L'Aquila, Medieval city in Abruzzo region, Italy.
Description
L'Aquila is a provincial capital in Abruzzo, set among mountain ranges at around 700 meters (2,300 feet) elevation. The old town displays Renaissance and Baroque facades along rectangular squares connected by cobblestone lanes.
History
The town was founded in the 13th century as an alliance of neighboring villages to create a shared defensive line. By the 16th century it belonged to the Spanish sphere of influence and received a fortress on the highest hill.
Culture
The name means "The Eagle" and refers to the heraldic bird that appears on squares and facades throughout the center. Many churches open directly onto paved streets, where locals stop to light candles on their way to work in the morning.
Practical
The terrain is hilly, so comfortable shoes help when exploring the steep lanes and staircases. Many buildings underwent renovation after an earthquake in 2009, so some areas are still surrounded by scaffolding.
Did you know?
A central square holds an underground chapel from the 13th century, reached by a narrow staircase. Visitors often notice the quietness in the side streets, even on weekends.
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The Abruzzes stretch between the peaks of the Apennines and the Adriatic Sea. The landscape changes from high mountains to sandy beaches in a few miles. This part of Italy has three parks where hikers and skiers walk the paths in the Gran Sasso and Majella. Along the coast, old fishing platforms...
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