Italy in Photos

Piazza Sant’Antonio, 86039 Termoli, Italy (September 2018)

Termoli

Situated along the beautiful Adriatic coastline in the Molise region, Termoli is a charming seaside town with a rich history, vibrant culture, and inviting beaches. Known for its stunning medieval old town, Termoli offers a perfect mix of historical exploration and coastal relaxation. Often considered a hidden gem, this small town provides visitors with a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path experience compared to Italy’s more famous tourist destinations. Termoli has deep historical roots, dating back to ancient times. The town was originally a fishing village and became a prominent settlement during the Roman Empire. In the Middle Ages, it played a key role as a fortified town along the Adriatic coast, acting as a defence point against invasions by the Normans, Saracens, and Turks. It’s historic centre, known as the Borgo Antico, is a fascinating place to explore, with narrow winding streets and old stone buildings. At the heart of Termoli’s historical significance is the Castello Svevo, or the Swabian Castle. Built in the 13th century by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, the castle stands proudly on a promontory overlooking the sea. With its robust towers and strategic location, the castle is a prime example of medieval military architecture. The views from the castle provide a sweeping panorama of the coastline and the old town below. Another key historical site is the Cathedral of Santa Maria della Purificazione, located in the Borgo Antico. This beautiful Romanesque cathedral, built in the 12th century, features a façade adorned with intricate carvings and houses the relics of Saint Basso, the patron saint of Termoli.

The medieval charm of Termoli’s Borgo Antico is one of the town’s main attractions. This small, maze-like neighbourhood is perched on a headland, with its brightly coloured houses and narrow cobbled streets offering visitors a step back in time. The old fishing port, located below the Borgo Antico, adds to the picturesque appeal of the area, where local fishermen still cast their nets. Visitors can enjoy walking along the promenade, where the Adriatic Sea meets the ancient walls of the old town. This blend of ancient architecture and coastal beauty creates a unique and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for those looking to experience an authentic Italian seaside town. Termoli is also renowned for its pristine beaches, making it a popular summer destination for both locals and tourists. The town’s main beach, Spiaggia di Sant’Antonio, is a wide, sandy stretch that offers crystal-clear waters and ample space for sunbathing. It’s family-friendly, with plenty of facilities, beachside cafes, and rental services. For those seeking a quieter experience, Spiaggia di Rio Vivo, located south of the old town, is a favourite spot for windsurfing and other water sports. Termoli’s location on the Adriatic coast makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby islands such as the Tremiti Islands, a stunning archipelago known for its marine life and pristine waters. These islands can be reached by boat from Termoli’s port, offering an exciting day trip for nature lovers and scuba diving enthusiasts. Like many Italian towns, Termoli is a paradise for food lovers. The town is known for its seafood, a reflection of its historical ties to fishing. Local specialties include brodetto di pesce, a rich fish stew made with the freshest catch of the day, and spaghetti alla chitarra, a regional pasta dish served with seafood sauces. Visitors can enjoy a meal in one of the many family-run trattorias in the old town, where fresh, local ingredients are the highlight. Another local tradition is the Trabocchi, wooden fishing structures that dot the coastline. Some of these have been converted into restaurants, offering diners a unique opportunity to enjoy a meal while suspended over the sea. Termoli is a coastal gem that offers visitors a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its medieval old town, stunning beaches, and delicious seafood, it’s a destination that captures the essence of Italy’s southern charm. Whether you’re wandering through the ancient streets of the Borgo Antico, relaxing on the beach, or indulging in local cuisine, Termoli provides an authentic and unforgettable Italian experience. For those seeking a quieter, more traditional seaside town, Termoli is the perfect choice, and its warm hospitality makes it a place you’ll want to return to again and again.

Via S. Pietro, 86039 Termoli, Italy (September 2018)

Via San Pietro is a charming and historically rich street located in Termoli, a coastal town on the Adriatic Sea in the Molise region of Italy. Known for its medieval architecture, sandy beaches, and vibrant fishing port, Termoli is a hidden gem in southern Italy that exudes authentic Italian charm without the crowds of more well-known tourist destinations. Via San Pietro embodies the spirit of Termoli, winding its way through the town’s ancient centre, where cobbled streets, pastel-coloured houses, and intimate alleyways evoke a sense of timeless beauty. Located within Termoli’s fortified old town, known as the “Borgo Antico,” Via San Pietro provides a direct connection to the town’s rich heritage and its storied past. The street is named after St. Peter, reflecting Termoli’s deep-rooted connection to Christianity, which has been an integral part of its identity for centuries. The area surrounding Via San Pietro is filled with remnants of ancient civilizations, from Roman and Byzantine influences to Norman and Angevin architectural elements. Walking along this street is like stepping back in time, as the buildings retain their historical character, with archways, narrow passageways, and rustic facades that have endured for generations. Via San Pietro is also a short distance from some of Termoli’s most significant landmarks. One of these is the Termoli Cathedral, or Cattedrale di Santa Maria della Purificazione, a magnificent example of Apulian Romanesque architecture dating back to the 12th century. The cathedral is home to the relics of Saint Basso, the town’s patron saint, whose feast day in August draws locals and visitors alike to celebrate in a lively procession. The cathedral’s ornate façade, intricate stonework, and ancient mosaics make it a must-see destination in Termoli’s old town and a point of pride for the community.

Another nearby landmark is the Castello Svevo, a medieval castle built by Frederick II in the 13th century, which overlooks the Adriatic Sea and has historically served as a defensive fortress. The castle’s imposing walls and towers are a reminder of Termoli’s strategic importance in protecting the coast from invaders throughout history. From the elevated viewpoints around the castle, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the sea and the town’s coastline, which stretches from sandy beaches to rocky promontories. Via San Pietro’s proximity to these attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring Termoli’s cultural and historical sites. Along Via San Pietro, visitors will also find local trattorias, artisan shops, and cozy cafes that offer a taste of Termoli’s culinary heritage. The town is known for its fresh seafood, particularly dishes like brodetto alla termolese, a flavourful fish stew unique to the area, and a variety of pasta dishes featuring locally caught seafood. These establishments on Via San Pietro provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, allowing visitors to experience the genuine hospitality of the Molise region. In essence, Via San Pietro is more than just a street; it is a vital part of Termoli’s historical fabric and local community. From its role as a spiritual centre to its proximity to Termoli’s most iconic landmarks, the street offers a blend of history, culture, and everyday life that captures the essence of this enchanting coastal town.

Photo Gallery of  Walk 1 – Via America to Piazza Sant’Antonio
Approximately 1.60 km – 0.99 miles

The walk starts in Via Madonna delle Grazie – Santuario Madonna delle Grazie – Via Molise – Viale Trieste – Via Abruzzi – Corso Nazionale – Corso Umberto I – Via XX Settembre – Piazza Sant’Antonio

Photo Gallery of  Walk 2 – Piazza Sant’Antonio to Largo Piè di Castello
Approximately 0.81  km – 0.50 miles

The walk starts in Piazza Sant’Antonio – Via Roma – Largo Piè di Castello – Via Federico II di Svevia – Vicolo VI Duomo – Via Duomo – Via Vescovo Pitirro – Piazza Bisceglie – Via S. Pietro – Via Duomo – Via Pustierla – Via Federico II di Svevia – Largo Piè di Castello