A Journey from Montesilvano to the Tempio di Valadier and Grotte di Frasassi

Lothar Breitenbach
4 min readJan 21, 2024

Montesilvano, a charming coastal town on the Adriatic Sea, served as the starting point for a mesmerizing adventure that led me to the Tempio di Valadier and the awe-inspiring Grotte di Frasassi. This journey was a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and culinary delights.

Photo by Author

My journey began in Montiesilvano, where the sun-kissed beaches and the soothing waves set the perfect tone for exploration. After enjoying a leisurely morning on the shores, I embarked on a scenic drive towards the Tempio di Valadier, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Italian countryside.

Photo by Author: Tempio di Valadier

As I arrived at the Tempio di Valadier, I was struck by its unique and captivating presence. This neo-classical temple was constructed in 1828 by Giuseppe Valadier, an Italian architect, at the request of Pope Leo XII. The temple was built into the side of a limestone cliff, and its remote location amidst the rolling hills of Italy added to its mystique.

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Lothar Breitenbach

Retired. Back in Bavaria, Germany, after more than 30 years abroad. Learning how I have changed.