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Departing from Ovindoli introduces you immediately into a wide, light-filled, easily-recognisable mountain environment, where the village retains a natural vocation for hospitality and movement. It is a starting point that works well for pilgrims who prefer a readable route with obvious landmarks, and a landscape that keeps them company without ever being monotonous. On this stage, what is most noticeable is the stratification of the territory, moving from Roman remains to medieval fortifications until you reach a town like Celano, where the story becomes more urbanised, with historic buildings and monuments. Along the way, you will encounter the ruins of the Castle of St Potitus. This spartan and strongly identity-defining presence reinforces the medieval aspect of the hamlet and is the first example of a ruined fortification you will see on the route. A little further on, the Roman imperial villa, also of St Potitus, goes even deeper in time. Archaeological excavations have brought to light a large villa, built around the 1st century AD. Its mosaic floors are a valuable testimony to the Roman presence in this area, although the site is not open to visitors today. The medieval tower, the watchtower of St Iona, adds depth to this interpretation of the landscape as it accentuates the dialogue between heights, visual control and historical settlements.
As you descend towards Celano, the landscape gradually changes and the trail takes on a more intimate and symbolic dimension. The Springs of the Martyr Saints, near Fontegrande, preserve a deep connection with local devotion and the town's religious memory, while the Church of Our Lady of Grace (also known as St John of the Water Source) closes this stage with a presence of great historical and spiritual importance. Built in the 11th century, it was the only church spared by Frederick II in the fire of 1223.
