Calascio​

Latest page update: 6 March 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The village of Calascio is situated within the Province of l'Aquila and has a population of 136 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 1,210 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 39 km². There are 6 hotels within 5 km while nearby places of interest include Rocca Calascio, Castelvecchio Calvisio & Castel del Monte.
Related links
Calascio • Abruzzo • Historic Village
Calascio is a small village located in the province of L'Aquila, in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. Perched at an altitude of approximately 1,200 metres, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the expansive Gran Sasso National Park. The village is most famous for its impressive medieval fortress, Rocca Calascio, which sits above the town and is one of the highest fortresses in Italy. The fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and has become a popular spot for visitors interested in history and photography.

The village itself is quaint and quiet, with narrow streets and traditional stone houses, reflecting its long-standing heritage. Calascio is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous hiking trails that lead through the beautiful mountains and forests of the region. The area is also popular with nature lovers, with wildlife such as deer, wild boar, and birds of prey inhabiting the park.

Nearby, the town of Santo Stefano di Sessanio provides more historical sites and access to hiking routes in the Gran Sasso park. To the south, the village of Castelvecchio Calvisio offers additional medieval landmarks, while the city of L'Aquila, with its rich cultural heritage, is just a short drive away. Calascio, with its historical significance, natural beauty, and proximity to both outdoor activities and cultural attractions, is a perfect base for exploring the heart of Abruzzo.​
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Rocca Calascio: The highlight of a visit to Calascio is the Rocca Calascio, a medieval fortress that sits atop a rocky outcrop. The fortress is one of the highest in Italy and offers breathtaking views of the Gran Sasso and Majella mountain ranges.
  • Historical Centre: Calascio's historical centre is a charming maze of narrow streets, stone houses, and ancient churches, where visitors can immerse themselves in the village's rich history and architecture.
  • Santa Maria della Pietà Church: The village is home to the Santa Maria della Pietà Church, a small but beautiful church dating back to the 14th century, with a lovely rose window and frescoes.
  • Natural Beauty: Surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park, Calascio is an excellent starting point for hiking and trekking adventures. The area is also known for its wildflowers and wildlife.
  • Authentic Cuisine: Visitors can savor the local cuisine of Abruzzo, which includes dishes such as arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers), pasta dishes like "scrippelle" (crepes) and "chitarra" (spaghetti), and hearty soups.
  • Festivals and Events: Calascio hosts various cultural events and festivals, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional music, dance, and folklore.
  • Staying in Calascio: There are a few charming accommodations in the village, including small hotels and guesthouses, allowing tourists to experience the tranquility of the area.
Comune di Calascio
Province: L'Aquila

Region: Abruzzo

Population: 124 (in 2024 - source)

​​​​Size: 39 km²

Elevation: 1,210 metres

​Close by: Rocca Calascio, Castelvecchio Calvisio, Castel del Monte​

Recommended hotel: Sextantio Albergo Diffuso (6 km)

Calascio​​  Gallery

    Private  Transfer  Request

    WE OFFER PRIVATE TRANSFERS ACROSS THE WHOLE OF ITALY!
    To request the price and availability of any transfer route in Italy please use the form below or contact us via the [email protected] mailbox. Make sure you've included details such as the name of the hotel, name of the town/city or which airport/train station where relevant. Our English booking team will get back to you ASAP to assist with your enquiry.

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via my Italy Review Blog or via  the Facebook and Instagram pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.