The best cycling routes around Castiglione Messer Raimondo

Terrazza Belvedere – the most beautiful view of Cellino Attanasio This is the place to pause. From the Terrazza Belvedere, next to the main church and the old fortress tower, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramas in Abruzzo. Thanks to its location at 443 meters above sea level, you overlook an impressive landscape. To the west, the rugged peaks of the Gran Sasso and Maiella dominate. To the east, the hills with olive groves and vineyards roll out towards the shimmering Adriatic Sea. On a clear day, both worlds are visible at the same time. Make it extra special by settling down on the terrace of the nearby Bar Centrale with an espresso or an aperitivo. Here, authentic Italian village life and the impressive nature of Abruzzo come together in a unique way.

The Bell Tower of Santa Maria la Nova – once a medieval defense tower This striking square bell tower was originally not a church tower at all. Its robust base is in fact a 13th-century defense tower that once formed part of the first fortifications of Cellino Attanasio. Only later did the tower acquire a religious function and was converted into the campanile of the adjacent church. Look closely at the sturdy, sloping base: it still betrays its original military function. Above it, you can see the elegant additions from later centuries, such as the decorative arches and the open bell storey in typical Abruzzese style. Fun fact: a memorial plaque has been placed in the outer wall in memory of the inhabitants of Cellino Attanasio who died during the First World War. This makes this tower not only a historical monument but also a place of remembrance.

Bisenti, a charming hilltop village in the Italian region of Abruzzo (province of Teramo), is a destination where history and modern art meet. According to an ancient legend, this is the birthplace of Pontius Pilate, a story that still lives on in the historic center of the village. At the same time, Bisenti has developed into a colorful open-air museum in recent years. Between the narrow streets and historic buildings, you will find impressive street art that gives the village a contemporary and unique look. It is precisely this special combination of ancient traditions and modern art that makes Bisenti a surprising stop during your exploration of Abruzzo.

Visit the alleged birthplace of Pontius Pilate In the heart of the historic center of Bisenti, you'll find a special place: the **Casa di Ponzio Pilato**, which, according to local tradition, is said to be the birthplace of Pontius Pilate. Whether the legend is historically accurate remains a mystery, but that makes a visit all the more interesting. The building has been remodeled several times over the centuries, but still shows characteristics of a classic Roman dwelling. Through a portico, you enter a small courtyard where remains of an ancient pebble pavement are visible. The geometric patterns are reminiscent of the mosaics that once adorned Roman villas. Adjacent is the atrium of the house. Beneath this area are two impressive Roman water reservoirs (cisterns), built in *opus caementicium* and partly finished with waterproof *opus signinum* plaster. These well-preserved remains offer a fascinating glimpse into Roman architecture. Whether you are interested in history, archaeology, or local legends, the Casa di Ponzio Pilato is a unique stop that will make your visit to Bisenti extra special.

Although the Cattedrale di San Massimo (the Duomo of Penne) is currently completely scaffolded for extensive restoration and earthquake-resistant reinforcement works, a visit to this historic site is absolutely worthwhile. Climb the hill and discover the monument's rich history. Even from the outside and in the accessible parts, you can sense the centuries-old atmosphere and get a glimpse into the archaeological treasures and stories this special cathedral has to offer. Some facts: the Duomo was built on pagan foundations. The cathedral stands on the Colle Sacro (the Sacred Hill). The early Christian church was founded even before the year 1000, directly on top of the remains of an old Roman temple. The road to the cathedral via the narrow, steep streets from Porta San Francesco is a historical experience in itself. The Duomo marks the highest point of Penne. Even with scaffolding around the facade, the square in front of the church offers a spectacular panoramic view over the roofs of the Città del Mattone and the surrounding Abruzzese hills.

The Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata (also known as the Chiesa dell'Annunciazione del Signore) in Penne is one of the most striking Baroque monuments in this historic city in the Abruzzo region. Byzantine roots: The current church is located in the Rione da Piedi district and is built on the foundations of a much older, Byzantine or 15th-century church. Baroque reconstruction: The building that stands today was extensively rebuilt in the late Baroque style starting in 1733. The renowned architect Carlo Cremonini was responsible for the construction. Special facade: The imposing brick facade on Corso Alessandrini stands out for its slightly undulating (concave) shape and two levels with stacked brick columns. This gives the building a dynamic, elegant effect. Facts: The Passion Story and Good FridayCenturies-old tradition: Since 1570, this church has been the official starting point of the solemn Good Friday procession in Penne.The golden shroud: The church houses the sacred wooden statue of the deceased Christ. During the Easter period, it is covered with a world-famous black velvet cloth (Covertone), richly decorated with embroidery of real gold and silver thread from a design by Salvatore Colapietro. 2009 Earthquake: The church was unfortunately heavily damaged during the devastating earthquake in the L'Aquila region on April 6, 2009. Since then, the building has been closed for regular religious services for safety reasons and for restoration work.

De Porta San Francesco is the most monumental and iconic city gate of the historic town of Penne, located on four hills. The gate forms the main entrance to the medieval center and is a striking example of local architecture. The gate owes its name to Francis of Assisi, who according to legend visited Penne on September 16, 1216. He came to the city at the time to establish peace between two violent, rival family clans. In memory of this historic visit, the original medieval city gate was later named after him. Although the origin of the gate is medieval, its current baroque appearance dates from 1780 (with later adjustments around 1870). The gate, to be renovated, came from the drawing board of architect Francesco Di Sio and was completely rebuilt, along with the adjacent buildings. Since then, they have formed a monumental, stylish entrance to 'the city of brick'. Bonus: if you stand in front of the gate and look closely, you will see the patron saint of Penne, San Massimo, at the top of the gate.

Viewpoint over Cellino Attanasio – a panorama that leaves you speechless From this viewpoint, the westernmost point of the medieval fortified village, a beautiful panorama unfolds over the rolling hills of Abruzzo. It is the ideal place to catch your breath and enjoy the tranquility. Cellino Attanasio is located on a hilltop at an altitude of 443 meters, between the Vomano and Piomba rivers. In clear weather, the view ranges from the Adriatic Sea to the imposing peaks of the Gran Sasso. A perfect stop for a photo and to realize why this authentic village has had such a strategic location for centuries.