Discover Navelli: Saffron, Borgo and Churches

Navelli combines an impressive medieval historic centre with a distinctive culinary tradition: the Zafferano dell’Aquila DOP saffron is cultivated here, while the chickpeas from Navelli are small and have an intense flavour. Those planning a trip can therefore combine culture, landscapes, seasonal experiences and regional cuisine.

Fortified Borgo and Historic Churches

The fortified borgo of Navelli emerged around the 14th century and was surrounded by imposing town walls. Its layout reveals much about the origins of the settlement: Via del Macello follows the line of the steepest gradient as its main axis. Narrow lanes branch off on both sides, following the contour lines and meeting the main axis at right angles. Houses made of local stone stand in rows along these routes, using the natural rock as their foundations. A walk through Navelli thus becomes a vivid encounter with the history of the town.

The parish church of San Sebastiano was built on the remains of the ancient medieval fortified town. Its 16th-century wooden portal leads directly to the central nave; access to the church is free for everyone. In its lower levels, San Sebastiano also preserves one of the largest and best-preserved collections of natural mummies in Italy. Palazzo Santucci, on the other hand, is currently unusable because of the damage caused by the L’Aquila earthquake.

Further sacred details complete the picture of the town. Sant’Egidio features Late Gothic frescoes in the apse basin, including an image of Christ Pantocrator surrounded by angels, worshippers and musicians. On Sant’Antonio da Padova, the year 1480 is carved above the portal in Gothic lettering; the building was reopened as early as November 2011. In Civitaretenga, a covered passageway with a series of elaborate supporting arches runs beneath the residential buildings above, leading through the old Jewish quarter to Piazza Giudea.

Saffron, Chickpeas and an Autumn Experience

Zafferano dell’Aquila saffron is cultivated in Navelli and received the protected designation of origin DOP in 2005. This tradition is particularly vivid during the saffron harvest: in autumn, especially between mid-October and early November, visitors can take part in the harvest in the fields. The flowers are then plucked and dried. Those planning a trip during this period experience not only a regional product, but also the individual stages of its processing.

The Sagra dei Ceci e dello Zafferano is a recurring gastronomic festival in Navelli. At this event, the Ceci di Navelli and Zafferano dell’Aquila DOP, both recognised as Slow Food Presidia, are used in traditional dishes and gastronomic specialities. The chickpeas are distinguished by their small size and intense flavour. Looking for a holiday apartment in Navelli can therefore be particularly interesting if you value self-catering, regional products and a stay focused on culinary experiences.

Karst Landscape and Traditional Festivals

The landscape also has a character of its own. The Navelli area is shaped by karst. Sinkholes, depressions and caves can be found on the slopes of the elevations; local residents use the caves as storage rooms or shelters for animals. These features add a scenic perspective on the surroundings to the exploration of the borgo.

Traditional festivals are also part of local life. The Palio degli Asini is a popular folk tradition in Navelli. The festival of Madonna dell’Arco is celebrated on the Sunday after 8 September, on the day of the Most Holy Name of Mary, and reaches its climax after midnight with the so-called “tiro dello squadro”. When looking for accommodation, you can therefore consider whether to focus your stay on the autumn saffron, the history of the town, the karst landscape or a festival date.

Further Places for Planning Your Trip

If you would like to compare other destinations besides Navelli, here is a compact selection: Poggio Picenze, Castelvecchio Subequo, Civita D'antino, Gagliano Aterno, Castelvecchio Calvisio, Pianelle, Santo Stefano Di Sessanio and Pettorano Sul Gizio.

For the overarching travel overview: L-Aquila.