Ascoli Piceno
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 30 December 2023
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The city of Ascoli Piceno is the capital city of the Province of Ascoli Piceno with a population of 48,169 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 154 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 160 km² and lies 123 kilometres south of Ancona, the regional capital of Marche. The main attraction of Ascoli-Piceno is Piazza del Popolo: a Renaissance square which regularly features in lists of finest piazzas in Italy. Piazza Arringo, 3 minutes' walk away, could justifiably find itself on similar lists had it been in any other city. |
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Sightseeing Ascoli Piceno: Piazza del Popolo
The areas between and around the two squares mentioned above mark the centre of the city and this is where you'll find the best places to eat, drink and shop. Piazza del Popolo is blessed with a series of bars, restaurants and shops under porticoes, while its most prominent building is called Palazzo dei Capitani.
Originally built in the 12th century, the palace somehow survived in 1535 when a rebellion broke out in the city and the main protagonist holed himself up inside the building. The solution was to "smoke him out", which of course led to most of the building's interior being gutted. Thankfully, enough of it survived to allow a successful refurbish; the rebel wasn't quite so lucky however.
The areas between and around the two squares mentioned above mark the centre of the city and this is where you'll find the best places to eat, drink and shop. Piazza del Popolo is blessed with a series of bars, restaurants and shops under porticoes, while its most prominent building is called Palazzo dei Capitani.
Originally built in the 12th century, the palace somehow survived in 1535 when a rebellion broke out in the city and the main protagonist holed himself up inside the building. The solution was to "smoke him out", which of course led to most of the building's interior being gutted. Thankfully, enough of it survived to allow a successful refurbish; the rebel wasn't quite so lucky however.
Piazza Arringo
Ascoli's cathedral can be found on the other square mentioned above; Piazza Arringo. The Baroque cathedral is flanked by a baptistery and the square is also home to two museums: the Museo Archeologico and the Pinacoteca Civica housing Renaissance art. Two further museums of interest in the city are the Galleria d'Arte Contemporanea (Modern Art Gallery), and the Museo dell'Arte Ceramica.
The Duomo (cathedral), is of course the main religious building in the city but two further churches are of great interest: Chiesa di San Francesco on Piazza del Popolo and Chiesa dei Santi Vincenzo e Anastasia on Piazza Basso.
Ascoli's cathedral can be found on the other square mentioned above; Piazza Arringo. The Baroque cathedral is flanked by a baptistery and the square is also home to two museums: the Museo Archeologico and the Pinacoteca Civica housing Renaissance art. Two further museums of interest in the city are the Galleria d'Arte Contemporanea (Modern Art Gallery), and the Museo dell'Arte Ceramica.
The Duomo (cathedral), is of course the main religious building in the city but two further churches are of great interest: Chiesa di San Francesco on Piazza del Popolo and Chiesa dei Santi Vincenzo e Anastasia on Piazza Basso.
Olive Ascolane
It's impossible to talk about Ascoli-Piceno without mentioning its olives. The recipe known as Olive Ascolane is famous throughout Italy where you can buy them as a snack from street-vendors. The olives are stuffed with meat and fried in breadcrumbs, making a delicious and moreish appetiser.
It's impossible to talk about Ascoli-Piceno without mentioning its olives. The recipe known as Olive Ascolane is famous throughout Italy where you can buy them as a snack from street-vendors. The olives are stuffed with meat and fried in breadcrumbs, making a delicious and moreish appetiser.
Comune di Ascoli Piceno
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Province: Ascoli Piceno
Region: Marche Population: 46,085 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2023) Total size: 160 km² Elevation: 154 metres Top sights: Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Arringo Close by: Offida, Acquaviva Picena, San Benedetto del Tronto Recommended hotel: Palazzo dei Mercanti - Dimora & Spa |
Ascoli Piceno Travel
Ascoli-Piceno Stazione, the city's train station, is situated 1.3 kilometres from Piazza del Popolo, a walk of around 15 minutes. From here you can take trains to San Benedetto del Tronto, a popular seaside town, a journey of 41 minutes. Ascoli's city centre is small enough that you can reach all the main sights on foot but there are local buses available to visit the surrounding towns.
