Vasto, Coastal commune in Province of Chieti, Italy
Vasto is a commune in the Province of Chieti that occupies a hilltop at 138 meters elevation, with streets descending toward the Adriatic Sea and golden sand beaches below. The old center consists of narrow lanes with pale stone houses, while newer quarters run along the shoreline.
The settlement began as Histonium, a Roman municipium, following legends of Greek hero Diomedes founding it in the 13th century BC. During medieval times, the town passed through several noble families before joining the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century.
The Civic Archaeological Museum displays regional artifacts and artwork collections within the neapolitan-style Palazzo d'Avalos and its gardens. Workshops in the old streets produce ceramics and handwoven textiles following traditional methods passed down through generations.
Travelers reach the town via the A14 motorway exits at Vasto Nord or Sud, with regular train connections to Pescara running throughout the day. The beaches lie roughly 15 minutes on foot from the hilltop center and are accessible by stairs or winding roads.
The protected nature reserve of Punta d'Erca preserves traditional wooden fishing platforms called trabocchi that extend over the Adriatic waters. These structures once allowed fishing without boats and are now partly used as restaurants or viewing points.
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