Lately, Abruzzo has been getting a lot of attention from those seeking off-the-beaten-path Italian destinations. Apart from its natural beauty and uncrowded medieval villages, the region also has an impressive list of cultural heritage sites that attract curious minds and art lovers. Here is my pick of some fascinating sites, which have withstood sieges, wars, earthquakes, and neglect over the centuries and will give you a glimpse of Abruzzo’s rich history and culture.

The modern-day territory of Abruzzo used to be home to many Italic tribes, Vestini people among them. The first mention of Vestini dates back to the 4^th century BC when they joined the fight against the Roman rule. Numerous artifacts from the burial grounds —  which were typical for the ancient Vestini tribe — are shown in The National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo - Villa Frigerj in Chieti: fragments of funerary statues, weapons, buckles, ice crampons, and bronze tableware.