페나피에디몬테 주변 최고의 교통량 없는 자전거 라이딩 코스

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

During the Second World War, a gunpowder depot blew up and seriously damaged the facility. A subsequent landslide destroyed further parts. The facility was restored in 2001. Now it looks almost a bit too new, but the next few centuries will change that again :-)

Inside the majestic cathedral of St. Thomas, since 1258 it has housed, in the crypt, the relics of the Apostle Thomas and the chalcedony tombstone stolen from Chios, an Aegean island, by Leo from Ortona during a military action. At the end of 1570 it rose to the dignity of Cathedral and on 23 December 1859, with the Bull of Pius IX, it was awarded the title of Minor Basilica.

A beautiful castle

Orsogna is a town with typical characteristics of the Abruzzo hills. The various architectures of the village testify to the long history that has shaped it. Of particular interest is the panoramic terrace, at the western entrance, from which you can admire the Maiella and the sea!

The Aragonese castle of Ortona is not only a splendid monument but also an excellent panoramic point. From here you can admire the Trabocchi coast to the south and a beautiful stretch of the famous cycle path. Entry to the castle area is free and it's worth taking a tour just for how well maintained it is.

Valley of the Holy Spirit. Roads for tourist bicycles, gravel bikes and mountain bikes. Hiking trails, climbing walls and historic sites. Caves, forests, streams and rivers. Areas where you can still enjoy solitude and nature that lures us with its peace, naturalness, remoteness...