Lanciano: 6 Day Tour by Foot or Bicycle

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1 Lanciano: 6 Day Tour by Foot or Bicycle ABOUT LANCIANO Lanciano is a town located in the Province of Chieti in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. The Abruzzo region stretches from the Apennines to the Adriatic sea, which is characterised by its variety of beaches. The unique climate generated from the Mediterranean sun, and the land from mountain to sea, makes for a great ecosystem, leading Abruzzo to often be called the green region of Europe. Lanciano itself is a beautiful medieval town which maintains its warmth and character from the years gone by. The town has unique architecture and history which makes it a great point to station yourself as a tourist in the region looking to walk or cycle to the local attractions of the region. BIKE HIRE The bike sharing scheme is a recent addition to the town and makes for a great way to explore the local area. Lanciano has much to offer in a radius of only a few kilometres, making bike riding an ideal way of moving due to its clean impact on the environment, speed of movement, and also health benefits. The bike sharing system can be joined for only a small annual registration fee of 20,00 at Piazza Plebiscito 60. On payment, you will be assigned a key, which will allow you the ability to unlock a bike from one of 6 locations. The service is available between 7:00 and 21:00 (1 November to 31 March) and from 7.00 to 23 (1 April - October 31st), and has a maxinum allowance of 3 consecutive hours. 1 DAY ONE: LANCIANO The town of Lanciano itself is worthy of your interest with its historical past being on display through different architecture, art, and religious miracles. It s beautiful roads and paths make for a tremendous bike tour. Day one shall begin with a visit to two of the major churches in the area, Santa Maria del Ponte and Chiesa di San Francesco which can both be found in the town centre, Piazza Plebiscito, and are both linked by an underground ancient passage which has been 1 For further information and booking documents please visit

2 recently excavated to allow you to walk along the ancient origins of the old town now built on top of. Santa Maria del Ponte finds its uniqueness as a place of worship as it is built on top of a bridge. The construction of the bridge is thought to be from the days of Diocletians. The decision to erect a place of worship on top of the bridge came in 1389, as there was found to be a statue of the Madonna found after renovations following an earthquake in The statue appears to be an ancient Byzantine icon, hidden in the eighth century in an arch of the bridge to save it from the iconoclasts. The Cathedral has a grand splendour to it inside and out, leaving much to be marvelled at. Santa Maria del Ponte When you have finished your time in the Santa Maria del Ponte please make your way leisurely through the undergound passages which lead you to Chiesa di San Francesco. Chiesa di San Francesco 2 is perhaps how Lanciano garners much of its fame, as it houses Il Miracolo Eucaristico, a miracle of the eucharist which is considered the first miracle of its kind by the Catholic church. A basilian monk, around 700 AD, was celebrating mass inside of his church, when he gathered doubts about the transubstantiation (that the wine and bread is literally that of Jesus body) of the eucharist he was partaking in. It is said that, when saying the words of conscecration ("This is my body. This is my blood") with doubt in his heart, the monk witnessed the bread and wine changing into actual blood and flesh, thought to be that of Jesus. These items Chiesa di San Francesco have since been scientifically tested on, with the results revealing that there is no doubt in these items being literal blood and flesh. The miracle is now found in Chiesa di San Francesco and is visited by thousands of catholics on pilgrimage from around the whole world, and also non-religious people alike on a daily basis. Lunch in one of Lanciano s many central cafes or restaurants to try some of the loca and/or, traditional food, some found at the bottom of this itinerary (See the link Dove Mangiare ). 2 Contact information: Corso Roma, Lanciano Tel The church is closed from 12:00 14:00.

