Cantine Aperte a Castrum Petrae

Cantine Aperte a Castrum Petrae, the wine festival of San Valentino

In the heart of autumn, the village of San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore (in the province of Pescara, Abruzzo) opens its cellar doors for one of the region's most beloved food and wine events: Cantine Aperte a Castrum Petrae. The name recalls the village's ancient Latin designation, perched among the Pescara hills on the slopes of the Maiella National Park.

A culinary journey through the historic center

The festival is designed as a true food and wine trail that traverses the upper part of the village, winding from Piazza Duomo to the Castle, and continuing to the Fossil and Amber Museum. Along the route, you will find tasting stations set up by local associations and volunteers, where you can sample traditional Abruzzo peasant specialties.

The flavors of the Abruzzo autumn

The festival menu is a journey through local dishes, served hot along the village streets:

• Polenta and sagne with chickpeas
• Pallotte cacio e ove (cheese and egg balls), a signature dish of Abruzzo's cucina povera
• Chestnuts, grilled sausages, and stew
• Rustic soups, fried pizzas, and pancetta sandwiches

The dishes are perfectly paired with Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, the region's great red wine, along with new wine and, at the Fossil and Amber Museum, traditional mulled wine.

Music, shows, and markets

Beyond the gastronomy, the event offers a rich entertainment program: evening DJ sets in Piazza Duomo, live shows, street music, local craft markets, workshops, and games for children. The atmosphere, amidst the illuminated streets of the historic center, attracts thousands of visitors every year from across Abruzzo and neighboring regions.

A landmark event for the Municipality

Organized by the Municipality of San Valentino in Abruzzo Citeriore in collaboration with local associations, Cantine Aperte a Castrum Petrae is now a well-established tradition, successfully showcasing both local food and wine and the village's historical heritage, from the Duomo to the Castle, passing through the unique Fossil and Amber Museum.