotterel, the golden eagle, the Abruzzo chamois, the Apennine wolf, and the Marsican brown bear. Abruzzo is also home to the southernmost glacier in Europe, the Calderone Glacier.

Abruzzo is truly beautiful. The rugged majesty of its mountainous heights is interspersed with deep green valleys, and rolling green hills dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and forests. Just like the ones we see around us and from our backyard (as in the photos below.)

Off the beaten tourist track

Abruzzo has long been off the beaten tourist track. But in recent years, more and more people are discovering the peaceful tranquility of its parks, along with its enticing, clean beaches, picturesque mountain villages and stately castles. And many say that the beauty of Abruzzo even surpasses that of Tuscany!

The area is also an agricultural region with livestock such as pigs, cattle, poultry and goats. And farms that produce fruit and vegetables. It is especially known for its excellent olive oil, cheeses, sausages, lamb. And wine, especially Montepulciano, which is Italy’s most exported wine.

Abruzzo Cuisine

Abruzzesi chefs make good use of these agricultural products, creating tasty offerings such as:

• Arrosticini: grilled lamb kebabs
• Spaghetti alla Chitarra (guitar), cut with a special instrument similar to a guitar
• Fiadone: Easter breakfast pizzas
• Pizzelle: anise-flavored waffles, made with a special waffle iron
• Brodetto: (fish soup, speciality of the province of Chieti)
• Ventricina: a fatty salame with hot pepper and fennel seeds
• Porchetta: a moist boneless slow-roasted pork roast with rosemary and garlic
• Timballo: (a specialty of Teramo) a large baked lasagna-like dish, filled with meat, vegetables, and/or rice, often served at Christmas & Easter. Hungry yet? ;)

Famous Abruzzo people

Abruzzo has also produced some famous people!

• Dean Martin – American singer, actor, and comedian
• Perry Como – American singer, actor, and television personality
• Gabriele Rossetti – political exile and poet
• And the famous poet Christina Rossetti! (Gabriele’s daughter)

Indeed Abruzzo, pronounced Abruttso, is indeed beautiful! We love this region. Known for its fine food and wine, beautiful landscapes, natural parks, and nature reserves. But most of all we, love it because the people of Abruzzo are some of the most hospitable in all of Italy! But don’t just take my word for it. Come and see for yourself! You’ll always find a warm welcome in Abruzzo!

📷 Images are mine