3 After lunch, it would be nice to take a gentle walk or bike ride around Lancianovecchia and Civitanova Sacca, these are two quarters of the town that are full of ancient buildings and artifacts. Porta San Biagio Lancianovecchia literally meaning old Lanciano was the first settlement in Lanciano and housed the old castle. Sadly, an earthquake in the 8 th century destroyed much of the oldest parts of the town, and much of it was rebuilt on. This area is home to Chiesa di San Biagio, which is the oldest building in the town dating all the way back to Also dating back to the 11 th century is Porta San Biagio, the only one of nine gatehouses which remain in the town. These gatehouse were part of the old city walls, however they were demolished at the beginning of the 20 th century to encourage urban growth. The quarter of Civitanova Sacca dates from around the end of 1200s. According to some historians, the area was originally inhabited by a few Jewish families. The Sacca quarter is largely on a slope and is home to the one hundred steps. Following these steps takes up up to Saint Rocco and Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Nicola 3. San Nicola was built around 1262, on top of the church San Pellegrino which was destroyed by fire. Inside there is a series of frescos on The Legend of the True Cross. While at this church also pay a visit to Museo di San Nicola 4. Also in this quarter is Santa Maria Maggiore, a church that is considered one of the most important in the Abruzzo region. The church is visually stunning after undergoing many architectural changes, and has a grand entrance designed by Francesco Petrini. This church houses a splendorous and grand silver cross, which leads the processions through town at key occasions in the Catholic calendar. In front of this church is also Museo e Archivio Santa Maria Maggiore Storico Federico Spoltore 5 which houses Feederico s grand collection of art from different ages. Museo Diocesano Lanciano If you still have time remaining then Lanciano still has a huge amount to offer. Perhaps you could visit Museo Diocesano Lanciano 6. This diocesan museum 3 Contact information: Via Garibaldi, Lanciano, CH. Tel chiesasannicola@virgilio.it 4 The museum is open Saturday s from 16:00 to 17:30, Sundays from 11 to 12, for the other days it is advisable to book by calling Visits by appointment only. For info tel Contact information: Largo dell Apello Lanciano, CH Tel

4 is a really important to the Abruzzo people, containing the most important religious art to them. The exhibitions contain centuries worth of evidence important to church history, through paintings, sculptures, jewellery, tapestries, wooden furniture, embroideries, manuscripts some even dating back to the 12 th century. Another place worthy of attention is Polo Museale Santo Spirito. The Monastery of the Holy Spirit, is among one the oldest buildings in the city whose remains have overcome centuries of destructive events. However you decide to spend your day in Lanciano, you are sure to visit some splendid places that will really resonate with majesty. Lanciano is full of quaint corners that seem untouched by modern technologies which can only be discovered on foot or bicycle, so please take your time to explore, and keep your eyes open! Please be aware that the itinerary is already very full, and therefore, you may not be able to fit in either of these extra activities. Also, both the diocesan museum and the museum of the Holy Spirit are quite far apart in distance, so please choose your activities carefully. Dinner in one of Lanciano s many central cafes or restaurants to try some of the loca and/or, traditional food some found at the bottom of this itinerary (See the link Dove Mangiare ). Night at the hotel (See the link Dove Dormire ) and explore the nightlife as you wish. DAY TWO: COSTA DEI TRABOCCHI or THE WALK OF THE APOSTLE THOMAS Depending on your prefences for today, you could either visit the Costa Dei Trabocchi or The Walk of the Apostle Thomas. For a pictueresque day it is suggested you visit the Costa dei Trabocchi. It is remcommened to follow this route as a bike journey, but walking will also be great, Abruzzo is a region known for its national parks and mountain lines, but it is also a region that stretches a huge coastline. Costa dei Trabocchi is a fantastic place to meet all the different landscapes that Abruzzo, and more intimately the Lanciano area, has to offer. The coastline is very differese, one Costa dei Trabocchi moment presenting you with jagged cliffs and cave, and the next giving you stretches of sand. In your time at the Costa dei Trabocchi you will undoubtedly bump into The Trabocchi / The Overflows. The overflows are strange and complex fishing machines, hoisted on stilts and almost miraculously supported by a network of cables and axes. Despite looking unsafe, they have held strong through many different weather types, and huge loads of fisherman using them as a base.

5 When travelling from Lanciano it is probably best to first visit the towns of Rocca San Giovanni and Fossacesia first. In Rocca San Giovani places of interest include the Cave of the Butterflies. Rocca San Giovani also keeps some remains of the ancient city walls, which once surrounded the entire circle inhabited. See, also, the church of St Matthew the Apostle, which was built in the Romanesque style with three naves, and the Town Hall from the 19 th century which contains many works of art. Lunch in one of Fossacesia s cafes, or one of the local Agriturismo, to try some traditional food of the region (See the link Dove Mangiare ) After lunch, take a leisurely bike ride or stroll along the coastal path to San Vito Chietino. San Vito has been repeatedly awared the Blue Flag award for its beaches, making it a lovely, clean, environment to spend an afternoon in. Places of interest in San Vito include, as well as the Overflow, Dannunziano Hermitage and perhaps one of the many churches (Church of the Madonna delle Grazie, Church of San Francesco da Paola et al). Dannunziano Hermitage is a house museum to Gabriele D'Annunzio who used the house when writing his poems in also happens to be the 150 th year anniversary of Gabriele D Annunzio s birth meaning there are many events happening throughout the year. 7 If you do wish to visit the Dannunziano Hermitage then we would like to bring to your attention the walk along the old railway line. This walk is definitely more of a trek, and therefore needs suitable footwear and clothing. You can also combat the terrain with a mountain bike if that is your preference. Either way the track will reward you with wonderful scenery, and will take you straight to the museum. Dinner in one of San Vito s many restaurants, to try some of the local, traditional food (See the link Dove Mangiare ) before returning to Lanciano. Night at the hotel (See the link Dove Dormire ) OR The Walk of the Apostle Thomas 8 is a grand walk covering many kilometers in Abruzzo which we can join in Lanciano and take towards the sea at Ortona, the town which is the resting place of St. Thomas. This walk can be taken on foot, bicycle or horseback. The route is an official pathway of Cammini d Europa (Routes of Europe). Their aim is to recover and develop the great historical and cultural itineraries of Europe, which have contributed 7 Further information on the events planned throughout the year can be found on the page Calendario at or Tel Further information: This website will also contain other parts of the walk which can be accessed from Lanciano.

