Altino, Province of Chieti, Abruzzo

Along the Aventino valley, 12 km from Lanciano, on a mountain crest left of the Sangro and right of the Aventino river, Altino rises along a small stream, the Rio Secco, which flows into the Adriatic a few miles away. From the small town an astoundingly rich view can be enjoyed. The fertile territory, so rich in waters, is covered of wineyards and olive trees, and in the plain there is a rich production of fruit.

Info

Altitude: 345 m a.s.l
Distance from Chieti: 46 km
Population: ca. 2,800 inhabitants in 2011
Postal code: 66040
Dialing Area Code: +39 0871
Frazioni: Briccioli, Colli, Fonte, Luzio, Mandrella, Rio Secco, Sant'Angelo, Scosse, Selva
How to reach it: A14 exit Val di Sangro, then road s.s.n. 84 from Lanciano.

History

Ancient medieval borough, it was mentioned already in documents of the 12th century, and was under a number of different feudal lords, such as the de Anichino, Diego de Moccicao, Alvaro de Grado, Giovanni Vincenzo Crispano, the Tovo, Furia and Paolucci families. In 1861 and 1862 was repeatedly attacked by brigands, and many families moved to Casoli and Chieti.

What to see

The church of Madonna delle Grazie, with a fine painting on wood dated 1355 showing Our Lady.
Nearby, in a place called Brecciole, a spring of sulphurous waters which the people say has healing powers.

Events and Festivities

15-16 May: Feast of Madonna delle Grazie
July: Historical re-enactement of threshing, with parade of rural tools of the past
26-27 September: Feast of SS. Cosma e Damiano.

Where to stay

Hotels: Aurora
Agritourism: La Fonte | La Mandrelle

Genealogy and Links

Municipio di Altino, 1 V. Della Madonna, Altino 0872-985121
Surnames presently recorded in Altino
Francesco S. Sirolli, Altino - Storia Cronaca Leggenda, Editrice Carabba.

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Provinces of Abruzzo

Chieti | L'Aquila | Pescara | Teramo

Surnames in the Provinces of Abruzzo

Chieti | L'Aquila | Pescara | Teramo

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