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The history of the Eddy Merckx Monument, located in Roccamorice on the ramps leading to the Blockhaus, is a tale that inextricably links the Belgian champion to the Maiella massif, celebrating both sporting glory and human generosity. Its roots lie in a day that changed the history of mountain cycling: a stage of the 1970 Giro d'Italia, the first time the Giro challenged the summit of the Blockhaus. On that occasion, a young Merckx—soon known as the "Cannibal"—accomplished a momentous feat, outlasting all his opponents and securing a victory that became legendary. But it was a gesture that followed the victory that cemented the community's affection: it is said that Merckx, immediately after his triumph, donated the prize money to charity. To honor this dual legacy, sporting and moral, and in anticipation of the centennial of the Giro d'Italia, the municipality of Roccamorice promoted the erection of a monument. The work was created by local craftsman Franco Aceto and sculpted from the typical white Maiella stone, and was inaugurated on May 13, 2017. Since then, the monument has become a landmark and a true cycling sanctuary for all who tackle the climb, a tangible symbol of the strength, history, and altruism that have transformed the Blockhaus into a timeless legend.

It lacks nothing to be compared to many of the great Alpine climbs, 8% average for 19.6 from Roccamorice, the hardest and most panoramic side

This stretch is very panoramic: it offers beautiful views of the rolling hills.

Popularly called "Castelluccio" it dominates, from its hilly position, the town of Torre De' Passeri. Since 1980 it has been home to the Casa di Dante Institute of Studies and Research in Abruzzo.

Every time I emerge from the short tunnels above Raiano I stop to observe the road that goes up towards Vittorito.

The hermitage of San Venanzio is beautiful, set among the rocks on the Aterno river.

I used the small Molina station to return to Popoli after the visit to the Sirente and Velino Regional Park...I had run out of energy

This splendid fountain from the Roman era is located just outside Pescosansonesco Vecchio. It can be reached with an easy and pleasant walk from the village. There is also a wooden picnic table, perfect for a break in nature.