La Contea Gentile - Welcome Home

A slice of Middle-earth in Abruzzo

La Contea Gentile is the fantasy village conceived by Nicolas Gentile in Bucchianico, in the province of Chieti, in the heart of Abruzzo. Born in 2018 from a passion for J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the project has transformed a plot of land in the Porcareccia district into a small Shire, complete with hobbit-holes carved into the hillside, dwarven caravans, and enchanted woods. Every year, the village opens its gates for Welcome Home, the grand festival that brings together thousands of fantasy fans.

Themed areas

During the event, the village is divided into various areas inspired by the peoples of Middle-earth: the Elven zone, the Gondorian zone, and the Dwarven zone, each with its own unique atmosphere. Along the paths, you will encounter hobbits, elves, dwarves, Riders of Rohan, wizards, and even Nazgûl, in a continuous succession of costumed scenes that immerse the visitor in the Tolkien universe.

Activities and experiences

• Fantasy-themed cosplay competitions with daily awards;
• Role-playing games and dozens of themed board games, with dedicated gaming areas open all day;
• Ancient games, demonstrations of traditional crafts and artistry;
• Horseback riding sessions and entertainment for families and children;
• Conferences dedicated to fantasy literature and Tolkien's work;
• The Middle-earth Market with stalls featuring artisans and creators.

Fine food and atmosphere

Conviviality is a fundamental part of the Shire: food stalls offering vegetarian and vegan options, the Green Dragon Pub, beer, mead, and spiced wine accompany the festive days, amidst music, dancing, and performances. Nicolas Gentile likes to remind us that the people of Abruzzo are a bit like hobbits—a people connected to the land, natural rhythms, celebrations, and good food; it is from this affinity that the spirit of the event is born.

A world-renowned project

La Contea Gentile has gained international resonance, receiving praise from actors such as Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, and Billy Boyd, who played the hobbits in the film trilogy. Its story has even been told in a documentary. Welcome Home is now one of the most original fantasy events in the Municipality of Bucchianico and the entire Abruzzo region, capable of attracting visitors from all over Italy.