Chieti: A 1-Day Walking Itinerary Through Museums and Historic Palaces

The first stop on my Chieti itinerary is the University Museum, housed in the former Arnaldo Mussolini building in Piazza Trento e Trieste. As soon as I entered, I was struck by the turtle sculpture supporting the city at the side entrance – a work by Paolo Borghi, an original welcome. The museum spans over 1,800 square meters and holds more than 20,000 artifacts across paleontological, anthropological, and scientific collections. On the ground floor, spectacular fossils and dinosaur casts; then I go upstairs and discover the mummy section, human remains studied to understand past diseases and lifestyles. Not to be missed is the turtle collection from the Paglione donation, with hundreds of objects from around the world, including works by Guttuso. On the basement level, scientific instruments from the past in optics and acoustics. A place that combines science and curiosity, truly unique. The ticket costs only 3 euros, and entry is free for under 6 and over 66. Open Tuesday to Friday 9–8 P.M., Saturday and Sunday 3–8 P.M. In short, a stop you wouldn’t expect.

From the heart of Chieti, climbing up to La Civitella, you reach one of the most fascinating museums in Abruzzo. Inaugurated in 2000 on a design by Ettore de Lellis, it stands right on the acropolis of ancient Teate, where once there were temples and an amphitheater. The modern structure blends into the landscape, and as soon as you enter, you are captivated by the reconstruction of the polychrome pediments from the 2nd century BC: Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva still with traces of their original colors. The itinerary is divided into three sections: The Beginning of Urban History with the remains of the Republican temples, The Land of the Marrucini which tells the story of the Italic peoples with artifacts from the Paleolithic to the Goddess of Rapino, and From Rome to Yesterday where the mausoleum of Lusius Storax with gladiator scenes stands out. Outside, the Roman amphitheater (1st century AD) is open to visitors and offers a view of the Majella. A place that combines archaeology, contemporary architecture, and nature, perfect for those who love history without boredom.