Teramo

About two hours outside Rome is the region of Abruzzo that boasts both sun-capped mountains and sunny beaches. In the province of Teramo, Italy, there’s a city having the same name, that offers a lot! The province of Teramo is perfectly situated between the Adriatic Coast and the Apennine Mountains. Teramo is a wonderful place to visit for beachcombers and mountain aficionados alike. We would like to show you the Travel Guide to Teramo. Let’s discover another gem of Abruzzo, Italy!

History of Teramo

Did you know that Teramo was built on the site of Interamna and later destroyed by barbarian invasion? The Province of Teramo was rebuilt in 1806 by the Kingdom of Naples, separating it from the actual province of L’Aquila.

The cities of Martinsicuro, Alba Adriatica, Tortoreto, Giulianova, Roseto degli Abruzzi, Pineto and Silvi are located along Teramo’s coastline and have wonderful access to the sea, while towards the mountains are Prati di Tivo and Prato Selva–located more than 1,500 meters above sea level–and the Gran Sasso d’Italia (Great Stone of Italy) and the Gemelli (“Twin”) Mountains.

The region’s economy is largely based on agriculture and trade and it is known for industries such as ceramics, food products, and textiles. The area was inhabited by an ancient population called the Piceni, which was included in the territory of The Marches.

Sightseeing in Teramo, Italy

One of the biggest draws in the city is San Bernardo Cathedral, which was built by Bishop Guido II in 1158. The cathedral proper was created in the Romanesque style. The portal, designed by Deodato di Cosma in the 14th century, was done in the Gothic style.

The cathedral boasts a beautiful silver paliotto created by Nicola of Guardagriele. It depicts thirty-five scenes in the life of Jesus and a gorgeous polyptych designed by Jacobello del Fiore that shows the Coronation of the Virgin. The 50-meter bell tower is annexed to the cathedral and showing an elegant architectural style.

Built in 1127, Sant’Antonio Church is another beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. The church features a single interior nave and a beautiful portal. Due to several renovations over the centuries the church’s interior has a decidedly Baroque feel.

Another beautiful church in Teramo is the medieval San Getulio. San Getulio is known to be built on the ruins of an ancient Roman temple and destroyed by the Normans in 1155. Only a few Romanesque elements from the building’s original structure, including the presbyterium, remain. The rest of the façade and other decorations were added in later years.

San Domenico Church is worth seeing for its architecture and several beautiful pieces of artwork located within. The most impressive work in the 14th-century church is one that features the Virgin with Child.

If in Teramo you should also think about visiting the Madonna delle Grazie Sanctuary, which has a beautifully designed Romanesque cloister. Inside there is a miraculous wooden statue of the Virgin created in the 15th century by Silvestro dell’Aquila. Also worth seeing is the 14th century Bishop’s Palace or Palazzo Vescovile.

Teramo also has several Roman ruins, including the remains of an amphitheater, thought to date back to the 3rd or 4th century, and a theatre from 30 BC. Although these structures are only shadows of their former selves the ruins are definitely worth visiting for their historical and archaeological significance.

Getting to Teramo, Abruzzo, Italy

While there is no airport in Teramo one can easily fly into Pescara or Rome. These are located only two hours from the city. Another option is taking the train, although there is not a direct line from Rome and one would have to connect through the city of Giulianova.

Teramo’s station is located close to the downtown area for easy access. There are also several buses coming into Teramo from Rome daily. Those planning to drive can easily reach the city by taking the A24 highway from Rome and exiting at Teramo. Those traveling from the north or south can take the A14.

Getting around in Teramo, Italy

Not having a car isn’t a problem at all in a city like Teramo. In fact, these winding cobblestone streets are best explored on foot. The historic city center’s narrow streets are lined with ancient houses and structures. You can find small shops, cafes, and restaurants, all of which are within a short walk from one another.

The city also has ample public transit, although their buses are mostly used by locals commuting to and from work. The buses can also be used by tourists and tickets can be purchased at most tobacco shops in the city.

One of the best times to visit Teramo is in September. The city holds a large festival known as Magna Teramo. During the festival, visitors are able to sample many local dishes and desserts. They can also learn much about the locals and their way of life.

Accommodation in Teramo, Italy

Teramo has many good hotels as well as several beds and breakfasts. If you are planning to stay in the area for more than a week you might want to consider the various agritourism residences, country homes, and farms available for rent in the area. Some of the city’s best hotels include Albergo Gran Sasso, Casale in Valle San Giovanni, Casette Lucciola, La Grande Quercia and Agritourismo Fabiocchi.

Eating Out in Teramo, Abruzzo

Once you are in Teramo, the small restaurants will amaze you. These serve dishes typical to the region like pasta alla chitarra (“guitar”). The flat pasta looks similar to fettuccine and is usually made with eggs.

The pasta got its name from the stringed metal device called chitarra, which helps make the pasta. It is often served with tomato-based sauces, including lamb and polpettine (tiny meatballs). Some of the world’s best pasta alla chitarra dishes can be found in Valle San Giovanni. This is located six miles from Teramo proper.

Another traditional local dish to sample when in Teramo is scrippelle. These are crepe-like creations typically made without milk and there are two common varieties: scrippelle ‘mbusse (crepes with cheese made in broth) and timballo, which are scrippelle layered with ragù, polpettini, cheeses like scamorza, and sometimes even piselli (peas). A must-try if you are in the area!

Shopping in Teramo

Teramo is a great city for shopping, especially if you are in the market for the traditional items and handicrafts fashioned by the locals. The best thing to shop for in Teramo is ceramics and they are widely available in most shops. Visitors will also find many stores that sell beautiful textiles and fabrics. You can visit the weekly market on Saturdays where you can buy fresh and delicious food products like cheese and olive oil.

There are many beautiful towns and lands to visit in Abruzzo, near Teramo, you can also add Assergi between many others to your itinerary!

Reasons to visit Teramo

We hope you have enjoyed learning about Teramo and all the reasons why you should visit this beautiful place. Italy is just full of little wonders we need to discover. Sometimes we think of visiting the places that were already “popular” on the internet. While that is also a good idea, wouldn’t you want to discover something new and tell your friends about it? The Province of Teramo is exactly where you should go, discover the food, local business, nature and scenery all in one!