Tempera – Sources, Mills and Local History

Tempera, a district of L'Aquila, combines the inhabited center with the Sorgenti del Vera Regional Nature Reserve. The protected natural area covers approximately 30 hectares, borders the inhabited center directly and was established in 1983. For your travel decision, nature here is combined with local history and traditions.

Spring Landscape and Special Wildlife

Several waterfalls at the sources of the Vera create a wild and impressive landscape. The endemic stonefly relative Taeniopteryx mercuryi lives in the river and occurs exclusively in a very limited area. Trail 3 (blue) lies in the heart of the Sorgenti del Vera Regional Nature Reserve and is recommended for hiking and birdwatching.

Circular Trails for Different Activities

In the northern area of Tempera, Trail 1 (green) follows a 1.2-kilometer circular route. It is recommended for mountain biking and trekking, as well as snowshoeing in snowy conditions. Trail 2 “Panoramico” (red) is an approximately 2.1-kilometer circular route through the northern area of Tempera and is recommended for mountain biking, roller skating and walks. The different lengths help with planning your day: Trail 1 is the shorter loop, while the approximately 2.1-kilometer Trail 2 covers more ground. Both trails combine exercise with the natural surroundings; the choice can therefore be adapted to the desired activity and route length.

Mills and Traditional Crafts

There are three watermills near the Sorgenti del Vera, one of which is still in operation. A paper mill dating from 1717 also stands there. The cultural and natural heritage FAI route along Via delle Mole includes a mill building with a grain-sorting facility, considered a modern use of an old craft building. Next to the mill building is the Rameria, a historic copper workshop. The route also includes the Mulino Gasbarri, which is associated with the traditional art of milling. The various stops focus on different aspects: water power, paper production, grain processing and copperworking. For travelers interested in cultural history, the mill landscape complements the natural experiences at the springs with concrete examples of traditional work.

Local History and Religious Traditions

Palazzo Vicentini is one of the notable aristocratic palaces in Tempera. A part of the Madonnine is regularly displayed in the Madonna delle Grazie chapel in Tempera. The patronal tradition of San Biagio is also part of the local character: a salty, bread-like fermented ring-shaped pastry with fennel seeds is prepared and then distributed to the entire community.

Festa della Trota and Specialties

The Festa della Trota takes place in Tempera from June 26 to 28. It is regarded as one of the traditional events particularly valued by the local community and is supported by Pro Loco Radici di Tempera. Traditional local specialties featuring trout are offered, along with fried pizza, arrosticini and sausage. According to tradition, the religious procession in honor of Saint Blaise passes through the streets of Tempera; a large fennel ring-shaped pastry is hung at the foot of the statue of Saint Blaise.

More Destinations

For further travel planning, you can also compare Pettorano Sul Gizio, Aielli, Roccacasale, San Giovanni Valle Roveto Superiore, Civitella Alfedena, Vittorito, Castel Di Sangro and Rivisondoli .

For the overarching travel overview: L-Aquila.