Overview
Palena is a small town of early medieval origin. It is dominated from above by the stronghold of the 11th century ducal castle, while the small Aventine Theatre is found in the heart of the town. It preserves characteristic views, arches and portals and, as you climb Mount Porrara, you can enjoy a beautiful panorama; at an altitude of 1272 m, you'll find the hermitage of the Madonna dell'Altare.
In Palena, you should not miss a visit to the Marsican Brown Bear Wildlife Area, where, with a bit of luck, you can observe three bears in semi-freedom. To find out about their appearance, habits and curiosities, you can make a visit to the Marsican bear museum run by the Majella National Park. Completing the cultural offer is the Alto Aventino Geopaleontological Museum, at the castle, with an important collection of fossils and connected with the geo-site at the source of the river Aventino. Palena is also known as the town of orchids: as many as 64 species are reported in the municipality.
