Civitella Alfedena, Italian comune
Civitella Alfedena is a small commune located over 1100 meters high on the southern edge of Lake Barrea, surrounded by the mountains of Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park. The settlement with fewer than 300 residents consists of white stone houses along narrow winding streets and features a cylindrical defensive tower from the 15th century, the Church of Santa Lucia, and several other historic buildings.
The area has been inhabited for over 18000 years, as artifacts in the Graziani Cave demonstrate. During Roman times it was pastoral land, and later the economy developed mainly around sheep herding and wool trade, particularly after King Alfonso I of Naples reopened old trade routes in the 15th century.
The name Civitella comes from Latin "Civitas", reflecting its ancient settlement origins. Visitors can experience mountain living culture today through the narrow streets, white stone houses, and small squares where residents gather, maintaining traditions passed down through generations.
The town is accessible via the Strada Statale 83 road running through the park, with most exploration done on foot through narrow streets. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for navigating the steep terrain and surrounding trails leading to the lake and nearby forest areas.
The town was so isolated that many residents emigrated in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly to America. This wave of migration deeply shaped local history and reminds visitors of how harsh life once was in this remote mountain region.
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