6 so greatly towards shaping Europe s present-day identity. 9 The walk will take roughly six hours and will guide you through so beautiful untouched scenery in the countryside, and through Frisa. The path from Frisa to Ortona is a largely flat and leisurely. When you arrive in Ortona you will find a quaint old town in which the cathedral houses the remains of St. Thomas. Also, do not miss visiting the Museum Diocesano, located in the oldest part of the Cathedral, and close to Aragonese Castle fortress overlooking the sea. For lunch it may be wise to take food with you, or feel free to stop at and of the restaurants recommended in the brochure Culto e Cultura in Abruzzo: Il cammino dell Apostolo Tommaso. Dinner in one of Lanciano s many central cafes or restaurants to try some of the loca and/or, traditional food some found at the bottom of this itinerary (See the link Dove Mangiare ). Night at the hotel (See the link Dove Dormire ) and explore the nightlife as you wish. DAY THREE: LAKE BOMBA & MAJELLA NATIONAL PARK In the morning a visit to Lake Bomba is recommended. Lake Bomba is in Sangro Valley, which keeps in harmony with the rest of Abruzzo by offering stunning views. The lake is a beautiful tourist place with the Tourist Centres able to direct you as to what activities may be happening on the lake at that time. There is also a swimming pool surrounded by trees and a backdrop of the lake and its surrounding mountains which should be open all year round. In the summertime it is possible to enjoy boat races, wind-surfing, boat trips, and many other interesting activities on the lake. Lunch in one of the nearby cafes or resturants, to try some traditional food of the region (See the link Dove Mangiare ). Majella National Park Source: In the afternoon continues west to Majella National Park 10. Majella National Park is a national park that is set amongst the mountains in the central Apennines. The park boasts around 500km of walking paths, with tourist offices regularly situated to aid you throughout your day. During your adventures you may even be fortunate to see one of Abruzzo s Apennine wolfs! As well as walking paths, there is also botanical gardens, visitor centers, museums, and ski resorts for the snowy seasons. Majella offers 9 Who We Are, Cammini d Europa, (accessed: 28th March 2013). 10 For more information please visit

7 different gradients of trial walks and ski runs, depending on your experience level and ability, so whether you want a hard days mountain climbing or a gentle ski slope for learners Majella has is all to offer. Dinner in one of the many Agriturismos of the area, to try some of the local, traditional food (See the link Dove Mangiare ) before returning to Lanciano. Night at the hotel (See the link Dove Dormire ) DAY FOUR: SAFARI PARK d ABRUZZO & FOSSACESIA For a more relaxed day after the strenuos walks and bike rides around the area we suggest a trip to the Safari Park d Abruzzo 11. The Abruzzo Safari Park is very local to Lanciano, only a 90 minute walk or an even shorted bike ride away, making it a great destination to have a fun day with some scenic leisurely walking alongside. A ticket, which can be purchased for only 13 for adults, allows you a days entrace to the park as well as admission into shows which are put on throughout the day. The safari park is home to many different animals including; rhinos, elephants, giraffes, tigers, lions, and even some ligers which were born at the park only recently! The park has it s own picnic area and self-service dining, so feel free to lunch using either of those facilities. Depending on how much time you have left of your day after finish at the Safari Park, you may wish to continue your exploring and head to Fossacesia which is the closest town, only a 3km walk away. Depending on whether you chose to do the Trabocchi walk on day two you may have already passed through Fossacesia Marina which is a shore line graced with sandy beaches and scented flowers, whilst also being dominated by the Trabocchi. However, Fossacesia has much more to offer as the Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere Source: hills surrounding are rich in vegetation and give growth to many vineyards, extra-virgin olive oil, fruits and vegetables, which can be found in many of the local shops and cafés. Fossacesia is also home to the famous Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere which is home to a basilica and monastery, facing over the Adriatic coast at 107m above sea level. The distance from the main centre of Fossacesia down to Fossacesia Marina is a few kilometres, but will provide you a tremendous walk or bike ride if you wish to travel it. 11 For further information: Rocca San Giovanni (Chieti) Contrada Scalzino, Cap Tel: The park is open from 10am-7pm with its closing day on Tuesdays.

