A WINDOW ONTO THE ADRIATIC: THE PORT OF ORTONA

Overlooking one of the most picturesque stretches of the central Adriatic, the port of Ortona has been a landmark for maritime traffic and connections between East and West for centuries. Its origins date back to ancient times: in the Roman era, in the 3rd century BC, the port experienced a period of strong growth, establishing itself as an active commercial port along the Adriatic routes. Over the centuries, it has undergone profound transformations, including the devastation of the Second World War, before being reborn and regaining a strategic role in the port landscape of central Italy.

Nestled between the city and the open sea, the port of Ortona is distinguished by the presence of large breakwaters that delimit a vast protected harbour basin, capable of accommodating various types of ships and boats.

The quays reflect the multifunctional nature of the port and form a port area divided into distinct but closely integrated spaces: the commercial port, the Mandracchio dedicated to the fishing fleet, the marina for pleasure boats and the service areas, striking a balance between operational efficiency and relations with the city.

Today, the port of Ortona is a strategic hub for the regional economy. It specialises in the handling of general cargo and bulk goods: cereals, refined petroleum products, metallurgical products and raw minerals regularly pass through its quays.

Its strategic location in relation to the industrial and manufacturing areas of central Italy, combined with an efficient logistics system, is one of the port’s main strengths, thanks to its direct connections to the road network, its proximity to Abruzzo Airport and its rail link to the Adriatic line.

In addition to its commercial dimension, the port retains a strong social and identity value. A still active fishing fleet and a lively marina, which hosts numerous pleasure boats, contribute to making the waterfront a lively and popular space, deeply linked to the daily life of the people of Ortona.

From the port, the view naturally opens up onto the city of Ortona, dominated by the profile of the Aragonese Castle and the historic district of Terravecchia, which slopes down towards the sea. Continuing along the coast, the landscape changes and becomes increasingly spectacular: limestone cliffs, hidden coves and clear waters accompany you to the famous Costa dei Trabocchi, one of the symbolic places of the Abruzzo coast. Here, the ancient fishing machines suspended over the water tell of a deep connection between man and the sea, now enhanced by cycle paths, coastal villages and a tourist offering that focuses on sustainability and the beauty of the natural landscape.