Romantic Night in the Most Beautiful Villages of Italy

A night dedicated to love on the Terrace of Abruzzo

The Romantic Night in the Most Beautiful Villages of Italy is a national event promoted by the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of Italy, which lights up over two hundred villages from the north to the south of the peninsula on the night closest to the summer solstice. Among these is Guardiagrele, an elegant town in the province of Chieti nestled at the foot of the Majella, known as the Terrace of Abruzzo for its panoramic views stretching from the mountains to the Adriatic Sea.

The historic center transforms

For one evening, the historic center of Guardiagrele transforms into an intimate and evocative setting: the village streets, dominated by the bulk of the Duomo di Santa Maria Maggiore and the ancient workshops of wrought-iron artisans and goldsmiths, are illuminated by soft lights. Candlelit strolls, live music, serenades, street performances, and art installations provide the backdrop for an evening designed for couples but open to everyone, including families.

Abruzzese taste and tradition

One of the most anticipated moments is the Aperitif of Love, with wine and sweets offered in participating local venues. The village restaurateurs prepare themed menus that highlight local products, from famous Guardiagrele pastries like sise delle monache and bocconotto to the specialties of Majella cuisine. The evening shares with all Italian villages the symbolic midnight kiss and a collective toast that ideally unites the entire network of the Most Beautiful Villages of Italy.

A national event, a local soul

Born in 2016, the Romantic Night has grown to become one of the association's most defining summer events. In Abruzzo, the initiative involves about fifteen municipalities each year, and Guardiagrele is one of the historic protagonists of the Chieti province. The event combines tourism promotion with the enhancement of popular traditions, artistic craftsmanship, and local food and wine, offering residents and visitors a chance to rediscover the authentic charm of one of the most beautiful villages in Abruzzo.

Why attend

• Stroll through the illuminated historic center of Guardiagrele at the foot of the Majella
• Enjoy the Aperitif of Love and themed menus at local restaurants
• Experience the romantic atmosphere of live music, serenades, and street performances
• Share the midnight kiss with over two hundred Italian villages