Overview
Founded between the 10th and 11th centuries, San Demetrio ne' Vestini was formed by the merger of seven hamlets, now called "villas", probably originating from the settlement of populations coming from the ancient cities of Aveja and Peltuinum.
Already known in the Middle Ages with the name of "Pagus chrementes" and later as Demeter, it assumed its current name in 1736, after the seventeenth-century church, built on the ruins of a temple probably dedicated to the goddess Vesta, was opened for worship in honor of Saint Demetrius, martyr of Thessalonica, who lived in the last part of the third century.
The village, rich in an environmental heritage of distinctive value, is the perfect destination for those seeking an immersive experience in the gifts of Mother Earth. The symbol of this richness is undoubtedly Lake Sinizzo with its emerald-green waters, an ideal destination for spending a unique day in close contact with nature, among the grassy banks and shady weeping willows under which to relax, to be enjoyed alone or in company. By taking a short walk you can easily reach the Acquatina Springs, from which the splendid and clear emerald waters of the lake flow.
The power and creativity of Mother Earth is known and incomparable and in San Demetrio it is evident: the Stiffe Caves show all the wonder of which she can be capable. A relevant example of underground karst, they are invaded by stalactites and stalagmites of extraordinary dimensions, flanked by lakes, rapids and internal waterfalls, for an enchanting show.
But the mountain village is not just nature. We invite you to sharpen your sight and enjoy the artistic-religious beauties of the Church of Santa Maria dei Raccomandati, dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries.
Inside you can find prestigious works of art: on the first and second altar on the right, Purgatory and S. Carlo Borromeo, by Teofilo Patini; on the first and second altar on the left, Conception and 4 Saints and Guardian Angel by the same author; on the main altar an altarpiece, by Domenico Caldara, with Our Lady of the Recommended, Saint Demetrius and an Angel; on the left side of the cross, Visitation, a 1663 canvas by Luca Giordano; on the right side, Nativity, by an unknown seventeenth-century artist; finally, on the left wall, the Madonna dei Raccomandati, a 16th century fresco belonging to the original church.
Under the shade of a willow tree, or seated in the heart of the old village, you cannot fail to experience the local cuisine: taste local cold cuts and cheeses, be delighted by the homemade pasta seasoned with Navelli saffron or savour the L'Aquila mutton.
What else to see:
- the Church of San Demetrio
- the Church of San Giovanni
- the Cappelli Palace in Torano