Loreto Aprutino

Loreto Aprutino is a medieval commune in Pescara Province, central Italy, situated at 307 meters elevation amid olive groves and farmland. The town preserves medieval streets and historic buildings that reflect its old layout, and has long been known for olive oil production and ceramic craftsmanship.

The settlement began as a Roman site called Lauretum and was developed further around 1000 by Benedictine monks who built a castle and abbey. This monastic presence helped shape the town's structure and establish it as a center for trade and crafts.

The Ceramics Museum preserves local artistic traditions through regional pottery from different periods. The collection reflects the area's craft heritage and how people have worked with clay here for centuries.

The town is accessible by regular bus connections and offers guided tours through its medieval streets and olive oil facilities. Visitors find it best to explore early in the day before the place becomes crowded.

During the San Zopito festival each spring, a child dressed in white rides a decorated white ox through the town streets. This rare ritual combines local devotion with an unusual tradition that few other places have kept alive.

Location: Province of Pescara

Capital city: Loreto Aprutino

Elevation above the sea: 307 m

Shares border with: Catignano, Civitella Casanova, Collecorvino, Moscufo, Penne, Picciano, Civitaquana, Pianella

Website: http://comune.loretoaprutino.pe.it

GPS coordinates: 42.43472,13.98361

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02