Located at the junction of the Tronto and Castellano rivers, Ascoli Piceno is a beautifully preserved town in the Marche region of central Italy. It was founded prior to the establishment of Rome on the Via Salaria, an ancient road used by the Sabines to fetch salt from the mouth of the River Tiber. It was ruled by the Ostrogoths, the Lombards and the Franks before becoming part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.
Things to do in Ascoli Piceno
In the heart of Ascoli Piceno is the Piazza del Popolo, a sprawling square that is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Marvel at its travertine paving and the magnificent Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo, which was built in the 13th century atop Roman ruins. Also overlooking the Piazza del Popolo is the Loggia dei Mercanti and the Church of San Francesco.
Topped by a soaring tower is the Cathedral of St. Emidio, which was built in the 16th century. It houses the columned crypt of the town’s patron saint and a fine set of elaborate mosaics. A highlight of the Cappella del Sacramento is the three-section “Polyptych of Saint Emidio” painted in 1473 by Carlo Crivelli.
Art enthusiasts can visit the Civic Picture Gallery, which is elaborately decorated with Murano glass chandeliers. It houses an outstanding collection of European paintings, including works by Titian, Guido Reni and Carlo Crivelli. Also, don’t miss the Museum of Ceramics, which is located adjacent to the Romanesque-style Church of Saint Thomas.
Getting around Ascoli Piceno
Ascoli Piceno is around an hour’s drive from Pescara and Abruzzo Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Ascoli Piceno railway station and buses travel throughout the town. The centre of Ascoli Piceno can easily be explored on foot.