Province of Teramo - Geography

Geography

The landscape of the Province of Teramo is somewhat peculiar in that it is dominated almost entirely on the east by a large body of water and on the west by the Apennine Mountains. The province is divided latitudinally by the hills and valleys that begin in the Apennines and run almost to the coast. In addition to the provincial capital, the most populous and important commercial centers include Roseto degli Abruzzi and Giulianova with populations of 24,000 and 22,000 inhabitants respectively. The peaks of the Gran Sasso rise to the west of the Province of Teramo while those of the Monti della Laga dominate its northern border. These two ridges are among the most distinctive and perhaps the most important of the entire Apennine Mountain range. The majestic Gran Sasso rises at its peak, the Corno Grande, to an altitude of 2912 meters and is characterized by steep, and in places virtually inaccessible, gorges. Calderone, the southernmost glacier in Continental European, is found nearby. In contrast to the rugged and isolated Gran Sasso area, the Monti della Laga are characterised by thick forests, shallow gorges, rolling slopes and valleys, and several spectacular waterfalls.

On the eastern portion of the province are the so-called "seven sister" beaches directly adjacent to the Adriatic Sea. These resorts are noted for very fine white sand and their mild and wholesome Mediterranean climates which support a rich flora of palm, pine and oleander trees. Much of the province is hilly and very few large flat plains are to be found. Running from the west to the east are a number of valley streams and rivers which eventually empty into the Adriatic Sea. The Voman is one important river traversing the province and at its source is the large lake, the Lago di Campotosto.