Discover Pianella: Ceramics, Olive Oil and Scenic Routes

Pianella combines a multifaceted cultural heritage with scenic routes and regional specialities. The designation Castrum Planellae appears in old documents for the settlement, which was equipped with a fortification.

City Gate, Churches and Ceramic Culture

The Arco di San Silvestro is one of Pianella’s old city gates. Access is free, making it an uncomplicated part of your sightseeing in the town. The Chiesa di San Domenico offers deeper insight into the town’s architectural history: its masonry is late Romanesque, while overlays from the Renaissance and Baroque periods are also recognisable.

The Chiesa di Sant'Antonio Abate likewise combines different historical layers. It was built on an existing medieval structure. Its only chapel contains the body of Saint Ciriaca, a virgin and martyr, in a glass urn. Those interested in sacred art and the religious history of Italian towns will find another tangible connection to Pianella’s past here.

The Museo dell'Artigianato Ceramico Abruzzese is municipally owned and displays more than 400 ceramics dating from the 16th to the 20th century. A reservation at 333 351 7289 is required for a visit. If you are in Pianella over Easter, you can experience Lu Bbongiorne on Easter Sunday afternoon. The centuries-old tradition, attributed to the Lombard period, is still very much alive despite some changes and attracts lively participation.

Panoramic Views and Routes Through the Landscape

The Belvedere “Andrea Pietrolungo” includes a spacious amphitheatre. From there, it offers a wide view of the Majella massif to the south. The viewpoint thus combines a tangible impression of the landscape with a structural element that is part of Pianella’s character.

Two thematically distinct circular routes are central to exploring the surrounding area. Le Vie dell’Olio is a tourist circular route of approximately 10 kilometres through Pianella’s landscape and olive groves. The route runs entirely along paved roads and can be travelled on foot, by bicycle or by car. Le Vie dei Laghi is longer, at approximately 18 kilometres, and leads through the nature and landscape of the Pianella area; this circular route also runs entirely along paved roads and can be used on foot, by bicycle or by car.

The lakes located along Le Vie dei Laghi provide a habitat for numerous resident and migratory species of waterbirds. This means that this part of the landscape is aimed not only at walkers and cyclists, but also offers a clear point of interest for nature and birdwatching.

Olive Oil and Regional Products

The olive oil for which Pianella is known is produced from the “dritta” variety. Another local speciality is Tondino del Tavo. It is characterised by a very thin skin, which allows for quick preparation and easy digestion. Together with the olive groves, these products also give a culinary dimension to a trip to Pianella.

Highlights for Your Stay

When planning a stay at a hotel in Pianella, you can structure your days around different interests: the city gates, churches and ceramics museum represent culture and history; the Belvedere offers views of the Majella; and the two circular routes are ideal for experiencing the landscape and staying active. The olive oil made from the “dritta” variety and Tondino del Tavo add regional themes. The approximate lengths of approximately 10 and approximately 18 kilometres will help you compare the two circular routes when making your own plans.

More Destinations in the Same Area

Manoppello, Cappelle Sul Tavo, Elice, Montebello Di Bertona, Villareia, Civitaquana, Alanno, Spoltore

To the higher-level travel overview: Pescara.