Along the sandy beaches on the Adriatic Coast of Italy you will find the small town of Termoli. Once known as a fishing port, it has now started to grow in popularity as a travel destination beyond local holiday goers. Found in the Region of Molise, Termoli has wide sandy beaches, historic fortifications and incredible trabucchi (old structures made from wood used for fishing). Popular with locals during the Summer months, Termoli, like the rest of Molise, remains undiscovered by foreign travellers.
What makes Termoli worth a visit?
Surrounded by a wall dropping directly down to the sea, the old town of Termoli is a fortified citadel, positioned on a natural rocky promontory overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The view is breathtaking across all seasons. Over the years, the buildings of the centro storico, including the homes, have been re-furbished and painted in a range of bright pastel colours, making this town a quaint and very pretty destination to visit.
What to see on a visit to Termoli?
On arrival, you will notice the grand Castello Svevo, the Swabian Castle. Built in the 11th century by Count Robert I of Loritello and then rebuilt by Frederick II of Swabia in the 13th century, the castle appears strategically placed, embracing the historic centre like it’s there to protect it. A beautiful view from a distance, on one side the historic centre perched on top of the promontory, on the other the mainland and, finally, the coast of the Adriatic Sea.
In the heart of Termoli, La Cattedrale di Santa Maria della Purificazione stands dedicated to the Purification of the Virgin Mary. A masterpiece, the 12th century cathedral displays Puglian-Romanesque architecture at its best. Originally built in 1037, over the remains of a pagan temple, the current standing cathedral was built between the 12th and 13th centuries.
Resembling a labyrinth, Termoli’s town centre stands out for its winding and narrow alleys, the one to look out for is the famous Vico II Castello, considered one of the narrowest in all of Europe. But once you have exhausted yourself from exploring the town, Termoli’s 10kms of wide sandy beaches are a must. Composed of white sand and crystal-clear water, on several occasions the beaches have earned the Blue Flag certification in recognition of the quality and cleanliness of the water.
Trabucchi – strange wooden structures leading out to the sea?
While exploring Termoli, you will notice the strange wooden structures standing from the shore leading out meters into the sea. In ancient times, when dangerous weather deemed it to unsafe for boats to venture out to sea, these wooden platforms allowed fishermen to continue to fish. A fascinating sight along the coast, the trubacchi, can be admired on foot or from the villages above.
So, what’s to eat while in Termoli?
If you enjoy experiencing local dishes, try Brodetto alla Termolese, a stew prepared with local fish and seafood. Originally, a peasant dish for Termoli’s fishermen, prepared using the catch they were unable to sell, the stew is made with olive oil, garlic, parsley, tomatoes, red peppers, and a variety of fish and seafood such as squid, monkfish, shrimps, clams, and mussels. The stew simmers until everything is fully cooked and served. Try with a glass of local Falanghina white wine.
How to get to Termoli?
Want to learn more about Termoli? Vita Italian Tours take you to Termoli as well as many other must-see destinations along the southern Adriatic Coast of Italy on the luxury small group tour Spectacular South – Puglia, Abruzzo & Matera
If independent travel is more your style, why not let Vita Italian Tours plan a tailor-made self-drive or chauffeur driven private itinerary for you.
Contact us today to plan your visit.