Abruzzi - Gran Sasso d'Italia

Between the Gran Sasso d'Italia group lie the central uplands of the Abruzzi, in which the longitudinal valley of the Aterno, the high valleys of L'Aquila and Sulmona and the wide and fertile Fucino basin form substantial indentations. The northeastern part, beyond the Gran Sasso massif, which is occupied by an upland region traversed by numerous rivers, slopes down gradually towards the Adriatic. Along the coast are many fine seaside resorts.

Population

The population is concentrated in the towns of the region - L'Aquila, Chieti, Lanciano, Vasto, Teramo, Pescara, Sulmona and Avezzano. The rest is only thinly populated. Agriculture

With the exception of few areas, especially in the south and in the lower regions, the largest part of the Abruzzi is sparsely wooded, has partly karstic areas, a harsh climate, an abundance of snow and an infertile soil. Arable farming is possible only in the valleys and depressions, particularly in the Fucino basin; the mountain regions are good only for grazing land.

Winter sports

Supplementary to agriculture the development of tourism is of great importance. Particularly in the Gran Sasso, which has been equipped with facilities for winter sports (cableway to Campo Imperatore; 2,130m/7,029ft).