8 On your return dinner in one of Lanciano s many central cafes or restaurants to try some of the loca and/or, traditional food some found at the bottom of this itinerary (See the link Dove Mangiare ). Night at the hotel (See the link Dove Dormire ) Isole Tremiti Source: DAY FIVE: ISOLE TREMITI Laying 12 miles off the coast of the main land is a series of islands (archipelago) known as Isole Tremiti or the Tremiti Islands. They are known for their unspoilt nature and beauty leading them to be known as Pearls of the Adriatic. The islands each have crystal clear water which surround them, making them a wonderful place to swim and snorkel, amongst other sea sports. The islands are also hugely popular with scuba divers with dives ranging in difficulty depending on your experience level, whether this is your first dive or 100 th you ll be well catered for. 12 Depending on your preferences for the day you may wish to visit only a certain island. San Domino is the most developed island for tourists, with facilities and even accommodation for you to make use of, and also has the only sand beach of any of the islands. San Nicola has the most history and religious history about it, leading it to become the administrative centre for the islands. While the remaining three are largely uninhabited islands without very much growth or sights to see. Ferry services operate from the mainland from Termoli, Foggia, Vieste, Rodi Garganico e Caporale, and other boat services will take you between the islands for as little as 5 return. On your return dinner in one of Lanciano s many central cafes or restaurants to try some of the loca and/or, traditional food some found at the bottom of this itinerary (See the link Dove Mangiare ). Night at the hotel (See the link Dove Dormire ) DAY SIX: PARCO NAZIONALE DEL GRAN SASSO What better way to spend the final day of the itinerary than in the presence of the largest mountain peak that the Apennine mountains has to offer. Parco Nazionale Del Gran Sasso is one of the largest protected areas in all of Europe, in which is preserves some rich 12 For more information on diving in the Tremiti Islands please visit or

9 archeological and historical treasures. Affluent in forests, waterfalls, rock faces, ancient villages, castles, and plains, you should never find a moment of boredom at this park. The park itself has its own itineraries which can be joined by either foot, bicycle, or horseback which aid you in viewing the most sites possible during your visit. 13 You may also be interested in canoeing, kayaking (along the River Tirino) or skiing if the season permits. Also for those of you interested in extreme sports of mountain biking, trekking, rock climbing, and mountaineering then you shall be well catered for here. The park range is also home to some spectacular wildlife, including deer, the Apennine wolf, and many rare birds of prey such as, golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and eagle owls. On your return dinner in one of Lanciano s many central cafes or restaurants to try some of the loca and/or, traditional food some found at the bottom of this itinerary (See the link Dove Mangiare ). Night at the hotel (See the link Dove Dormire ) Parco Nationale Del Gran Sasso Source: 13 For more information regarding itineraries please visit

10 LISTA DEI PIATTI TIPICI DI LANCIANO A list of the typical dishes of Lanciano Cottura tipica sotto il coppo Typical cooking under the tiles. RINTROCILO pasta tipica Typical pasta. PALLOTT CASC E OVE polpette tipiche Typical meatballs. FEGATTAZZA salcicce di fegato Liver sausage. BRODO AL CARDO tipico di Natale Typical christmas meal. CIF E CIAF piatto di carne di maiale tipico invernale Pork dish, typical of winter. CUNIJE RIPIEN coniglio ripieno e cotto sotto al coppo nel focolare Stuffed rabbit.

11 BACCALA CON PEPERONI OPPURE CON PATATE Fish with peppers or potatoes PIZZ A FOJE pizza di granturco condita con erbe MISTICANZA selvatiche spontanee CON SARDE FRITTE E PEPERONI SECCHI FRITTI with herbs with chips and fried peppers. Pizza seasoned CIAMAJICHE LUMACHE DI TERRA, tipiche periodo natalizio Land snails typical at christmas. COTICHE E FASCIUL pelle di maiale con fagioli Beans with pork skin. PIZZA DI PASQUA O PANE DI PASQUA pane arricchito con salsiccia, pancetta, uovo e formaggio Bread with bacon, sausage, egg and cheese. CRISPELLE dolce tipico natalizio A sweet typical at Christmas.

12 CUORI, PUPE E CAVALIUCCI DI PASQUA dolci pasquali Typical Easter sweet.