Bolognano
Updated August 2020
Nestled within the Majella National Park, the origins of Bolgnano go back to the Neolithic period as evidenced in the important archaeological site of Grotta dei Piccioni which was inhabited 4000 years ago. The historical record is scarce between the Neolithic and Roman period, however Bolognano (Bolonianum) reappears in the historical record in 943 in the Chronicon Casauriense – a document that chronicles the history of the abbey of San Clemente a Casauria.
THINGS TO SEE
Historical Centre with Installation Art – Wander in the historic centre that dates back to medieval times. Strewn amongst the stone houses, narrow pathways and arches you will come across installation art
Joseph Beuys and his connection to Bolognano – In Defence of Nature The avant garde artist and environmentalist Joseph Beuys visited Bolognano from 1972 until 1985 as a guest of Buby Dorini and Lucrezia De Domizio. In Bolognano he carried out a series of artistic activities including planting 400 oak trees in Bolognano as a part of the Paradise Plantation – a restoration of biodiversity project (1984) and the work Olivestone (1984) now on display in Zurich. His legacy is also in a small piazza named after him and and a mural that bears his image as you enter Bolognano.
Francesco Paolo Michetti painting – Portal where you can admire the view that inspired “The Harvest of the Pumpkins” painting by the famous Abruzesse artist Francesco Paolo Michetti
‘Harvest of the Pumpkins’
Zaccagnini Winery – A locally run winery in a gorgeous mountain setting with art inspired architecture and sculptures. To organise a tour, make an appointment
Chiesa Madonna delle Grazie – Located along the Provincial Bolognano-Musellaro-Salle road, lies an enchanting church. Construction 15th century. The inscription on the church GAVDE LETARE VIRGO MARIA ALL ‘A.D. 14 (Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary, alleluia) is from the “Regina caeli“ a chant possibly from the 12th century. In the first half of the 13th century it was used by Franciscans.
Zaccagnini Winery Madonna delle Grazie Church
WALKS
Walks – these are rated as T – turistico (tourist) – walks have flat or easy gradients and a wide, smooth, solid trail tread. Paths are under 1hr and in good weather conditions there are no difficulties in orienteering.
Walks are within walking distance of Bolognano historic centre
Grotta Scura walk (Dark Cave) – a short 15 nature walk that takes you down to an impressive cave
Bolognano to Musellaro Walk A3 – 40 minute easy walk that takes you through woodlands and clearings for views of the Majella mountains
Madonna del Monte to Piano d’Orta – 50 minute walk in woodlands with varying topography and views of river Orta.
La Cisterna Walk – Bolognano – a nature walk with views of the Valley of River Orta (the walk to La Cisterna watering hole is currently closed)
Grotta dei Piccioni Bolognano (currently closed) An important archaeology site for Abruzzese history. It dates back to the Neolithic Age and contained first traces of humans in the region. The cave remains closed due to structural damage sustained during the 2009 earthquake.
MORE INFO
Visit Bolognano A site with comprehensive information on Bolognano, including places to stay and the connection with Joseph Beuy. (The site is in Italian however if you right click on the page you can translate into English).
Cooperativa di Comunità ViviOrta Bolognano PE Facebook page – a newly formed local cooperative that can organise tours in the local area
Archeoclub “Vado del Ceraso” – based in Piano d’Orta (municipality of Bolognano).
Association of volunteers dedicated to the rediscovery of the historical and cultural aspects of the local area. Includes history of the local area.