Santa Maria d'Arabona Festival

A festival in the heart of Cistercian Abruzzo

The Santa Maria d'Arabona Festival is the traditional event that brings the village of the same name in Manoppello, in the Province of Pescara, Abruzzo, to life every summer. The festival revolves around the Assumption of Mary, which falls in mid-August, and finds its ideal setting in the imposing Abbey of Santa Maria d'Arabona, one of the most significant Cistercian monuments in the region.

The abbey, the heart of the festival

The abbey is located in the Arabona area, in Manoppello Scalo, and traces its roots back to the end of the 12th century: its foundation is linked to a donation in 1197, with construction work starting around 1208 according to the rigorous architectural principles of the Cistercian monks. The building, which remained partially unfinished at the choir and transept level, still preserves elements of great value today: a refined stone tabernacle with floral reliefs, a monumental Easter candelabrum about six meters high, and frescoes attributed to the Abruzzese painter Antonio da Atri. Celebrating the festival in this context means rediscovering a heritage that intertwines faith, history, and art.

What to expect

During the days of the festival, the community gathers to experience a moment that unites the spiritual and the convivial. The program typically includes:

• Religious ceremonies in honor of the Assumption, with celebrations and moments of popular devotion;
• Food stalls featuring local Abruzzese specialties;
• Live music and evening entertainment for families and visitors of all ages.

Part of the "Manoppello under the Stars" program

The Santa Maria d'Arabona festival is one of the traditional events included every year in the rich summer program "Manoppello under the Stars", promoted by the Municipality of Manoppello in collaboration with local associations, including the APS Santa Maria Arabona. From June to September, the program guides residents and visitors through the historic center, the Scalo area, and the surrounding districts with concerts, shows, sporting events, and the religious festivities that mark local tradition. In this context, the Arabona festival represents one of the most cherished moments of the Manoppello summer.