Christmas in the Village of Tussio

Christmas in the heart of a medieval village

When the first lights of Advent shine over the Navelli plateau, the tiny village of Tussio, a hamlet of Prata d'Ansidonia (province of L'Aquila, Abruzzo), becomes the stage for one of the most evocative Christmas events in the L'Aquila hinterland. Christmas in the Village of Tussio is a widespread event: not just a simple market, but an entire town dressed for the holidays, with streets and squares animated by lights, sounds, and festivities.

A town that turns into a Christmas kingdom

Tussio has preserved its medieval appearance almost intact: the highest part of the town, with its oval layout, grew around an ancient castle, following the typical pattern of Lombard-origin villages. Strolling through its alleys during the event means discovering handmade gifts and ancient crafts in every cellar, while the streets fill with stalls offering ornaments, decorations, handmade items, and local delicacies.

Flavors of the L'Aquila plateau

The gastronomic heart of the event lies in the traditional stalls featuring typical local products: truffles, chickpeas, and above all L'Aquila saffron, the red gold of the Navelli plateau. Amidst the warmth and refreshment, visitors can sample local specialties while wandering from one cellar to another.

Music, nativity scenes, and Santa's kingdom

The event is designed for all ages. The Kingdom of Santa Claus is dedicated to the little ones, with creative workshops, letter writing, and games, while the village streets are filled with roving music, shows, nativity scenes, and the traditional notes of bagpipers. A cozy and genuine atmosphere that has made this event a classic, eagerly awaited every year by residents and visitors alike.

A community event

The initiative is organized by the Associazione Il Borgo di Tussio, which has been enlivening the town during the Advent period for several years by involving the entire community. Christmas in the Village of Tussio is today one of the best opportunities to discover the most authentic side of Abruzzo, that of the small towns in the L'Aquila hinterland that rediscover their most intimate and welcoming soul in winter.