An Easter Sunday in Italy

Today we spent the whole day riding along a seaside cycle path — something quite exceptional. We left the Abruzzo region and entered Marche. For cycling enthusiasts, we recommend this area: part of the route follows the Adriatic Cycle Route (Ciclovia Adriatica 6). It’s possible to ride for several days almost entirely on dedicated bike paths, passing seaside resorts with the deep blue of the Adriatic always nearby. Quite a treat.

Cycling gives us a small glimpse into the everyday challenges faced by people in wheelchairs. And in that respect, there’s still real progress to be made when it comes to accessibility — in cities, on sidewalks, in hotels, and in train stations…

Easter is a very important celebration in Italy, almost as significant as Christmas. It was delightful to observe the rhythm of the day from our bikes. In the morning, we watched elegantly dressed people stopping by pastry shops to pick up beautifully wrapped cakes, then strolling through town in lively groups — with strollers, rollerbladers, joggers, and families gathering outside restaurants, greeting each other with warm embraces. We had to weave our way through the crowds, ringing our bells constantly.

Between 2 and 5 p.m., we felt as if we had the world to ourselves — everyone was at home enjoying long Sunday meals with family, and the streets were completely quiet. Then, around 5 p.m., people reappeared, drifting back out for relaxed walks along the sea, chatting animatedly — all dressed in their slightly flamboyant Italian style.

Easter here is truly a moment of togetherness, celebrated by people of all generations.