Pescocostanzo Christmas Markets

Christmas in one of Abruzzo's most beautiful villages

Every December, Pescocostanzo, a jewel of the Apennines in the province of L'Aquila, dresses up for its Christmas Markets. Perched on the Altipiani Maggiori d'Abruzzo at an altitude of about 1,395 meters, the village is one of the most famous in the region: its stone-paved streets, artisan workshops, and Renaissance palaces provide the perfect backdrop for the holiday atmosphere, often made even more evocative by the snow.

Stalls, crafts, and local products

The stalls are set up in the historic center and around Piazza Municipio, the heart of the village. Here, visitors can find the most authentic expressions of local craftsmanship, for which Pescocostanzo has been famous for centuries:

• bobbin lace, handmade by the women of the village;
• wrought iron and carved wood creations;
• artistic jewelry, featuring the famous Presentosa, a star-shaped gold filigree pendant;
• typical mountain products: cheeses, cured meats, holiday sweets, and traditional Abruzzese specialties.

Lights, nativity scenes, and atmosphere

During the market days, the village streets are illuminated with festive lights and filled with nativity scenes and themed decorations, with the majestic Basilica of Santa Maria del Colle serving as a spiritual backdrop. It is the perfect opportunity to stroll through the workshops, sip some mulled wine, and experience the warmth of the holidays in a mountain village that feels suspended in time.

Arriving by historic train

During the Christmas season, Pescocostanzo is one of the destinations of the Ferrovia dei Parchi, the historic Transiberiana d'Italia: the Rivisondoli-Pescocostanzo station, one of the highest in Italy, is a stop on the historic train that connects Sulmona to the snow-covered villages of the Alto Sangro, making the journey to the markets an experience in itself.

An event by the Municipality of Pescocostanzo

The Christmas Markets are part of the events promoted by the Municipality of Pescocostanzo in the winter holiday calendar, an appointment loved by residents and tourists who choose the Abruzzo mountains every year to experience Christmas amidst tradition, craftsmanship, and snowy landscapes.