Taranta Peligna

Taranta Peligna is a comune and town in the Province of Chieti in the Abruzzo region of Italy. It is 57 kilometres (35 mi) from Chieti, and it has a population of 521. Located in the Aventino Valley, at the foot of the Maiella, in the past it was famous for its industry of woolen cloth called "taranta", a still thriving activity. The territory, which covers 21.65 square kilometres (8.36 sq mi), is in a predominantly upland area rich with caves, such as the cave of Bue, Asino, and Cavallone or Figlia di Iorio. The first historical mention goes back to the 15th century. In the 13th century the commune was fiefdom of Bernard from Acciano and of Henry from Portella, and later was a property of the Caldora and t Malvezzi, a noble family of Bologna. In the 17th century Taranta Pelign passed under the d’Aquino family that kept it until the end of the feudality. Taranta Peligna has several monuments, such as the façade of the St. Nicola church, the portal of the 16th century of St. Biagio church and the crucifix on wooden board by Antoniazzo from Romano in the Trinity church. Outside the built up area, on the way to Lettopalena, a small street to the right leads to the sources of running waters; they are spring pools coming out from the earth, creating a spectacular environment. See also Grotta del Cavallone References