Perched on a steep and isolated hill, Casoli dominates the lower valley of the Aventino River. The borgo is in an important strategic position and thanks to the abundance of water, flourishing crops and the farmers’ hard work, it has always been an economic and cultural point of reference in the valley. So much so, it was called the Athens of Abruzzo for the rich cultural ferment seen between the end of 19th century and the beginning of the 20th when Gabriele D’Annunzio and his circle of friends were often guests at the Ducal Castle. In the historic centre, the Church of Santa Reparata, patron saint of Casoli, still maintains its original layout and proportions. During the dominion of the Orsini family, their private chapel inside the castle of Casoli was enlarged and in 1455 became the Parish Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. Adjacent to the church is the mighty and imposing Ducal Castle, its pentagon-shaped tower is part of the original construction, presumably built between the 11th and the 12th century, as a fortified defensive outpost.