Thirteen centuries of history lie within the Area archeologica di San Vittorino: the archaeological site spans imperial-era domus and early Christian baptisteries, a large Lombard cathedral and the Swabian period. Its different historical layers make L’Aquila a destination for anyone who enjoys seeing how different eras meet in one place.
Discover history and architecture
The Basilica di San Bernardino also tells a long story: it was built in the second half of the 15th century to preserve and honour the body of Saint Bernardino, who died in L’Aquila in 1444. The Renaissance façade was created by Nicola Filotesio, known as Cola dell’Amatrice, and completed in 1542. In the central nave, a carved and gilded wooden ceiling spans the space. It was completed in 1724, and three paintings were added in 1732–1733. The basilica offers a chance to see the different stages of its construction and decoration.
The Chiesa di Santa Maria del Suffragio was built after the 1703 earthquake to commemorate its victims. The Santuario della Madonna d’Appari has a different setting: the sanctuary was built between the 13th and 14th centuries, nestled between rocks and the Raiale stream. Nearby are outdoor climbing walls used for free climbing. If you are interested, check local conditions before climbing.
Tradition, art and museums
The Perdonanza Celestiniana combines a historic foundation with an annual celebration. Pope Celestine V established it in 1294. During the Perdonanza, the Holy Door of the Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio is opened every year on the evening of 28 August and closed again 24 hours later, on the evening of 29 August. Visitors can take part on 28 and 29 August; check the current event programme before travelling.
The MAXXI L’Aquila, a laboratory for artistic and cultural production, is housed in Palazzo Ardinghelli. It brings together MAXXI collections of art, architecture and photography with temporary exhibitions, in-depth programmes and educational projects. The exhibitions change over time. The Palazzo’s courtyard serves as a public space open to the city. The red concert hall of the Auditorium del Parco is another dedicated cultural venue, with seating for around 250 people.
The interactive Museo del Legno explores another set of themes: the forest, traditional crafts and wood; the former production of charcoal is also documented there. During restoration work after the earthquake, several frescoes were uncovered in the Chiesa di San Pietro Apostolo, including a large early 15th-century Crucifixion fresco. In December 2025, it was reported that a significant part of the Museo Nazionale d’Abruzzo’s collections had returned to their former location with a modern presentation. Before visiting, check the current visitor arrangements, which may be temporary.
Between the city and the countryside
The options for getting around also vary. The Fontana delle 99 Cannelle is open to visitors at all times; checking current local notices can help with planning. The Forte Spagnolo is currently closed for reconstruction. However, visitors can walk around its exterior and view the architecture from outside. Check the latest access information before your visit.
In the Riserva naturale del Vetoio, the Vetoio River forms a small lake where grey herons breed. For sports enthusiasts, San Donato Golf offers lessons with certified instructors, both for experienced golfers and for those just starting out. As course conditions can change, it is worth checking for current information in advance.
A bicycle-sharing system with electric-assist bicycles is available at several strategic points for getting around L’Aquila. Check current availability and locations when planning your trip. Gran Sasso can be reached from L’Aquila by car or bus; check the relevant connections before setting off. This allows you to consider the city and a possible trip into the mountains as separate parts of your plans.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Casentino, Castel Del Monte, Corfinio, Sulmona, Scanzano, Santo Stefano Di Sessanio, Rocca Pia, Roccacasale, Pescasseroli, Meta, Celano, Castel Di Sangro, Rivisondoli, Sassa, Roccaraso, San Benedetto In Perillis, Capitignano, Gioia Dei Marsi, Rocca Di Mezzo, Ovindoli, Balsorano, Scanno, Bagno, Pettorano Sul Gizio, Barisciano, Barrea, Pescocostanzo, Avezzano, Monticchio, Collepietro, Scurcola Marsicana, Cappadocia, Barete, Fontecchio, Pacentro, Pratola Peligna, Opi, Foce, Lucoli Alto, Alfedena, Cansano, Pescina, Calascio, Aielli, Rocca Di Cambio, Gagliano Aterno, Introdacqua, Ateleta, Campo Di Giove, Assergi, Tagliacozzo, Camarda, Castelvecchio Subequo, Mascioni, Capistrello, Raiano, Pianelle, Ofena, Carapelle Calvisio, Castelvecchio Calvisio, Poggio Picenze, Magliano De' Marsi, Civita D'antino, Cagnano Amiterno, Navelli, San Demetrio Ne' Vestini, Campotosto, Bisegna, Civitella Alfedena, Lecce Nei Marsi, Paganica, L’Aquila, Preturo, Scontrone, Pagliare, Trasacco, Villetta Barrea, Lucoli, San Pio delle Camere, Tempera, Vittorito, Villavallelonga, Rovere, Sant'Eusanio Forconese, Ortona dei Marsi, Montereale, Santi, Collarmele, Villalago, Cocullo, Coppito, Colle Farelli, Anversa degli Abruzzi, Morino, Verrecchie, Collettara, Spineta, Capestrano, Massa D'albe, Sant'Elia, Pietransieri, Carsoli, Balsorano Nuovo, San Giovanni Valle Roveto Superiore, Stiffe, Cerchio, Collebrincioni, Prezza.
For the broader travel overview: Abruzzo.
