The best walks and hikes around Basciano

Fun fact about the historical bollards: The characteristic stone posts found in various places in Teramo once had an important function. They protected the facades of churches and palaces from the wooden wheels of horse-drawn carts, which could easily hit the walls in the narrow streets. The distinctive notch around the stone ball served to hold heavy iron chains in place. These could be used to easily close off squares, alleys, or important buildings from carts and other traffic. Today, these posts are no longer needed, but they still form a charming detail in the historic streetscape and are a reminder of daily life in Teramo centuries ago.

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.

The power of freedom in bronze This impressive bronze statue is a tribute to the Resistenza, the Italian resistance against fascism and German occupation during World War II. The monument commemorates the citizens and partisans from Teramo and Abruzzo who gave their lives for freedom. The dynamic figure of a young resistance fighter shows the moment he resolutely raises the flag of freedom. The powerful posture and movement of the statue symbolize courage, hope, and the struggle for a better future. The monument is a work by the renowned Italian sculptor Augusto Murer, known for his expressive sculptures that focus on human strength and emotion.

Garibaldi at the Porta Reale – Where history makes an Italian statement! On Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi stands the hero of Italian unification in a location that was anything but randomly chosen. His statue overlooks the Porta Reale, for centuries the main gateway to Teramo. With his drawn sabre, Garibaldi appears to be entering the city, a symbolic reference to his role in the unification of Italy in 1860. The location also holds special historical significance. The gate was originally built to ceremoniously welcome King Ferdinand I of Bourbon, but it was precisely Garibaldi who put an end to Bourbon rule in Southern Italy. By placing his statue next to this former royal gate, Teramo sent a powerful historical message: where the Bourbon kings were once honored, now stands the man who united Italy. It is a subtle yet eloquent reminder of a turning point in Italian history. Tip: Walk through the Porta Reale and view the statue from within the gate. This way, you'll see exactly how Garibaldi symbolically appears to be entering the city – a great photo opportunity and a fascinating piece of Italian history.

Biblioteca Melchiorre Dèlfico – Teramo's hidden treasure 📚 Behind the sober facade of Palazzo Dèlfico lies one of Teramo's most beautiful hidden gems. The Biblioteca Regionale Melchiorre Dèlfico is much more than a library: it is an impressive historic palace where tranquility, art, and ancient knowledge come together. Since the 19th century, this special place has been accessible to everyone, thanks to the visionary philosopher Melchiorre Dèlfico, who donated his precious book collection on the condition that ordinary citizens could also use it freely. Today, the library holds more than 300,000 works, including rare manuscripts, historical maps, and valuable old prints. The real highlight awaits at the top of the monumental marble staircase. Here you will find elegant halls with towering wooden bookcases and magnificent ceiling frescoes, including the impressive Il Trionfo dell'Aurora. An oasis of silence and beauty, hidden in the heart of the historic city center. Tip: Feel free to step inside. Precisely because this library is still fully in use, it remains undiscovered by many visitors. A short detour rewards you with one of Teramo's most impressive interiors.

During your city walk through Teramo, stop by the Biblioteca Regionale Melchiorre Dèlfico at Via M. Dèlfico 16. This is by far the best-preserved secret gem of the city! Although the exterior looks understated, inside you'll discover a palatial setting. Climb the impressive marble staircase to the first floor and admire the spectacular ceiling frescoes, including the masterpiece 'Il Trionfo dell'Aurora'. You'll walk among towering, antique wooden bookshelves that protect over 300,000 historical works. Tip for hikers: It is an active study space, so serene silence prevails inside. Admission is free. Perfect to combine with a coffee break under the nearby Portici!

Dreaming in color – Surrealist street art by MACS & Made514 🎨 This striking mural transports you to a dreamy world full of fantasy and humor. Centrally, a smiling man sits curled up in an open wooden drawer balanced on high legs. Sheep float around his head – a playful nod to the famous "counting sheep" – while a golden fish drifts through a mysterious blue-green dream cloud. The artists MACS and Made514 combine cartoonish figures with surreal details and soft colors. Large heads, expressive faces, and subtle humor – like a sock with a hole in the big toe – give the work a warm, melancholic feel that keeps you captivated. Tip: Take your time to discover all the small details. The longer you look, the more surprising elements will emerge from this poetic dream world.

Monumental mosaic by Guido Savini – Art in the heart of Teramo On Corso San Giorgio, an impressive facade mosaic immediately catches the eye. This monumental work of art, designed by the Teramo artist Guido Savini and executed by mosaic master D'Urso, adorns the facade of the former TERCAS building. The colourful mosaic tells the story of labour, progress, and economic growth. You'll discover industrial installations, workers, trade goods, and an imposing cargo ship that together depict the development of Teramo and the region. In the background, a modern city rises under a radiant sun – a powerful symbol of hope and a promising future. Due to its enormous dimensions and many details, this is a work of art where you discover something new each time. Tip: Take a moment to view the mosaic up close and from across the street. From a distance, the composition comes into its own beautifully, while up close you can admire the thousands of mosaic tiles and the craftsmanship.