Notte Nera – Abruzzo Capetempe Festival

The Notte Nera of Castel di Ieri

The Notte Nera – Abruzzo Capetempe Festival is one of the most evocative autumn events in the municipality of Castel di Ieri, a small medieval village in the province of L'Aquila perched on the slopes of Monte Urano, within the Sirente-Velino Regional Natural Park. Every year, around November 1st, the town transforms into an enchanting trail through alleys, cellars, and the medieval Tower, attracting visitors from all over Abruzzo.

Capetièmpe, an ancient tradition

The festival takes its name from Capetièmpe (or Capetiemp), an ancient Abruzzese rural tradition marking the transition between the end of the agricultural year and the start of a new cycle. It is a tradition rooted in ancestral rites linked to the memory of the deceased and the change of seasons, in many ways similar to the Celtic Samhain from which modern Halloween also derives. Notte Nera reinterprets this folk heritage in a contemporary key, blending memory, nature, and mystery.

A village opening its doors

During the event, the historic center comes alive with widespread activities: the village cellars open their doors to artisans and local producers, the medieval Tower becomes the heart of guided visits and immersive 3D experiences, while the town streets host guided tours and performances. The gastronomic offerings highlight local products, including wood-fired pizza, chestnuts, pumpkin soup, porchetta sandwiches, legumes, and mulled wine, paired with wines from Abruzzo's wineries.

Nature, entertainment, and the starry sky

The typical program of Notte Nera weaves together different themes: nature walks to discover autumn colors, themed tours through the alleys, puppet shows and jugglers for children, astronomical observation from the medieval Tower led by amateur astronomers, and, to close the day, live concerts and DJ sets that keep the village dancing until late. It is an event designed for the whole family, capable of bridging folk tradition and entertainment.

Organization

Notte Nera is promoted and organized by the Pro Loco La Torre of Castel di Ieri, with the patronage of the Municipality, and today represents one of the defining events in the autumn calendar of this Abruzzese village.