EASTER IN ABRUZZO - TRADITIONAL PROCESSIONS, LOCAL CULTURE & COLORFUL FOLKLORE

Arrival at your accommodation and after check in meet with your Tour Assistant and receive your Passucci welcome Pack & Gift containing all the necessary informations, maps and vouchers. Rest of the day and evening at your own leisure.

After breakfast, our recommendation is to visit the medieval town of Guardiagrele, listed in the National guide as one of the most beautiful historic hamlets in Italy. It is known also as "The Terrace of Abruzzo" for its stunning far-reaching views towards the coast as well as being renowned for its art and craftmanship. Stroll through its historic centre, which features traditional Majella Stone houses and the very interesting architecture of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore with its beautiful crypt. Not to be missed is the Art Craft and Costume Museum exhibiting local life in Guardiagrele throughout the last couple of centuries. A visit to Guardiagrele is not complete until you taste its unique delicious pastry, "Le Sisse de le monache", translated literally as nun's tits! Just a hundred yards from the Cathedral you will find patisserie Lullo which has made the pastries since 1860, still following the same secret recipe. Many small artisans workshops can be found along the narrow cobbled streets, particularly famous for gold, copper work and ceramic. In this town you will find a great choice of restaurants serving typical local cuisine from family run trattorias to Michelin star restaurants. If you would like to experience simple traditional Abruzzo cuisine surrounded by uncontaminated nature, we suggest you visit "Le Mignole" farmhouse near the Comune of Orsogna. Our itinerary will now take you to the first Easter Procession experiences in the beautiful historic city of Lanciano. This city attracts millions of visitors/pilgrims from all over the world who visit the location where the first ever recorded Eucharistic Miracle took place in the San Frances Church. Opposite you will be able to visit the Basilica della Madonna del Ponte, and beneath the incredible Stunning Diocletian Bridge. Stroll along the Medieval quarter and the Torre Montanara and finally stop in the historic Caffè "I Portici" and enjoy a typical Bocconotto di lanciano pastry. At around 7.30pm the ancient Processione degli Incappucciati will begin. One of the most atmospheric and evocative Holy Thursday processions in the whole of Abruzzo where members of the confraternity walk with hooded robes and carry a symbolic cross along the narrow cobbled street of Lanciano. 

This particular area of Abruzzo is also recognised as a champion of biodiversity, outstanding beauty as well as a protected nature reserve. Certainly one of the best ways of discovering this aspect is by either hiring a bike or just taking a leisurely walk along the Costa dei Trabocchi coastal path. It is a place known for its slow pace, authentic atmosphere, and strong links between sea, tradition and food, particularly beautiful during spring time when the weather is mild and crowds are low. At around 4.45pm we recommend you head towards Chieti to discover the "Processione del Cristo Morto" one of the oldest and most solemn Religious Processions in Italy, dating back to the 17th Century. The procession reflects Abruzzo's strong Religious traditions and is know for its intensity, dignity and emotional impact, making it one of the most important Easter events in the Region. The parades will start at 6.45pm from the Cathedral of San Giustino and follow a route along the main streets of Chietis historic centre. Arrive with plenty of time to find a good position to view the parade. 

After a leisurely breakfast we have highlighted for you on the map the city of Vasto, one of the most beautiful gems in Abruzzo's crown. Perched on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Vasto is elegant, rich in history, architecture and beautyful renaissance art. From its Loggia Amblingh breathtaking panoramas can be admired with views stretching to the Gargano Peninsula. the Tremiti Islands and towards the islands of the Croatian Coast. Enjoy a stroll along the cobbled narrow streets, aristocratic palaces, the bars, shops and boutiques. You can enjoy lunch in one of the many restaurants along the panoramic walk serving local cuisine, in particular freshly locally caught fish. Alongside amazing natural landscape, the province of Chieti is also the largest wine producing area of Abruzzo, therefore we suggest you look at our list of wineries to visit and taste some of the best wines produced in the Region. Take the rest of the day at your leisure, relax in the garden with a book, or admire the views whilst enjoying an aperitivo.

Easter Sunday! Enjoy your breakfast and today for you we have thought of guiding you back to Lanciano for the "Incontro dei Santi" Procession. It's a theatrical, emotional and deeply symbolic moment representing the joy of Easter, and the discovery of Resurrection, blending at the same time devotion, community and folk tradition. The event starts around 12.00pm and lasts about 1h. It is not particularly overcrowded which helps give it that intimate community atmosphere. After the event we have planned for you a traditional Easter Lunch at a bespoke restaurant along the Trabocchi Coast. 

Easter Monday! Traditionally considered a Pic-Nic day with family and friends. Many people will fill their cars with blankets, bbq's, games, drinks and so on and drive for the "Scampagnata di Pasquetta" "Easter Monday" family day out in the countryside. In this area there is a high concentration of medieval towns, castles, fortresses to visit and to enjoy whether on your own, with group of friends or with family. These are our recommendations: leave in good time and drive (about 1h) to the Rifugio Pomilio (1,986m.a.s.l.). Park your car and take a gentle steady but not too difficult walk (4km) to reach the iconic Blockhous at (2,148m.a.s.l.). Armed with your binoculars prepare yourself to experience breathtaking 360° far reaching views. We can pre-book for you a table at the restaurant where you can enjoy traditional arrosticini (typical sheep meat skewers), pallotte cacio e ove (cheesy pufballs in tomato sauce), Chitarrina al sugo (traditional spaghetti with typical sauce), mix grilled meat and more..... At your own leisure return to your accommodation. More days out options are available, so please ask for more information.

 Breakfast. Check out and departure to your home destination