About Scontrone
 Scontrone is two towns in one: The ancient dwelling is nestled 1038m (3406ft) high on a windswept hilltop, while in more recent years, inhabitants have spread into the valley below, along the lush banks of the Sangro River and formed a small community known as Villa Scontrone. Rich with natural beauty, environmental integrity and ancient city planning, one can get lost in Scontrone’s winding alleys, cluttered with ancient murals and hidden sculptures.
Location
 The town is adjacent to the thick forests and flowering meadows of the Abruzzo Wildlife Park and is a mere twenty minutes car ride from some of the best skiing in Italy at the famous ski slopes of Roccaraso and Rivisondoli. The Sangro River offers stream fishing, while the surrounding peaks are a natural destination for walking, trekking, mountain biking, camping and horseback riding.
Paleontological Center
 Scontrone's land boasts a fossil deposit dating back to the Miocene Epoch, where paleontologists found fragments of reptiles like crocodiles, tortoises and a variety of mammals; the most curious being a strange fawn with five horns, named Hoplitomeryx. All are now housed in Scontrone’s new Paleontology Center.
Scontrone was founded by the Samnite tribe, rugged mountain dwellers who were the last to hold out against conquest by the Roman Empire. They used the isolated hilltop as a strategic outpost during Roman invasions, a place for the people of the valleys below to seek protection during attacks. Today Scontrone’s position could still be described as strategic, in its proximity to a bounty of Italy’s hidden gems.
Origin of the Name "Scontrone"
The origins of the name "Scontrone" remained a mystery for many years, but was recently clarified by the Institute of Linguistics at the University of Chieti. "Scontrone" in Italian literally means "big clash" or "confrontation". Therefore, it was long believed that the name derived from a big battle that ensued there as many had throughout its early history. Scholars at the University found that the name actually has germanic origins, most likely from Lombards who invaded the country during the Roman reign, in the medieval era. These Lombards praciticed the local religion which worshipped Saint Angelo or Guinterio in old German. Guinterio was commonly referred to as Squinterio. The added "S" in the beginning, meaning "owner of the land", contracted with Guinterio to form Squinterio. The land, therefore, was referred to as Squinteriano, which meant "Land of Saint Angelo". This later transformed into Squintrione and finally Scontrone.
Key Points in History that Shaped the Scontrone of Today
It was recorded in 1820 that Alfedena and Scontrone had a total of 2,088 inhabitants. In the central area there were about a thousand people. (Today Scontrone and Villa Scontrone combined have around 300 inhabitants.) After the unification of Italy the area realized the fruits of the terrain and Scontrone really prospered. During the First World War many young men from Scontrone died at Corso and Adamello. But the real tragedy occurred during the Second World War. The German defensive line called “Gustav” coincided with the Sangro River and the terrified population had to find shelter in Marsica and in other Abruzzi locations.
After World War II there was much work done to reconstruct the town. Even though there was a large migration of inhabitants to Canada and The United States of America where they were much appreciated for their hard work and decency. Today the citizens of Scontrone are discovering the benefits of tourism.
Unique Cuisine
 Scontrone’s unique cuisine is defined by simple but succulent combinations of fresh local ingredients whispered through the generations, and is unlike anywhere else in Italy. The polenta "alla Tavrella" is Scontrone's traditional meal. Other popular Scontrone dishes include: pasta and beans with homemade made lasagna, intensely spiced sausages, lamb and goat cheese, traditional sweets for special occasions - everything honeyed with the perfumes of tradition.
Summer Fun
During the summer the Scontrone area is visited by the Street Arts Festival. This festival features musicians, jugglers, and theme experimental theater. It is organized together with a market place for the area's outstanding and unique cuisine, and the incomparable products manufactured by our local craftsmen.
Welcome Seniors
The elderly have a good life in our enchanting little village. They can leave their homes to enjoy peaceful walks and find good neighbors to talk to. In addition, the city administration makes available spas where the elderly can meet and partake in heat treatments which are designed for the individual's needs. The older people are so enthused about the spa that they come with their suit cases to spend a pleasant and healthful day.
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