The Molise coastline is embracing inclusivity with the launch of the "Spiagge Abili" project, aimed at making its beaches accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. This initiative was unveiled at the Montenero di Bisaccia marina, with regional and local officials, associations, and foundations in attendance.
Promoted by the Molise Region in collaboration with the Prime Minister's Office and four coastal municipalities—Montenero di Bisaccia, Termoli, Campomarino, and Petacciato—the project seeks to enhance the accessibility of the shoreline, creating spaces designed to welcome individuals with disabilities.
By this summer, a range of facilities will be available, allowing those with disabilities to enjoy not only the beach but also the sea. Key supporters of the initiative include the Autonomous Agency for Tourism, the Afasev association from Isernia, Village4All—specializing in accessible hospitality—and the Euricse Institute, a research foundation affiliated with the University of Trento.
Completed actions include mapping existing facilities to identify areas needing improvement for obstacle-free access and a training program for tourism operators and local officials. Francesco Roberti, President of the Molise Region, reflected on past successes: "We participated a couple of years ago in a national project that was funded through a unique pathway. We emerged victorious, and today we are realizing our plans to ensure the Molise coast is ready to welcome beach tourism, allowing everyone to enjoy the beach and the beautiful quality of the Molisan waters. At that time, we decided that Montenero di Bisaccia should lead the charge."
The project architect, Fulvio Loreto from Termoli, detailed the planned interventions for the beaches of Termoli, Campomarino, Petacciato, and Montenero di Bisaccia. Innovations will include stable walkways made of recyclable materials, accessible spaces reachable independently, beach wheelchairs for sea access, showers, and various supports to enhance the tourist experience.
The slogan "Molise my Home" was introduced by the Autonomous Agency for Tourism during the project presentation. Remo Di Giandomenico, the extraordinary commissioner of Aast, stated, "Good practices have always been declared, but today we go beyond. Accessibility begins with public structures, and since Molise is a small region, we can implement this comprehensively." Working closely with Montenero's mayor, Simona Contucci, was Termoli's councilor Silvana Ciciola, who remarked, "Today is an important day. Our singular goal is inclusive tourism for enjoying the sea and beaches without barriers. This is a step forward for all the cities along our coast, especially for Termoli."