Campli (Teramo): Wonders of Abruzzo Between History, Hilltop Villages and Slow Nature

An inspiring guide for travelers seeking authenticity

Abruzzo safeguards silent corners where time flows more slowly, landscapes breathe, and the soul finds its ancient rhythm again. Among these special places lies Campli, a small town in the province of Teramo that captivates with its preserved beauty, artistic treasures and an atmosphere that invites visitors to travel with all five senses.

For guests staying at La Casetta di Trignano, Campli is a must-see destination — close by, rich in heritage and perfect for slow-travel lovers.

Campli: an ancient town between two former kingdoms, beneath the watchful Monti Gemelli

In the heart of the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, within a territory once included in the “District Between the Two Kingdoms”, Campli rises on a plateau nestled between the valleys of the Siccagno and Fiumicino streams.Around it, the imposing silhouettes of the Monti Gemelli dominate the landscape like ancient stone guardians.

The territory has been inhabited since antiquity: the impressive tombs of the Italic Necropolis of Campovalano, used from the 12th to the 2nd century BC, remain one of the most important archaeological sites in Central Italy.

The historic centre: a perfectly preserved medieval jewel

Campli still retains the essence of a medieval merchant village, with stone alleys, Renaissance palaces and elegant loggias that tell stories of ancient daily life and trade.

Among its most fascinating architectural highlights:

14th-century porticoed buildings

A walk under these medieval arcades feels like entering a living painting.

The Apothecary’s House & the Doctor’s House (16th century)

• The Apothecary’s House, with its beautiful late-1500s loggia.

• The Doctor’s House, renowned for its Latin mottos carved into the window lintels — an unexpected detail that enchants travelers.

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The Church of San Francesco

Along the main street stands its stunning 14th-century carved stone portal, attached to the former Franciscan convent that now hosts the National Archaeological Museum, home to the artifacts from Campovalano.

The Holy Staircase: devotion and silence in a unique Italian site

One of the symbols of Campli is the Holy Staircase, where tradition tells that ascending on one’s knees grants plenary indulgence.Even without participating in the ritual, its quiet atmosphere — wooden steps, soft light, sacred silence — offers a deeply evocative experience.

One-Day Itinerary: Discovering Campli and Its Surroundings

For guests of La Casetta di Trignano, here is a perfect slow-travel itinerary that blends art, history, nature and flavours.

🔹 Morning — Campli: History, Art & Ancient Atmospheres

09:00 — Arrival in Campli & stroll through the medieval centreStart your day wandering through the historic streets, admiring the porticoes, Renaissance palaces and stone houses that preserve the soul of the medieval merchant town.

09:45 — Church of San Francesco & National Archaeological MuseumVisit the iconic stone portal and explore the museum exhibiting the artifacts from the Italic Necropolis of Campovalano.

11:15 — The Holy Staircase (Scala Santa)Experience one of Abruzzo’s most iconic and spiritual places.

🔹 Lunch — Authentic local flavours

12:30 — Lunch in a traditional trattoriaDon’t miss:

• Campli’s famous porchetta,

• fresh arrosticini,

• handmade chitarra pasta,

• local wines such as Pecorino, Passerina and Montepulciano.

🔹 Afternoon — Nearby villages and panoramic views

14:15 — Civitella del Tronto & the Bourbon FortressExplore one of Italy’s most beautiful villages and its extraordinary fortress, with sweeping views across the hills to the Adriatic Sea.

16:30 — Scenic stop overlooking the Monti GemelliA peaceful place to rest, take photos and appreciate the landscape surrounding Campli.

🔹 Late afternoon — Nature & slow travel

17:15 — Walk in the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National ParkChoose a short walk or nature break among forests, streams and gentle hills — the perfect setting for mindful slow travel.

🔹 Evening — Return to La Casetta di Trignano

18:30 — Relax & sunsetReturn to the tranquil atmosphere of La Casetta di Trignano.Enjoy a glass of local wine and the peaceful colours of sunset after a day rich in history and natural beauty.

The flavours of Campli: a genuine taste of Abruzzo

No visit is complete without tasting the region’s traditional dishes:

• the legendary porchetta di Campli,

• authentic arrosticini,

• local cheeses and cured meats,

• Teramo’s traditional wines.

A cuisine rooted in simplicity, authenticity and rural heritage.

Why Campli is perfect for guests of La Casetta di Trignano

Campli and its surroundings offer the ideal combination of:

• millennial history,

• untouched nature,

• authentic rural villages,

• living traditions,

• a naturally slow and rejuvenating pace.

It’s the kind of place that stays with you.

Campli: a place to listen to, more than to visit

Campli is not just a destination — it’s an experience.It’s the echo of footsteps on stone streets, the shade of medieval arcades, the aroma of roasting porchetta, and the mountains framing the town like an embrace.

A special invitation for guests of La Casetta di Trignano:let yourself be moved by this corner of Abruzzo, where history, nature and silence speak directly to the heart.