Rediscover history in the tranquility and charm of the old town centre
The winding road from the beach takes you through a landscape dotted with olive groves and vineyards, and the remains of a Roman villa from the 2nd century B.C., upto Tortoreto Alta, a medieval village perched at 227 meters above sea level. A privileged "observatory" to admire a unique view of the coast, the valleys of the Salinello and Vibrata rivers, and the Gran Sasso Mountains thanks to numerous natural balconies suspended in the void.
Tortoreto’s old town centre is a system of small squares, narrow streets, arches, and towers characterised by warm brick tones, preserving the structure of the fortified village. In ancient times, it housed the local nobility at the highest part of the city, whereas today it hosts the Town Hall and several important cultural sites.
What to see
Church of Sant'Agostino
In Tortoreto Alto, you can admire the Church of Sant’Agostino, which dates back to medieval times and was originally dedicated to Sant’Antonio Abate. From the brick facade you enter through a portal crowned by an elegant seventeenth-century niche. The interior features a single nave with a barrel vault. The stucco decorations and wooden altar are in Baroque style. The most precious artwork preserved here is the large canvas depicting the Baptism of St. Augustine, painted by the Calabrian painter Mattia Preti. We thank Professor Giuliano Rasicci for his dedication and love for our territory.
Domus delle Muracche
Mosaics, vases, fermentation vats and a wine press are the invaluable historical treasures you can admire when visiting the rustic villa Muracche, a true ancient agricultural estate where wine was also produced. The remains date from the 2nd century B.C. to the 4th century A.D. This archaeological site you can learn about the characteristics and uses of settlements in the ancient territory of Castrum Truentinum.
Chiesa della Misericordia
Located in the heart of the historic centre, according to tradition, the Chiesa della Misericordia was built in 1348 as a thanksgiving to the Virgin of Mercy for protection from the devastating plague, as described by Boccaccio in the Decameron. The walls and vault of the church are decorated with a series of frescoes depicting the Life of Jesus and the Redemption of Humanity. This work was completed on September 26, 1526, by the Renaissance painter Giacomo Bonfini from Patrignone di Montalto Marche (1470-1557). In the background of the central scene is a painting, depecting Tortoreto with the main gate, towers, battlements, and the sea with ships.
Palio del Barone
Tortoreto’s past and historical traditions come alive through the historical reenactment of the "Palio del Barone", set in 1234, organised by the Due Torri Association. Along the streets of the Lido On July 23 and in the historic centre on August 16, step back in time and take part in festivities, historical games, medieval music, and dances. Bear witness to the historic competition between the two districts of Tortoreto: Terravecchia (symbolised by the turtledove crest) and Terranova (with the crow emblem).
