Palena Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the historic village in Abruzzo
Table of Contents
Palena
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Latest page update: 21 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Palena is situated within the Province of Chieti in the central Italian region of Abruzzo. On 1 January 2022 it had a population of 1,307 inhabitants. Standing at an elevation of 767 metres above sea level, the comune covers 91 square kilometres.
Palena has been listed among Touring Club Italia's Bandiera Arancione or Orange Flag towns since 2006. |
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Palena lies at the southern end of the Majella National Park and one of its main attractions is a brown bear sanctuary. The Area Faunistica dell'Orso Bruno allows its visitors to see the brown bears in their natural habitat but at a safe distance.
The brown bear is further studied at a museum on the other side of town called the MOM Marsicano Bear Museum. A couple of kilometres south of the town and just off the main road are the Sorgenti dell'Aventino: a series of waterfalls and streams.
Palena has an attractive centro storico with a number of interesting buildings including the Castello Ducale di Palena which houses a palaeontology museum (Museo Geopaleontologico dell'Alto Aventino). There's also a small theatre (Teatro Aventino) in the town while most life takes place around its main square: Piazza Municipio.
The brown bear is further studied at a museum on the other side of town called the MOM Marsicano Bear Museum. A couple of kilometres south of the town and just off the main road are the Sorgenti dell'Aventino: a series of waterfalls and streams.
Palena has an attractive centro storico with a number of interesting buildings including the Castello Ducale di Palena which houses a palaeontology museum (Museo Geopaleontologico dell'Alto Aventino). There's also a small theatre (Teatro Aventino) in the town while most life takes place around its main square: Piazza Municipio.
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Discover Palena
Palena is a charming village located in the province of Chieti, in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. Nestled in the heart of the Majella Mountains, it is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including rolling hills, forests, and rugged mountain peaks. The village exudes a peaceful atmosphere, with its narrow cobbled streets and traditional stone buildings, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's long history and rural way of life.
The surrounding area is ideal for outdoor activities, with hiking trails that lead through the Majella National Park, a place known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery. The park’s dense forests and alpine meadows provide a serene backdrop for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, the nearby ski resort of Passo Lanciano offers a variety of winter sports and snow-covered landscapes.
Close by, the town of Lanciano, known for its medieval architecture and religious landmarks, is just a short drive away. To the east, the Adriatic coast is accessible, with coastal towns such as Vasto offering beaches and seafront attractions. Palena, with its natural beauty, historical charm, and proximity to both the mountains and coast, serves as an ideal location for exploring the Abruzzo region.
The surrounding area is ideal for outdoor activities, with hiking trails that lead through the Majella National Park, a place known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery. The park’s dense forests and alpine meadows provide a serene backdrop for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, the nearby ski resort of Passo Lanciano offers a variety of winter sports and snow-covered landscapes.
Close by, the town of Lanciano, known for its medieval architecture and religious landmarks, is just a short drive away. To the east, the Adriatic coast is accessible, with coastal towns such as Vasto offering beaches and seafront attractions. Palena, with its natural beauty, historical charm, and proximity to both the mountains and coast, serves as an ideal location for exploring the Abruzzo region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Majella National Park: Palena is a gateway to the Majella National Park, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the opportunity to spot local wildlife.
- Historic Centre: The village's historic centre is a charming area with narrow cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and historical landmarks, such as the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Palazzo dell'Annunziata.
- Panoramic Views: Palena offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Majella mountains and the surrounding countryside, providing visitors with excellent opportunities for photography and relaxation.
- Local Crafts: The village is known for its traditional crafts, including woodcarving and wrought iron work, which visitors can discover at local workshops and craft stores.
- Regional Cuisine: Palena offers a taste of authentic Abruzzese cuisine at local trattorias, where visitors can savor traditional dishes made with local ingredients, including hearty mountain fare.
- Festivals and Events: Palena hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating local traditions, music, and arts.
Comune di Palena
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Province: Chieti
Region: Abruzzo Population: 1,216 (in 2024 - source) Size: 91 km² Elevation: 767 metres Highlights: Sorgenti dell'Aventino, Area Faunistica dell'Orso Bruno Close by: Lama dei Peligni, Pescocostanzo, Rivisondoli, Roccaraso Recommended hotel: Relais Ducale Spa & Pool (16 km) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Listed since: 2006
1 of 6 in Abruzzo listed by Touring Club Italiano
Listed since: 2006
1 of 6 in Abruzzo listed by Touring Club Italiano
