City walls of L'Aquila

The city walls of L'Aquila extend across the hilltop, forming a complete perimeter around the historic center with multiple entrance gates and observation points.

Construction of the defensive walls began in 1270 under Frederick II and reached completion in 1316, establishing L'Aquila as a strategic stronghold in central Italy.

The walls reflect medieval military architecture with their stone construction, watchtowers, and gates that controlled access to this important trading center for wool and saffron.

Visitors can walk along sections of the preserved walls, accessing various parts of the historic center through original gates that remain functional today.

The walls incorporated ninety-nine water spouts into their structure, corresponding to the ninety-nine villages that united to form L'Aquila in the 13th century.

Location: L’Aquila

Inception: 1270

GPS coordinates: 42.35582,13.38897

Latest update: March 4, 2025 04:42