There is a small village in the mountains of Abruzzo where the wolf is not considered an enemy, but an integral part of the landscape and collective memory. It is called Aschi, a hamlet of Ortona dei Marsi, in the heart of the Valle del Giovenco, and for a few days now it has officially had a special name: “Town of Wolves”. The decision was approved unanimously by the City Council in one of the most delicate moments for the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park, overwhelmed in recent weeks by the death of almost twenty wolves poisoned with morsels contaminated by pesticides. An episode that sparked controversy, anger and even threats of a tourist boycott against the Abruzzo region. But Aschi chose a different path. Not that of conflict, but that of dialogue and coexistence.
The historical link between Aschi and the wolves of the Giovenco Valley
At over 1,100 meters above sea level, surrounded by mountains and woods, the village has always coexisted with the presence of the wolf. Here the howls are part of the silent nights and it is not uncommon to spot the animals around the town, especially in the evening hours. Mayor Giuseppe Buccella explained that the choice arises from an ancient bond between the population and wildlife.
In a territory marked by depopulation, the wolf almost becomes the symbol of the resistance of those who continue to live among these difficult but deeply loved valleys. The name “Land of Wolves” also aims to draw national attention to a reality often described only through social controversies or ideological clashes. Here, however, the relationship with wild animals is concrete, daily and made of fragile balance.
Coexistence is the watchword
In the mayor’s words, a clear position emerges: the wolf is not perceived as the main problem. The greatest difficulties concern above all wild boars and deer, now present in ever-increasing numbers and responsible for damage to crops, vegetable gardens and local agricultural activities. Those who live in the Valle del Giovenco try to keep traditions and production alive, but have to deal with devastated fields and animals that arrive ever closer to their homes.
Driving on the roads in the valley also requires attention due to the risk of sudden crossings. For this reason the Municipality is asking for a concrete discussion that protects both the fauna and the people who continue to live and work in the area. Protecting nature, they explain from Ortona dei Marsi, cannot mean ignoring the difficulties of mountain communities.
A symbol that looks beyond Abruzzo
The recognition of Aschi as the “Town of Wolves” was also welcomed with enthusiasm by scholars and nature enthusiasts. The village, already known to nature photographers and researchers, thus becomes a national symbol of coexistence between man and wildlife. Not a place where wolves walk between houses, but a territory where men and animals share the same spaces maintaining a respectful balance. And this is perhaps precisely the strongest message that comes from Aschi: coexistence is not simple, but it can exist without turning every fear into a war.
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