Driving in Ascoli can be tricky at times with narrow streets being a prominent feature. Some of the city centre hotels do offer on-site car parks but you do need to take care to avoid infringing the ZTL (Zona di Traffico Limitato), the areas of the city where driving is restricted at certain times of the day. If you've booked a hotel with parking it's worth speaking to them to get a good understanding of what's required to reach their car park in order to avoid any scrapes, either with the law or with the sides of your car.
At least two airports are within striking of Ascoli-Piceno; the closest geographically is Pescara Airport in Abruzzo, an hour and ten minutes (96 km) south of Ascoli. Alternatively, you can use Marche Airport which is situated 130 kilometres north, close to Ancona, just a further 10 minutes drive away compared to Pescara.
Driving in Ascoli can be tricky at times with narrow streets being a prominent feature. Some of the city centre hotels do offer on-site car parks but you do need to take care to avoid infringing the ZTL (Zona di Traffico Limitato), the areas of the city where driving is restricted at certain times of the day. If you've booked a hotel with parking it's worth speaking to them to get a good understanding of what's required to reach their car park in order to avoid any scrapes, either with the law or with the sides of your car.
At least two airports are within striking of Ascoli-Piceno; the closest geographically is Pescara Airport in Abruzzo, an hour and ten minutes (96 km) south of Ascoli. Alternatively, you can use Marche Airport which is situated 130 kilometres north, close to Ancona, just a further 10 minutes drive away compared to Pescara.
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Fly to: Pescara Abruzzo Airport - 1 hour 12 mins by car (96 km)
By train: San Benedetto del Tronto - 41 mins, Ancona - 1 hour 45' |
Ascoli Piceno Gallery
Ascoli Piceno Overview
Profile
Ascoli Piceno, nestled in the Marche region of central Italy, is a city of historical richness and architectural splendor. Known for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance heritage, it offers a captivating blend of art, culture, and cuisine. Its stunning Piazza del Popolo stands as one of Italy's most elegant squares, surrounded by majestic palaces and adorned with a stunning travertine facade.
History
Founded by the Piceni people in the 9th century BC, Ascoli Piceno boasts a rich history influenced by Roman, medieval, and Renaissance periods. Its strategic location along the ancient Via Salaria contributed to its cultural and commercial significance.
Tourist Information
Travel Information
Ascoli Piceno, nestled in the Marche region of central Italy, is a city of historical richness and architectural splendor. Known for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance heritage, it offers a captivating blend of art, culture, and cuisine. Its stunning Piazza del Popolo stands as one of Italy's most elegant squares, surrounded by majestic palaces and adorned with a stunning travertine facade.
History
Founded by the Piceni people in the 9th century BC, Ascoli Piceno boasts a rich history influenced by Roman, medieval, and Renaissance periods. Its strategic location along the ancient Via Salaria contributed to its cultural and commercial significance.
Tourist Information
- Piazza del Popolo: Marvel at the grandeur of this central square, home to architectural gems like the Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo and the Church of San Francesco.
- Historic Center: Stroll through the charming medieval streets, explore the artistic treasures of the Pinacoteca Civica, and admire the intricate details of churches like the Cathedral of Sant'Emidio.
- Cuisine: Savor local delicacies, including "olive all'ascolana" (stuffed olives) and "vincisgrassi" (a type of lasagna), paired with fine Marche wines.
- Ponte Romano: Explore the Roman Bridge, a testament to the city's ancient history, and enjoy the views of the Tronto River.
- Parks and Nature: Discover the natural beauty of the surrounding area, including the nearby Monti Sibillini National Park, ideal for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts.
Travel Information
- Location: Ascoli Piceno is located in the Marche region of central Italy.
- Access: The nearest major airport is Ancona-Falconara Airport (AOI), with train connections to Ascoli Piceno. You can also reach the city by train or bus from major Italian cities.
- Accommodation: Ascoli Piceno offers various accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and charming boutique hotels, often found within historic buildings.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn provide pleasant weather for exploring the city and its surroundings. Summers can be warm, making outdoor activities enjoyable.
- Local Tips: Don't miss the opportunity to participate in the city's vibrant events and festivals, which showcase its cultural heritage, including the historical Quintana tournament.
