The best running trails around Montefino

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.

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.

The round church of San Nicola was built in the 19th century to a design by engineer Dottorelli. From the outside, its unusual shape is immediately striking: a cylindrical building that, interrupted by pilasters, rises above the lower annexes of the church. On the side of Corso Alessandrini, the church has a simple brick facade, adorned with a small aedicule and a triangular tympanum. On the side of Largo San Francesco, the bell tower particularly catches the eye, with its double arched opening and tympanum-shaped crowning. Together, these elements give the church a restrained yet characteristic appearance.

The façade dates back to the renovation in 1955 after the war damage of the Second World War.

Penne is a charming medieval village perched on a hill, characterized by picturesque streets and a rich historical and artistic heritage. https://www.abruzzocitta.it/comune/penne/

the Porta di San Francesco is built entirely of bricks, in the niche placed on its top there is the representation of the Patron Saint of the city (San Massimo). On the portal there is a plaque commemorating the visit of San Francesco to Penne in 1216. Looking frontally at the Porta di San Francesco, it is possible to see a fifteenth-century tower on the left and the church of San Nicola on the right.

Panoramic view of the mountain range of the Gran Sasso d'Italia, from here it is possible to spot Monte San Vito.