FAI Fall Days 2024, scheduled for Oct. 12 and 13, offer a unique opportunity to explore more than 700 extraordinary places throughout Italy, spread across 360 cities. In Abruzzo, there will be 30 openings in 12 villages and towns, while in the province of Rome numerous historic and cultural sites will be accessible, offering a wide range of experiences for visitors.
Sulmona and its Historic Palaces
Sulmona, famous for the production of sugared almonds, opens the doors of its historic buildings. Palazzo Mazzara, rebuilt after the 1706 earthquake, is an example of 18th-century architecture that tells the story of the city. Guided tours will offer an immersion in local culture and art, with details on frescoes and period furnishings.
Recommended exit: Pratola Peligna/Sulmona (A25)
Caves of Pietrasecca
The Pietrasecca Caves, located in the nature reserve of the same name, are a site of community interest. Deer Cave, discovered in 1984, is famous for its extraordinary white concretions. Guided tours will allow visitors to explore these natural wonders, offering a unique caving experience.
Recommended exit: Carsoli/Oricola (A24)
Canyon of Fara San Martino
The Canyons of Fara San Martino are another must-see natural attraction. These canyons offer spectacular natural landscapes and are the starting point for hikes in Majella National Park. During FAI Days, expert guides will take visitors through trails that reveal the wild beauty of this protected area.
Recommended exit: Manoppello (A25)
Ghost Town of Rocca Santa Maria (TE)
The Ghost Village of Rocca Santa Maria, located in the province of Teramo, is a fascinating place that tells stories of abandonment and rebirth. Guided tours will allow visitors to explore the ruins and learn about the history of this once thriving village, now shrouded in silence.
Recommended exit: Teramo (A24)
The Palaces of Pianella
In Pianella, visitors will discover historic buildings that testify to the region’s rich architectural history. These buildings, often closed to the public, will open their doors to reveal frescoes, interior courtyards and unique architectural details.
Recommended exit: Chieti/Pescara (A25)
Discoveries in Marsica: Avezzano and its surroundings
Marsica, with its rich historical and cultural heritage, offers several opportunities to visit. The Orsini-Colonna Castle in Avezzano, built in the 15th century, will be accessible for exploring its towers and ramparts. A few kilometers away, Alba Fucens offers a fascinating journey through time with its Roman ruins. The Church of Santa Maria in Valle Porclaneta in Rosciolo dei Marsi, with its frescoes and wooden iconostasis, will be open for guided tours. Finally, the Zompo lo Schioppo Nature Reserve will offer guided hikes among spectacular mountain landscapes.
Recommended exit: Magliano dei Marsi and Avezzano (A25)
Extraordinary visits in and around Chieti
In the province of Chieti, FAI Days will offer the opportunity to visit places of great historical and cultural interest. These include the Cathedral of San Giustino, the National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo, and theAbbey of San Giovanni in Venere near Fossacesia, famous for its medieval frescoes.
Recommended exit: Chieti/Pescara (A25)
Special openings in and around Tivoli
Hermitage of San Cosimato in Vicovaro: This ancient monastic complex, set in rock, will be open on an exceptional basis. Guided tours will allow visitors to explore the frescoed caves and chapels, offering a unique spiritual and historical experience.
Roviano Castle: During FAI Days, visitors can explore the towers and walls of the medieval castle, discovering the history of the place through exhibits and information panels.
Recommended exit: Vicovaro/Mandela (A24)
Special openings in and around L’Aquila
Basilica of San Bernardino: In L’Aquila, the Basilica of San Bernardino will be open for guided tours explaining the recent restorations and history of this important place of worship.
Spanish Fort: This imposing 16th-century fort, a landmark of the city, will offer guided tours to explore its defensive structures and learn about the military history of the region.
Recommended exit: L’Aquila Ovest (A24)
Special openings to the Teramo coastline
Cerrano Tower: Located along the Adriatic coast, the Cerrano Tower is one of the ancient coastal towers of the Kingdom of Naples. During FAI Days, it will be possible to visit the tower and its maritime museum, discovering the history of coastal defense.
Recommended exit: Pineto-Atri (A14) reached via interconnection with A25
Rome: Villa Bonaparte and other wonders
In Rome, in addition to Villa Maraini, it will be possible to visit Villa Bonaparte, an elegant historic building that offers a unique view of the city. This villa, usually closed to the public, will be accessible for guided tours explaining its history and architecture.
Other attractions in Rome
In addition to Villa Bonaparte, Rome will offer access to numerous other historical and cultural sites. These include Palazzo della Cancelleria, a Renaissance masterpiece, and Villa Torlonia, with its gardens and Casino Nobile. These tours will allow visitors to discover hidden corners of the Eternal City, enriching their cultural experience.
These extraordinary openings during FAI Fall Days 2024 offer a unique opportunity to discover and appreciate the cultural and natural heritage of central Italy. With a mix of history, art and nature, visitors will enjoy unforgettable experiences in a setting of extraordinary beauty.
