The Trabocchi Coast, whether you already know them or have never heard of them, in this article we will tell you – through 5 useful questions – what the Trabocchi in Abruzzo are.
These fascinating wooden structures, typical of the Adriatic coast, represent a unique historical and cultural heritage. You will discover their origin, their traditional use in fishing, how they are built and maintained, and the role they play in regional tourism today.
Get ready for a journey through the history and traditions of Abruzzo, to better understand these extraordinary symbols of the territory.
What were Trabocchi used for in ancient times?
Trabocchi are wooden structures created as an alternative to boat fishing. These marine stilts made it possible to capture the schools of fish passing along the coasts directly from land (“post fishing”), thus avoiding the dangers of the open sea.
In which part of Abruzzo is the Trabocchi Coast?
The Trabocchi Coast, located in Abruzzo in the province of Chieti, extends between the towns of Ortona and San Salvo. This coastal stretch begins in the north at the mouth of the Foro river, between the municipalities of Francavilla al Mare and Ortona, and ends in the south at the mouth of the Trigno river.
The coast is varied, alternating low, sandy beaches with pebbly stretches, often interrupted by cliffs. The characteristic trabocchi are found along the entire coast, continuing southwards to the Gargano (where, however, they take the name ‘Trabucchi’).
This coast, framed by valleys and hills that plunge into the sea, offers landscapes and natural environments of great diversity and beauty.
The area is renowned not only for its enchanting locations and crystal clear sea, but above all for the famous trabocchi that characterize it.
The towns that fall within this territory are, from north to south, Francavilla, Ortona, San Vito Chietino, Rocca San Giovanni, Fossacesia, Torino di Sangro, Casalbordino, Vasto and San Salvo.
What to do on the Trabocchi?
On the trabocchi you can enjoy delicious fresh fish dishes, enjoying a breathtaking view. Furthermore, educational activities are often organized that allow you to understand the functioning of these historic fishing structures, offering a unique experience of tradition and authentic flavours.
Is the restaurant on the Trabocchi open all year round?
It is only possible to eat on the trabocchi part of the year, generally from Easter week until August or September, depending on the weather conditions. During the winter, the trabocchi remain closed, reopening only with the arrival of good weather to offer their unique cuisine. Usually all trabocchi offer fixed menus which cost on average €50-60 per person.
What to do instead along the Costa dei Trabocchi?
Along the Costa dei Trabocchi, the activities are varied and fascinating.
- You can visit the Aragonese Castle of Ortona.
- Exploring the Punta Aderci Reserve
- Discover the various picturesque villages that dot the coast, culminating in the historic city of Vasto.
- Take a boat excursion that offers a unique perspective of the coast
- Go horseback riding for a total immersion in nature
- For cycling lovers, the cycle path offers a panoramic route that passes through breathtaking landscapes.
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