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Ocre, Abruzzo, Italy

Ocre is a town in L' Aquila, Abruzzo, Italy

Set in 140 hectares, Ocre perches on the north-eastern slopes of Monte D'Ocre (2206 mt.) and is part of the Parco Naturale Regionale del Sirente-Velino, instituted by Abruzzo region in 1989. The name of the town, Ocre, derives from the old Greek termocrìs (i.e. rugged) thus emphasizing its high and defensive location.

From its commanding position, Ocre overlooks the Middle Valley of Aterno and such defensive position is highlighted by the presence of two valuable artistic monuments, the Monastery of Santo Spirito Accommodations (XII c.) and the Castle. Built in 1222 by Beato Placido of Roio on a piece of land donated by Count Berardo of Ocre, the Monastery is the third Cistercian settlement, in order of foundation, in the Abruzzo region and the first in the Valley of L'Aquila.

The Castle, mentioned for the first time in 1178 in a document issued by Pope Alexander III, is the suggestive evidence of a defensive and strategic architecture in a territory that played a decisive role during the Late Middle Ages. Destroyed in 1280, the Castle was rebuilt and in 1424 became the scene of the exploits of Fortebraccio of Montone. Today we can still admire its impressive walls strengthened by seven towers, the best preserved in Abruzzo, covering a 470 mt. perimeter. Historically, the town of Ocre has always comprised of 5 "ville" (hamlets): San Panfilo, seat of the town hall, San Felice, San Martino, Valle and Cavalletto; a mosaic of old stone houses, charming views and sloping lanes suddenly vanishing into secret gardens.

As regards to its origins, the discovery of some inscriptions, between Valle and San Felice, suggests the existence of a settlement of the Vestini, an Italic population that inhabited the Abruzzo region before the Roman arrival, even though the existence of Ocre is documented only after the middle of the XII century.

The Remains of the Castle in Ocre

The three most suggestive monuments in Abruzzo, the Castle, the Monastery of Santo Spirito Accommodations and the Convent of Sant'Angelo that from its breathtaking heights overlooks the Valley of Aterno; a minor artistic heritage, including 13 churches scattered all over the territory where the works of famous artists are kept, such as Francesco of Montereale and Saturnino Gatti, make Ocre a unique destination for a relaxing and charming stay.

Need a place to stay in Ocre or Fossa? we recommend Monastery of Santo Spirito Accommodations

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