Pescopennataro is a charming village located at the northern tip of the region famous for its sheer cliffs and houses carved in stone. Set on a rocky outcrop at an altitude of 1,200 meters, it dominates the entire Sangro valley and, on clear days, affords views that extend to the Adriatic coast. Known as the “village of stone” for the tradition of stonemasons and nicknamed “village of fir trees” for the presence of these conifers, Pescopennataro is a member of the “Authentic Villages of Italy” association.
The village’s roots go back into the past, having been founded around the 11th century. The name derives from its location on a rock-“pesclum” or “peschio”-whose pointed conformation (pinnata) inspired its identity. In 1811 it was aggregated to the Capracotta district along with Sant’Angelo del Pesco, forming a single municipality, only to regain autonomy in May 1816.
The historical and artistic heritage is remarkable. The Mother Church of St. Bartholomew the Apostle, built in 1654, is notable for its impressive gilded wooden altar. The medieval “Porta Di Sopra” testifies to the village’s defensive past, while on the heights there remain traces of an ancient castle that has now disappeared. The church dedicated to Our Lady of Grace, although a single nave, surprises with the effect of three aisles and houses the unique statue of St. Anthony Abbot depicted with a wild boar. The Piazza del Popolo Fountain, dating back to the mid-18th century, completes the beauty of the village.
The “Chiara Marinelli” Civic Stone Museum is a key attraction, with a prehistoric collection divided into two sections: one dedicated to the art of stonemasons and the other to the history of stone. In addition, the Hermitage of St. Luke, although belonging to Sant’Angelo del Pesco, is widely visited by locals.
The area offers unspoiled nature: the Dell’Impero Woods-Pinocchio Park, the SCI areas of the Vallazzuna Woods and Soprani Firs, the Ateleta-Biferno sheep-track and the Duck Lakes Wetland, creating an evocative panorama. From the Samnite Warrior Lookout there is a fascinating view, enhanced by the depiction of an ancient warrior.
Traditions include the traditional bonfire in Piazza del Popolo on January 16, while in September St. Luke the Evangelist is celebrated.
Local cuisine exalts meat, fresh or in cured meats, and fine olive oil, symbols of the area’s quality.