Located on the Adriatic coast of the province of Campobasso, the village of Termoli rises right on the meridian that determines the time zone of central-western Europe. Visiting Italian Greenwich means bringing home an important piece of Italian history and nature, the most authentic expression of the south. Even the memory of the camera is filled with wonder thanks to the many panoramic views offered by the city.
What to see in Termoli
The history of Termoli dates back to Roman times when “Ternulum” was an important commercial port, with a key role in the maritime traffic of the Adriatic. Through the centuries the village has been influenced by different cultures: the Norman, the Lombard, the Swabian, the Aragonese, all have left an indelible mark on its architecture and cultural identity.
Entering the city from the north side you immediately notice the medieval walls surrounding the “Old Country”, fortifications in defense of the fishing families who lived here. The peculiarity of this place is above all in its views of the sea, in the narrow, orderly and sometimes silent alleys. The most famous is the alley of Leva or “Rejecelle”: just 38 cm in width, which force you to pass in turn. To those who were entitled to precedence, at the time of arms and knights, it was a question that was decided by social status or a duel.
Among the historical events that have shaped the city stands out the construction of the Swabian Castle in the twelfth century, a symbol of power and defense against enemy incursions from the sea. Inside the Castle there is the Civic Archaeological Museum, whose exploration allows visitors to better understand the evolution and culture of the city over the centuries. It houses a rich collection of archaeological finds dating back to Roman and medieval times, including pottery, coins and bronze artifacts
At the base of the Castle, a little hidden, there is the first surprise for lovers of photography and beautiful landscapes: a viewpoint from which you can admire the entire beach of the northern promenade, the walls surrounding the old town and the trabucchi. On clear days you can even see the peaks of the Apennines on the horizon.
Another unmissable stop in the city is the Cathedral of San Basso, of Romanesque architecture. Here, too, there are suggestive views: going up on the terrace you can admire the entire village and the sea that caresses it.
The Cathedral is located in Piazza Duomo, the heart of the historic center. The square is also the place where many events and cultural events take place, concerts, art exhibitions and craft markets. During the Christmas period, Piazza Duomo is transformed into an enchanting living nativity scene, with scenes and settings that recall the tradition and folklore of the region. But it is in summer that is filled with voices and life, with cafes and restaurants that welcome tourists and vacationers.
At the former headquarters of the Bishop’s Palace, right next to the Cathedral, an unprecedented experience awaits visitors. During some renovation works here have been found rooms of medieval times (then variously reused over the centuries), including a warehouse of 1200, a mysterious cistern, some garages and a cemetery area.
Not to be missed in Termoli: many activities for those looking for sport or relaxation
In Termoli you can also visit the sea. The coastline stretches for about 10 kilometers, between beaches of fine white sand and waters that have repeatedly been awarded the Blue Flag. The beaches, about thirty, are particularly suitable for family holidays but also loved by children who, at sunset, come to drink an aperitif. The backdrops, which remain low for several meters from the bath dries, invite children to play. There is also the possibility of boat trips along the coast, while in the area of Rio Vivo windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts meet and you can rent equipment.
From the port of Termoli the Tremiti Islands can be reached in just over an hour and is an itinerary that is worth considering, for their amazing nature, both wild and ethereal.
On the coast of Termoli you can then visit two trebuchets. Trabucchi molisani represent an important part of the maritime tradition and coastal culture of the region. These are wooden and metal structures, positioned along the coast where the sea is deepest and used by fishermen to catch large quantities of fish without having to venture into the open sea.
The trabucchi are considered real cultural and historical symbols of the region. Some have been restored and transformed into characteristic seafood restaurants, where visitors can enjoy local delicacies immersed in a setting that touches the heart.
Foto : Unsplash
The taste of Termoli
Termoli is famous for its cuisine that reflects the richness of the territory and its culinary tradition. Fish dishes are the protagonists of local gastronomy, with specialties such as pasta alla chitarra with fresh fish sauce and “brodetto termolese”, a fish soup enriched with scampi, squid and mullet, cooked slowly in the tomato past and enriched with aromatic herbs.
Do not miss the typical local products, such as extra virgin olive oil and local cheeses such as caciocavallo, pecorino and scamorza. The mussels, caught in the crystal clear waters off the coast of Termoli, are prepared in many ways: baked in the oven, in soup or as a main ingredient of tasty pasta dishes. The olives are hand picked and processed according to artisanal techniques and are, of course, an excellent addition to salads, appetizers and meat dishes.
Traditional events in the village of Termoli
The feast of San Basso, held every year on August 4, is one of the most important events. On this occasion you can attend the religious procession, during which the statue of the Saint is led by sea from the beach of Rio Vivo to that of Sant’Antonio aboard a richly adorned fishing boat. Tradition has it that during the festival nobody gets wet in the sea as a sign of devotion.
Other events not to be missed in the village are the food and wine festivals, which allow visitors to enjoy the authentic flavors of local cuisine. The last weekend of August takes place, for example, the fish festival, accompanied by fireworks and musical performances.
Copertina: Unsplash
