Whether you are in town for a few days or you reside in L’aquila, you are bound to find something of interest to you. L’Aquila is the capital of Abruzzo and has a unique status of being the largest in the rural region with a population of 70,000. Located at the base of one of the tallest mountains in Italy, it is bounded by the Apennine Mountains that extend to the boot of Italy.
This old town was constructed during the medieval era and it was so done under the watchful eyes of the King of Sicily Frederick II who was the Roman Emperor. Due to this reason, L’Aquila retains its status as an important part of History. Its history is founded o several miles of the countryside as well as a special local culture. There is a whole lot to explore in this unique city. Here are a few things to explore in this wonderful city.
Places You Should Check Out In L’Aquila
A visit to L’Aquila will reveal to your unique things such as excellent wines, the unique scenery. There are a few things to see in one day here. For instance, you could check out the bright fountain, or the Castle of L’Aquila, there is also the Costa Masciarelli and the Cathedral of L’Aquila. There are dozens of fun places you could explore on a visit to L’Aquila. Here are a few places you should consider on your next visit.
Lake Of Sinizzo
This lake is a unique contribution of nature to this beautiful city. It derives its source from two sources of drinking water. The unique Lago di Sinizzo is about 120 meters and it is bounded by willows and weeping oaks. It is cited in the San Demetrio de ‘Vestini and is sure a unique choice for those looking to be refreshed from the summer heat in the city.
Stiffe Caves
If you are a lover of history and adventure, then the stiffer caves are the best option for you. With over half a kilometer of walkways that passes through caves that are decorated with stalagmites and stalactites, this site is one you should explore. It is, however, instructive to note that you should put on closed shoes as well as a windbreaker regardless of the season you visit. The caves record a temperature of 10 degrees Celsius all year long.
River Tirino
This river is located in the Capestrano Municipality and is reputed to be the most limpid river in the whole of Europe and derives its supply from rather pure spring waters. You can explore this unique site by canoes and have a total feel of nature on the go.
Castel Del Monte
This is a small village ranked among the most beautiful villages in all of Italy which is why it records a large number of visitors during the summer. It is quite known for the famous night of the witches that holds each year between the 17th and 18th of August. This and other events have a way of boosting the already magical atmosphere in the town.
Rocca Calascio
If you are a lover of nature and don’t mind climbing the highest peaks in your quest for adventure, the Rocca Calascio is the perfect option for you. This is the highest rock in the whole of Italy, and it is cited strategically on the Apennines. It would interest you to note that the cult movie Lady Hawk was filmed within the fortress and its surroundings. Not quite far from the fortress is the historic Romanesque church of Santa Maria Della Peta. It is situated strategically between barren mountains and meadows.
Santo Stefano Sessanio
This village has become a tourist attraction of some sort in the form of a widespread hotel that takes visitors back in time. It is equipped with wool mattresses that are designed using technologies from the past in addition to furniture and blankets that take their origins from days past. It also has a center for rediscovery and studies of the forgotten gastronomic culture.
Basilica di San Bernardino
With a history that dates back to the 15th century, the Basilica di Sa Bernardino is one building that tells a unique story of the difficulties encountered by the city such as its earthquakes. Back in 1703, it was remade using a Baroque style at the end of an earthquake. It was however faced with another earthquake back in 2009 which lead to the collapse of its dome. However, it stands tall today as a beacon of hope for the city with decorations done by Girolamo Centiempo and Ferdinando Mosca.
Museo Nazionale d’Abruzzo
Located in a castle that dates back to the 16th century loaded with a wonderful story to it, this museum is the top choice for tourists and visitors who have a deep value for history. The museum houses several exhibits such as Roman artifacts as well as other sacred historical objects.
Church Santa Giusta
This is one of the numerous medieval buildings located on the streets of L’Aquila. The Church Santa Giusta is one of the oldest buildings in the city and it dates back to the year 1275. It is one of the remnants of the historical roots of the city and is housed inside an elaborate dome which is decorated within using several beautiful and valuable artworks and paintings. If you are looking to explore the history and culture of the city, this is one place you must visit.
Fontana Delle 99 Cannelle
This is, without doubt, one of the structures in the city that has managed to retain its unique architecture as found in the city. This is a long fountain that is made up of 99 streams of cold water that pour out cold water from it. It was constructed to stand for the ninety-nine villages that combined, in the end, to form the city of L’Aquila as we know it today.
What are you waiting for? The city is waiting for you to explore her and what it has to offer. Take a step today and explore L’Aquila!
