Its divine location in the Gran Sasso National Park contributes significantly to its beauty, with a breathtaking backdrop of the Rocca Calascio and the Campo Imperatore, the surrounding scenery is second to none.
Santo Stefano di Sessanio has for some years been successful in attracting investors to the town, which has contributed to tourism development and the renovation of the town's many peculiar buildings (many of which needed a loving hand).
Read more about Santo Stefano di Sessanio
This beautiful 14th Century town is built like a spiral that leads up to the town's former landmark of the medieval tower, which unfortunately collapsed during the earthquake of April 2009. While walking around the town, you will see many examples of the conservation work that has been undertaken including the church of Santo Stefano and loggia of Casa del Capitano. Considering the great work that has gone into the preservation of the town, it is therefore not surprising that the town has been included on the prestigious list of Italy's most beautiful medieval towns I borghi più belli d'Italia.
The town is located at 1250 metres above sea level and had more than 4,000 inhabitants in its heyday. Now following intense periods of migration and urbanization, there are now less than 100 permanent residents. It is paradoxically, the fact that many of the buildings have been vacated, that they were available to be restored in such a way, and thus now lend themselves to be used as holiday accommodation
With 6 restaurants with slightly varying opening hours, there should be ample opportunity to find an eatery in the town, including the evocative Locanda Sotto gli Archi. The town has also recreated some active workshops for weaving and soap production, just as one can get access to witness how a school functioned in bygone times.
