Pettorano sul Gizio
Updated July 2020
The origins of Pettorano date back to medieval times including as a Norman outpost but there have been human settlements since the Paleothic era.
Most of Pettorano was rebuilt after the 1706 earthquake.
It is one of ‘i borghi piu belli d’Italia’ (most beautiful villages in Italy) .
The Palazzo Croce contains a piece of the “Edictum de Pretiis Rerum Venalium”. This Edict was issued in 301AD by the Roman Emperor Diocletian and set maximum prices for trade. This piece is the only one found in the West and the only one in Greek (the other fragments found have been in Latin). The edict was believed to have been transported in the 19th century. It was discovered in the palazzo during restoration works in 1933. (currently not on public display).
THINGS TO SEE
Piazza Zannelli – a colourful cozy piazza which reminded me a little of Mexico with its hues of orange
Cantelmo Castle – 11th century – a small but impressive castle that was part of the defensive fort system that included Pacentro, Introdacqua, Capestrano, Popoli. You can do a tour of the castle which is excellent and it has beautiful views of the Peligna Valley.
Historic Centre – Take a wander around the historic centre
Roman Epigraph– A fragment of a Roman epigraph 11AD. The name ‘Lucius Vibius’ can be deciphered
Porta San Marco – part of six medieval gates, it includes the statue of St Anthony of Padua
Fountain Piazza Umberto I – 1897 with two bronze statues that depict Neptune and Salacia
EAT THE LOCAL SPECIALITY
Pizza di San Martino – a delicious cake that includes nuts, chocolate (you can find this at the bar in Piazza Zannelli)
NOTABLE PEOPLE
Pietro de Stephanis (1807-1894) – a notary, local historian and government official. In 1865 he put forward a motion against the death penalty in council which passed. For the times this was a revolutionary act and revealed his progressive agenda.
MORE INFO
Comune (local council) of Pettorano (in italian)