Tavole dei Briganti: Hiking to the Brigand Tables in Abruzzo’s Majella Mountains

Discovering Tavole dei Briganti

Tavole dei Briganti sits in the rugged terrain of the Majella National Park in Abruzzo, a collection of stone slabs etched with names, dates, and messages by 19th-century brigands who used the area as a hideout. These natural rock tables, smoothed by time and weather, offer a tangible link to the region’s outlaw past amid dramatic limestone formations and dense beech forests.

Historical Context

The site gained its name from brigands active during the unification of Italy, who left inscriptions as markers or warnings. The carvings remain visible on flat outcrops, surrounded by panoramic views that once provided strategic vantage points. Visitors today find a quiet, evocative spot that highlights Abruzzo’s layered history beyond its better-known monasteries and ski resorts.

How to Reach Tavole dei Briganti

Access begins from trailheads near Lama dei Peligni or Fara San Martino. The hike follows marked paths through the park, climbing steadily over rocky ground for roughly two hours each way. No roads lead directly to the tables, preserving the remote character of the location. Park at designated lots in the valley and follow CAI trail signs; GPS coordinates help confirm the final approach.

What to See and Do

Explore the main carved slabs, which bear legible names and symbols. Combine the visit with a longer loop that includes nearby caves and viewpoints over the Orta River valley. Birdwatching opportunities abound, with golden eagles often soaring overhead. Photographers prize the golden-hour light on the limestone surfaces.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early autumn offers the most reliable conditions, with wildflowers in May and June and milder temperatures. Avoid winter when snow can block trails, and steer clear of peak summer afternoons when heat and sun exposure intensify on open rock.

Nearby Attractions

• The hermitage of San Giovanni in the same valley
• The ancient village of Lama dei Peligni with its archaeological museum
• Waterfalls and gorges of the Fara San Martino canyon

These sites pair naturally with a full-day excursion into the Majella foothills.