About 10 kms up a very steep mountain is the sleepy medieval village of Pacentra.  Pale limestone paths, worn shiny over hundreds of years.  Lots of narrow winding streets and many many steps.  At the top of the hill is the remains of the castle.  From here you get a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains, the valley below and in the distance the equally beautiful village of Sulmona.  The air is crisp and clear.  It is quiet and peaceful.  There are no tourist traps.  No McDonalds, Starbucks or of the other fast food joints.  Old ladies sit on their front steps calling across the road to their friends.  Men sit outside the coffee shops, cafes or barber shops and chat.  

Pacentra in Abruzzo