Navelli

On the southern slope of a hill in Abruzzo region, at an altitude of 760 meters, lies the village named Navelli. This is a particular position because it is dominant on Navelli upland.

First evidences of the village date back to a period prior to the Middle Ages. Then it was under the rule of Spoleto and during this era it developed becoming one of the most important economies of the Aquila district.

That was because Navelli laid on the Abuzzi’s road which connected Firenze with Napoli and also because saffron was cultivated on the Navelli upland. The village was then beaten by two earthquakes and by a plague epidemic which killed 800 out of its 1000 inhabitants.

Over the decades the local economy changed drastically. The saffron trade lost its importance and pastoralism also declined. These conditions pushed the inhabitants to abandon the oldest part of Navelli, and find new opportunities also abroad.

Nowadays the village on the hill is almost completely lonely. It is like a ghost hamlet, but this is precisely the beauty of Navelli. You can ramble among alleys encountering only cats and discovering ancient buildings and charming corners from which enjoying beautiful views of the Navelli upland.

Last but not least you can rest at a tiny bar, which is more or less the unique visible evidence of human life in the ancient part of Navelli. The name of this bar is “Il grottino nel borgo” that in English means the little cave in the hamlet. Here you can taste local wonderful food like cured meat, cheeses and unforgettable Rosticini all accompanied by an excellent red wine.

This is a unique experience. Don’t miss it !

Note: the main picture here above shows the Navelli upland.

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