L'Aquila-Capitignano cycling event to follow historic railway route

A cycling tourism event is scheduled for Saturday, August 29, following the historic route of the decommissioned L'Aquila-Capitignano railway. Organized by CsaIn Abruzzo as part of the Perdonanza Celestiniana program, the approximately 40-kilometer route traverses the Alta Valle dell'Aterno.

The ride begins at 10:00 AM from the 16th-century castle in L'Aquila. Participants can use E-bikes, mountain bikes, or gravel bikes. The itinerary includes urban sections of L'Aquila, followed by the old railway track with stops at Barete for a mill visit and local tastings, and Montereale to visit the former station. The route concludes at the former terminus station in Capitignano.

The original railway line was inaugurated in 1920 and saw passenger service end in 1933, with freight service ceasing in 1935. The registration fee is 30 euros, with a reduced rate of 20 euros available until August 26. The fee covers a race pack, lunch upon arrival, shower facilities, and return transportation to L'Aquila.