Alla Ricerca delle Fonti

A festival in search of the "sources" of local identity

Alla Ricerca delle Fonti is a travelling cultural festival held in the province of Teramo, Abruzzo, involving several local municipalities each year. The title refers to the search for the "sources"—understood as the authentic identity, traditions, and origins of these places—through a journey that weaves together hiking, anthropology, storytelling, and live music. Promoted by the Consorzio BIM of Teramo and organized by the Gioventù Musicale Italia association in collaboration with the "Gaetano Braga" Conservatory of Teramo, the event visits the towns of Civitella del Tronto, Rocca Santa Maria, Fano Adriano, and Giulianova.

The Fano Adriano stop

The Municipality of Fano Adriano, a small mountain village at the foot of the Gran Sasso d'Italia, hosts one of the most evocative stages of the festival. The day starts with a guided trek leading participants to the Eremo dell'Annunziata, in the area surrounding the village, and concludes with a scenic concert set against the natural backdrop of the Gran Sasso mountain range. The hike is led by an expert local guide.

Myths, storytelling, and music

After the nature walk, participants are immersed in local folklore, focusing in particular on the mazzamarilli—legendary figures of Abruzzo tradition—narrated by actors from the company under the artistic direction of Roberto Di Donato. Each event is accompanied by the music of the Nuovo Laboratorio Ensemble, featuring accordionist Mikhail Gorbunov.

• Where: Fano Adriano (TE), Eremo dell'Annunziata area, province of Teramo, Abruzzo
• Meeting point: 10:30 AM for the guided trek
• Admission: Free
• Format: Trekking + folk storytelling + scenic concert

A project for the Teramo territory

The festival was created to enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the mountain and coastal villages of the Teramo area, fostering a dialogue between popular memory, myths, local legends, and the natural environment. Each stop offers a different itinerary, from the Morricana waterfalls to the trails of the Gran Sasso and the port of Giulianova, offering the public a slow and participatory way to rediscover the heart of Abruzzo.