Crecchio is located in that part of Abruzzo that descends from the Maiella massif towards the Adriatic, in a landscape of rolling hills covered with vineyards, olive and fruit trees. Its origins date back to the 7th century, when inhabitants of the coast settled there, fleeing the war between Goths and Byzantines. In 1973, a Roman-Byzantine villa was discovered in the area and artefacts were brought to light documenting the war and the local lifestyle. They are now on display in the Museum of Byzantine and Early Medieval Abruzzo housed in the castle. The imposing Ducal Castle dates back to the 11th century: it is a square structure with four angular towers surrounded by walls that also enclose a garden. The Normans built the Olive Tower, the highest of the four, at the beginning of the 12th century; it was part of a series of lookouts from the sea to the mountains. There are religious and civil buildings worthy of note too, such as the late 16th century Church of Santa Maria da Piedi, the Baroque Church of the Santissimo Salvatore, the 13th century bridge, the original 14th century Palazzo Monaco and the Porta da Piedi gate, the only one remaining. The recently renovated main square, at the foot of the Castle walls, is also a panoramic terrace overlooking the surrounding hills and the setting for the borgo’s events.