7Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Abruzzo
Perched high in the Gran Sasso mountains, Santo Stefano di Sessanio is one of Italy’s most beautifully restored medieval villages.
Stone houses, narrow alleyways, and ancient watchtowers create an atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. Strict restoration efforts have preserved the village’s original character, making it a remarkable example of sustainable tourism.
Surrounded by the vast plains and peaks of the Gran Sasso National Park, it serves as an ideal base for hiking and nature exploration.
