What are trabocchi (or trabucchi), and where does their name come from?

Trabocchi, or trabucchi, stand as a testament to the past, preserving traditions and the legacy of an ancient seafaring civilisation. These stilted fishing structures can be found along the coast of Abruzzo, overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

Let’s explore the origins of their name, where they are located, and what exactly trabocchi are.

What are trabocchi?

Trabocchi are wooden structures traditionally used by fishermen to catch fish without the need for boats or venturing out to sea, thus avoiding the risks associated with navigation. They resemble stilted platforms extending from the coast towards the sea, supported by two or more arms and small bridges, known as antennae, to which a tightly woven fishing net, called a trabocchetto, was attached.

A system of winches enabled the net to be lowered into the water and then pulled up with the catch. Essentially, trabocchi allowed fishermen to cast their nets far from the shore without sailing, and in some cases, they even served as living spaces.

Trabocchi are, in effect, fishing machines. Traditionally, they were constructed from Aleppo pine, a type of wood that was abundant in the region and valued for its durability.

What is the origin of the name trabocchi and when did they first appear?

The name trabocco comes from the Latin word trabs, meaning beam or wood, the material traditionally used to construct these structures.

Historically, the earliest records confirming the presence of trabocchi in Abruzzo date back to the 15th century. They are mentioned in a religious text recounting the life of Pietro da Morrone, the renowned Pope Celestine V. However, their origins are believed to be far older, possibly dating as far back as the Phoenician era.

Gabriele D’Annunzio famously described the trabocchi in his novel The Triumph of Death, and today, they have become a symbol of Abruzzo.

Where are the trabocchi located?

These structures are found along the Adriatic Sea and are a distinctive feature of the Abruzzo coastline. In particular, most trabocchi are concentrated in the province of Chieti, along the stretch known as the Costa dei Trabocchi, which extends for approximately 60 kilometres from Ortona to San Salvo.

Trabocchi can also be found in the Pescara area and beyond the region, in places such as Molise and Puglia.

Today, these unique and atmospheric constructions have been repurposed and transformed into charming seaside restaurants and venues, where guests can enjoy fresh fish while overlooking the sea.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini

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Curiosities

Parks and Nature

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