Discover Fornace Laterizi

The Sentiero di Monte Ortone starts in Fornace Laterizi and is described as an easy circular hiking trail. If you would like to include a hike in your travel plans, this trail offers a specific starting point. Check the route information and trail conditions before setting off, as they may change.

Landscape and trails in the Euganean Hills

The landscape of Monte Ortone is shaped by a variety of features: the 168-metre-high rhyolite hill lies between Monte Rosso and Colle di San Daniele. A trail on Monte Ortone passes through Mediterranean scrub with heather, strawberry trees and privet. Downy oaks and the first chestnut trees grow near the summit, with flowers appearing in spring. The Grotta di Santa Felicita is the source of one of the highest springs in the Euganean area.

For a longer hike, the Alta Via No. 1 of the Colli Euganei is a different proposition: it is about 40 kilometres long and takes approximately twelve hours to walk. Both figures are estimates; actual walking time in particular may vary depending on conditions. Rocca Pendice, meanwhile, combines nature and climbing history: sport climbing has traditionally taken place on its natural trachyte rock face. Climbing regulations may apply seasonally, so it is advisable to check the current notices in advance.

The ruins of Speronella Castle are also located on Rocca Pendice. Peregrine falcons regularly nest there, and the area is part of a Natura 2000 protected area designated as a Special Protection Area for birds. Those interested in landscapes and views can enjoy an impressive vista of the central Euganean Hills from the viewpoint traditionally known as Salto della Volpe. Teolo lies entirely within the Parco Regionale dei Colli Euganei.

Monasteries, churches and art

Abbazia di Praglia is a Benedictine monastery whose history began around 1100. The complex includes four cloisters, a basilica, an old library, a monumental refectory and an ordinary refectory. As the monastery is still inhabited by monks, it cannot be visited in its entirety. This restriction should be taken into account when planning a visit.

The Anello del Giubileo links the Santuario della Madonna della Salute in Monteortone, the Monastero di San Daniele and Abbazia di Praglia. The Monastero di San Daniele was built for Benedictine monks between 1076 and 1078. A separate trail, the Sentiero del Giubileo, starts at the car park of Abbazia di Praglia and crosses Monte delle Are through a forest mainly characterized by black locusts, chestnuts, hop-hornbeams and oaks.

The Santuario della Madonna della Salute in Monteortone was built in the 15th century. The site is associated with a healing of the soldier Pietro Falco, recorded in 1428; the sanctuary houses an image of the Virgin Mary and attracts numerous pilgrims every year. On Monte Venda, parts of the church, the bell tower and the crypt of a monastery dedicated to Saint John the Baptist remain visible following restoration work.

The Chiesa di Sant'Antonio Abate also tells a story of monastic life: it dates back to 1300 and is a surviving part of a larger Benedictine monastery. In Teolo stands the Palazzetto dei Vicari, a historic building dating from the 16th century. It reflects the importance of this hilltop village in the late Middle Ages and during Venetian rule from the 15th to the 18th century. Medieval frescoes have been uncovered in the Chiesa di San Giorgio; they may date from around the year 1000.

The Museo Dino Formaggio houses about 200 paintings and sculptures by approximately 87 artists. The collection spans the period from the late 19th century to the present day. This offers a choice of cultural attractions, from religious buildings and their history to art from different periods.

Local flavours

The cuisine is also part of Teolo’s character: handmade gnocchi are among its distinctive local products. In Teolo, Schissotto is a rustic bread. These culinary specialties add another perspective on the area to its landscapes and cultural attractions.

Discover more destinations: Masi, Levada, Noventa Padovana, San Giorgio In Bosco, Terradura, Cittadella, Cornoleda, Correzzola

For the main travel overview: Padua.