Capannelle Pass

The Capannelle Pass is a mountain pass in Italy. It sits at an altitude of 1300 meters above sea level in the Province of L'Aquila in Italy's Abruzzo Region. It is located on the Italian State Highway 80 which passes near the Gran Sasso in the Apennines. This famous pass probably takes its name from the small pastoral huts ("capannelle") which dot the landscape. They were used in times past by the local shepherds during the transumanza for protection from the elements, especially the rain and snow showers which can unexpectedly arise in the area. The Capannelle Pass is an important transportation point linking the Province of Teramo with the Province of L'Aquila. The area is well known for hosting the Grand Highway of the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, a touristic byway running through the heart of the national park between Montorio al Vomano ad Amiternum.