VILLALAGO


Villalago is at about 25 Km from Sulmona and its origin dates back to the XI century following Christian and Benedictine inspiration which was realised through St. Domenico Abate's foundation of St. Pietro in Lago's monastery, in the high valley of Sagittario.
Starting from the main square, the town climbs in amphitheatre on the East side of Argoneta Mountain with a suggestive succession of steps, lanes and small squares and is surrounded by mountains with Turkey oaks and beeches woods bordering on the National Park of Abruzzi.
When going up the stairways, the parish church in Romanesque-Abruzzi style can be seen as well as the "Porticella" where a small gate leading to the inner centre was once situated.
The lanes, the small staircases, the arches, the old houses create tormented atmospheres which become more and more so as the highest part of the town is reached. Here, a big tower called "Torrione" which has been used as prison and look-out tower since the Lombardic domination stands out.
While leaving Villalago and going towards Villalago Riviera, St. Mary's Church can be seen. Villalago Riviera represents a bridge and the contuinty between Villalago and its lake.