The best cycling routes around Penna Sant'Andrea

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.

De Casa del Mutilato is a hidden gem where over six centuries of history come together. Once built as the Chiesa della Misericordia during the plague epidemic of 1348, this building later grew into a meeting place for World War I veterans. Be sure to check out the beautiful Gothic entrance gate: above the door, you'll discover a rare 15th-century fresco of the Madonna and Child. A special stop where the history of Teramo is palpable in every stone.

The Statua di Sor Paolo Proconsole is undoubtedly the most peculiar monument in Teramo. This ancient Roman statue, embedded in a facade on Largo Proconsole, is known as the 'voice of the people'. For centuries, residents placed anonymous notes with criticism, mockery, and humor in Sor Paolo's open hand, so that everyone could read his "message" the next morning. A kind of medieval social network, long before social media existed. Take a good look at the statue too: the Roman body and the much younger head form a striking combination that gives Sor Paolo his unique appearance. A nice and surprising stop during your 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.

Among the most beautiful villages in Italy, Castelli is famous for its ceramics craftsmanship. The view of the Gran Sasso and the visit to the ceramic workshops are worth the stop in this place.

This jewel is located near Isola del Gran Sasso, observed from the peaks of Gran Sasso. The church was built between the 11th and 13th centuries. To visit it, ask at the bar below and have luck…