A hilltop city in central Italy's Abruzzo region, sitting 749 meters above sea level amid the Apennine Mountains, with 70,000 residents.
Just 90 minutes from Rome, L'Aquila sits in a valley surrounded by the Apennine Mountains. Walk through medieval streets to discover the geometric red and white marble facade of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, climb the towers of the 16th-century Spanish Fort, or watch a performance at the city's symphony orchestra. Students from the local university fill cafes and bars, while skiers head to nearby Campo Imperatore in winter.
Walking the Historic Center
Start your exploration at Quattro Cantoni, where Corso Vittorio Emanuele II intersects with Corso Umberto I. These main streets form L'Aquila's medieval heart, with covered porticoes protecting you from sun and rain. Stone buildings from the 13th to 18th centuries line these streets, where you'll find students chatting in cafes and locals taking their evening walks under arched passages.
Religious Architecture of L'Aquila
The pink and white stone patterns on Santa Maria di Collemaggio's facade catch the eye immediately. Built in 1287-1289, this basilica draws thousands of pilgrims each August 28th for the Perdonanza Celestiniana festival and the opening of the Holy Door. At San Bernardino basilica, you can admire Nicolò Filotesio's Renaissance facade and see the elaborate 15th-century tomb of the saint inside.
Mountain Activities and Climate
The Gran Sasso massif dominates the northeastern skyline, with peaks rising above 2,000 meters. Campo Imperatore and Ovindoli transform into popular ski destinations from December through March, drawing winter sports enthusiasts from Rome and beyond. The high elevation keeps L'Aquila's summers mild, though locals joke about having "eleven cold months and one cool one."
Cultural Life and Museums
Inside the 1534 Spanish Fort, you'll find Roman artifacts and medieval art at the National Museum of Abruzzo. Throughout the year, the University of L'Aquila fills the calendar with academic lectures, concerts, and plays. The state conservatory and fine arts academy add to the mix with regular music performances and art exhibitions across the city.
Local Food and Wine
Look for white truffles and summer scorsone truffles in pasta dishes and meat preparations at restaurants across L'Aquila. Try traditional lamb "incaporchiato" or sample local pork sausages made using traditional recipes. The surrounding province produces Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Trebbiano d'Abruzzo wines, which you can taste in wine bars throughout the historic center.
