Surrounded by rose beds and oleanders, these splendid vineyards are perfectly aligned by the hands of these expert wine growers. This noble family has been producing wine for centuries and this is in fact one of the best known wine cellars of the Salento. As you walk down the rows you can appreciate all the work that goes toward maintaining the vines: a combination of the latest technology as well as more traditional methods like those used to kill parasites which are in harmony with the surrounding habitat.
This monastery was built on the ancient Tiburtina Valeria, in an area which was popular for trade and where travelers stopped (Kasaura was the name of a nearby tavern-brothel). It is one of Italy's most significant examples of Benedictine art. Ludovico II had it built in 871; it was then improved between 1176 and 1182 by workers brought from the south. It is more significant that the monastery at Montecassino. The monks who lived here wrote the Chronicon Casauriense which is an important document for Italian history. The portico has three arches and features a sequence of ornaments and figures celebrating of the power of God, of the monastery and of the people who funded the monastery. Representations of the evangelists, the apostles and other biblical characters are featured together with patron emperors of the monastery and the abbot Leonate, who was in charge of the re-foundation in the 12th Century. The relief on the lintel explains the birth of the church.
Formed of karst plateaus, deep valleys and rugged highlands, the Maiella National Park encompasses some of Italy's most dramatic wilderness. The Maiella, Morrone, Porrara, and Monti Pizzi form the core of the park, surrounded by valleys, plateaus and plains. From the desolate Alpine tundra to lush grasslands and forests teeming with life, the park helps preserve a vibrant habitat that has remained largely undisturbed by civilization. A cornucopia of wonders await discovery amid the stalactites and stalagmites of the caves of Maiella, while the forests are alive with birdsong. Known for its biodiversity, Brown Bears, Apennine Wolves, Golden Eagles and Abruzzo Chamois are just a few of the wild creatures that roam the park. A rarity in many ways, the Maiella National Park is a wonderland for nature lovers and the adventurous at heart. Several museums, botanic preserves and visitor centers are found throughout the park.
Museo civico aufidenate is located in the 15th century Castel di Sangro and was established in 1898. The building has served as a French monastery and holds various temporary exhibitions as well. The have close to 335 artifacts on display and the museum focuses on showcasing the archaeological findings from the area. Apart from Roman and Medieval pieces of art; the museum has on display ceramics and pottery from various ages.