Pretoro, Mountain commune in Province of Chieti, Italy.
Pretoro is a commune perched at 560 meters elevation on a steep slope on the eastern side of the Maiella mountains in Abruzzo. The settlement climbs the hillside with buildings following the natural contours of the terrain.
Archaeological finds near Fonte Tasca show human settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. The fortified village took its present form around 1200.
The village carries forward a woodworking tradition tied to the surrounding beech forests, producing handcrafted items that reflect local skills. This craft heritage shapes how people here work and live.
The location offers easy access to winter sports at the Passo Lanciano-La Majelletta ski area and Adriatic beaches, both about 20 minutes away by car. The hillside setting means sturdy shoes and some climbing are needed to explore the village on foot.
Seven distinct quarters of the old town center participate in a roaming festival during the Night of San Lorenzo, each area displaying local music and food. This yearly event brings the different neighborhoods together around shared traditions.
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