Civitella Messer Raimondo Christmas Market

Christmas in the Maiella village

The Civitella Messer Raimondo Christmas Market is the winter highlight that brings the historic center of this small town in the Province of Chieti, Abruzzo, to life every December. Resting at the foot of the Maiella within the National Park, the village puts on its most charming attire for the holidays: wooden stalls, fairy lights winding through stone alleys, a glowing tree in the square, and the aroma of mulled wine accompanying a stroll among the vendors.

A Christmas village of crafts and flavors

The heart of the event is the Christmas village set up in the historic center, featuring stands dedicated to local craftsmanship, decorations, and traditional products of the region. Among the local specialties, the famous almond cake—an ancient recipe guarded by the village—is a must-try, alongside the flavors of mountain Abruzzese cuisine. The event is part of the Borghi Ospitali tradition, a network that promotes the hospitality of the small towns of the Maiella.

The festive program

Alongside the market, the town's Christmas calendar offers several community moments:

• the lighting of the Christmas tree in the square;
• the setup of the Christmas village with wooden stalls;
• the presentation of the Patriota della Maiella Award, a recognition tied to the local identity;
• activities dedicated to families and children, with traditional sweets and mulled wine.

A village to discover

Civitella Messer Raimondo preserves a heritage that extends far beyond the holidays: the Church of SS. Salvatore with its historic organ, the medieval-era Palazzo dei Conti Baglioni, and a territory rich in prehistoric and Roman evidence. Visiting the Christmas Market is therefore an opportunity to experience not only the festive atmosphere but also the history and nature of one of the most authentic corners of the Abruzzese Maiella.