The best cycling routes around Penne

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.

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 building, indicated by popular belief as the "house of Pontius Pilate", has inside a well connecting to a qanat, that is, an underground hydraulic system, with characteristics completely analogous to a water supply system that brings water from a spring from Etam to Jerusalem. Therefore, if we want to identify a historical basis for the legend, we can hypothesize that, after his dismissal, having returned to his Bisenti, Pontius Pilate, waiting to receive instructions from the Roman authorities regarding his future, still politically influential and "connected", before being sent into exile, had time to build an aqueduct very similar to the water infrastructure that a few years before he had built in Jerusalem, making sure that the main tunnel, before reaching the supply source in a public fountain, passed through his "domus" so as to draw water directly from the house. Source QR code signage in front of the entrance to the house.

Arsita is located on a hill overlooking the Fino River. Arsita was once called Bacucco, of which we still have the ruins of the Castle. https://www.gransassolagapark.it/paesi_dettaglio.php?id=67003

It is located at the intersection of Colle del Duomo and Colle Castello, the two main hills on which the old city developed.

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

The Reserve is an important resting and breeding place for sedentary, migrating and nesting avifauna.