The best walks and hikes around Penna Sant'Andrea

Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie – A church awaiting its rebirth Anyone visiting the Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie today will see a church completely encased in scaffolding. However, behind this temporary covering, hard work is underway for the future of one of Teramo's most important religious monuments. The restoration work became necessary due to structural damage the church has sustained over the years, particularly after the severe earthquakes that struck Abruzzo, including the earthquakes of 2016. With extensive repair work and seismic reinforcements (miglioramento sismico), the centuries-old building is not only being restored but also better protected against future earthquakes. The planned reopening is currently scheduled for September 8, 2026. On that day, the sanctuary will be festively reopened with a procession and a special Eucharistic celebration. Tip: Even during the restoration, this place is worth a visit. The historical surroundings, the adjacent monastery, and the centuries-old art treasures clearly show why this sanctuary is so important to Teramo. For prayer and services, the temporary chapel next to the church is currently being used.

Did you know – The bell tower that has defied the earth for centuries Just for the impressive bell tower, a visit to the cathedral is worthwhile. At 50 meters high, it has dominated the skyline of Teramo for centuries. The tower was built in three phases: the robust square base dates from the 12th century, the middle section from the 14th century, and the elegant octagonal spire was added in 1493. Even more impressive is its hidden strength. Thanks to walls over 2.5 meters thick and an increasingly lighter structure towards the top, the tower can move during earthquakes. While the ground shakes, the tower "wobbles" along without losing its stability. That ingenious medieval craftsmanship has ensured that it has withstood numerous severe earthquakes for over five centuries. A beautiful example of how history, architecture, and engineering come together.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is the monumental heart of Teramo and an absolute must-see. This impressive cathedral was built after the destruction of the old cathedral in 1156 and grew over the centuries into a unique interplay of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Inside, be sure to notice the many Roman columns and marble reliefs, originating from the nearby Roman theatre and amphitheatre. A visit to the Duomo is a journey through almost two thousand years of history and one of the highlights of a walk through Teramo.

What can you see today? The Teatro Romano di Teramo is today an impressive archaeological site where the past is gradually being uncovered. From street level, you look three meters down at the ancient arches, the stage, and the orchestra area of this Roman theatre. Excavation and restoration work are in full swing, allowing you to witness a unique piece of living history. In a few years, this monument should once again become the setting for open-air performances and concerts – a visit now lets you experience the restoration up close.

The Roman Theatre of Teramo takes you back to the time of the mighty Roman Interamnia. This impressive theatre from the reign of Emperor Augustus once seated around 3,000 spectators. After the fall of the Roman Empire, parts of the theatre disappeared into the city walls, including the nearby cathedral, and the rest remained hidden underground for centuries. Today, you can admire one of the most important Roman archaeological sites in Abruzzo – a place where almost 2,000 years of history come back to life.

Porta Melatina is one of the best-preserved medieval city gates in Teramo and a must-see for history enthusiasts. This robust stone gate from the 13th or 14th century was once part of the city walls and owes its name to the influential noble family Melatino, who played an important role in medieval Teramo. Together with the nearby Casa dei Melatino, this place still breathes the atmosphere of bygone times. Walk under the centuries-old arch and literally step into the historic city center. A beautiful and authentic piece of medieval Teramo that has surprisingly withstood the test of time. The gate is currently (read June 2026) in need of renovation

The Church of San Luca in Teramo is a charming, minuscule church in the historic center. Although many people immediately associate this name with the gigantic basilica in Bologna, the Teramo version stands out for its extreme modesty and intimate, medieval atmosphere. The building is dedicated to the evangelist Luke. As Saint Luke is traditionally considered the patron saint of artists and painters, this church formerly held special significance for the local art guilds. The building is dedicated to the evangelist Luke. As Saint Luke is traditionally considered the patron saint of artists and painters, this church formerly held special significance for the local art guilds.

Some facts: The Chiesa di Sant'Antonio in Teramo is a church within a church! The building houses an architectural peculiarity. The interior actually consists of two churches: the original, large Church of Saint Francis and a smaller Church of Saint Anthony, housed in the former refectory (dining hall) of the monastery. Magnificent 14th-century portal: Although the church has been extensively rebuilt over the centuries (especially in 1327, 1577, and the early 19th century), the facade stands out with a splendid medieval stone portal. This portal bears great resemblance to the monumental portals of the Cathedral of Atri. A subtle detail is hidden in the stonework on the exterior. Among the decorations of the capitals and portals, tiny, almost invisible birds are carved into the stone.