Discover the historical and cultural treasures of Isola del Gran Sasso:
castles, palazzi and art
The evocative ruins of Pagliara Castle stand on the slopes of Isola del Gran Sasso, recounting centuries of history. Built with limestone blocks and with its majestic circular bastions, this castle was the residence of the noble Collepietro-Pagliara family and was key in the history of the Valle Siciliana feudal estate. Today, it is also an important pilgrimage destination thanks to the family’s connection with Saint Bernard.
Built on a rocky spur overlooking the Mavone River, the Castello dell’Isola is the beating heart of the medieval feudal estate. Once flourishing thanks to agriculture, sheep farming and wool trade, the castle still preserves the remains of its imposing ramparts and double loggia, bearing witness to the power of the noble families who owned it since the 12th century.
The majestic Palazzo Henrici de Angelis is a real architectural gem. Built in the 17th century by the Uranij family, it later passed to the Ottavini family, before coming into the possession of the noble De Angelis family in the 19th century. The stone and brick facade, the frescoed hall and the private chapel are just some of the features that make it an extraordinary example of historical architecture.
San Pietro has become a veritable open-air museum thanks to a street art project featuring murals and graffiti inspired by the novels of Lucia Marcone. The works, painted by renowned artist Jorge Cristoph Grunert, tell stories of struggle, emancipation and female identity. A visual journey that combines art, culture and identity in the heart of Isola del Gran Sasso.
