Chieti
Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The city of Chieti is the capital city of the Province of Chieti with a population of 50,606 inhabitants.
It stands at an elevation of 330 metres above sea level and lies around 95 kilometres east of L'Aquila, the regional capital of Abruzzo. At the centre of Chieti is its main square, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II which is the location of its main sight: the Cattedrale di San Giustino. |
Other places of interest in the city centre include the Teatro Marrucino and the Civitella Archaeological Museum. The majority of shops and restaurants are situated on Corso Marrucino and Via Asinio Pollione which leads up to the cathedral.
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Chieti • Abruzzo • Historic Town and Provincial Capital
Chieti is a historic city located in the province of Chieti, in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. Situated on a hill overlooking the Pescara Valley, it offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and is just a short distance from the Adriatic coast. The city is one of the oldest in Italy, with a rich history that dates back to Roman times, and it is known for its blend of ancient landmarks and modern amenities.
Chieti is home to several important historical sites, including the Roman theatre, the Arch of Trajan, and the Museum of Archaeology, which houses a significant collection of ancient artefacts. The city’s charming old town is filled with narrow streets, picturesque squares, and a mix of medieval and Renaissance buildings, reflecting its long cultural heritage. Chieti also offers a variety of local shops, cafés, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional Abruzzese cuisine.
Nearby, the town of Pescara, with its lively seafront and cultural attractions, is easily accessible, offering a more urban atmosphere. To the west, the Majella National Park provides stunning mountain landscapes and outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching. The town of Lanciano, known for its medieval buildings and religious significance, is also a short drive away. Chieti, with its rich history, scenic views, and proximity to both natural and coastal attractions, is a central point for exploring the diverse beauty of the Abruzzo region.
Chieti is home to several important historical sites, including the Roman theatre, the Arch of Trajan, and the Museum of Archaeology, which houses a significant collection of ancient artefacts. The city’s charming old town is filled with narrow streets, picturesque squares, and a mix of medieval and Renaissance buildings, reflecting its long cultural heritage. Chieti also offers a variety of local shops, cafés, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional Abruzzese cuisine.
Nearby, the town of Pescara, with its lively seafront and cultural attractions, is easily accessible, offering a more urban atmosphere. To the west, the Majella National Park provides stunning mountain landscapes and outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching. The town of Lanciano, known for its medieval buildings and religious significance, is also a short drive away. Chieti, with its rich history, scenic views, and proximity to both natural and coastal attractions, is a central point for exploring the diverse beauty of the Abruzzo region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Chieti Cathedral: The Cathedral of San Giustino, dating back to the 9th century, is a prominent religious landmark in the town. The cathedral showcases a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic elements.
- Museums: Chieti boasts several museums, including the National Archaeological Museum, which houses a valuable collection of artifacts from ancient times, and the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art, showcasing religious artworks.
- Historical Centre: The town's historical centre is a delightful area to explore, with narrow medieval streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. The Corso Marrucino is a popular street for strolling and shopping.
- Teatro Marrucino: Theater enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Teatro Marrucino, an impressive 19th-century opera house known for its excellent acoustics and beautiful interior.
- Church of San Francesco al Corso: This church is an architectural gem, featuring an ornate Baroque facade and stunning interior decorations.
- Panoramic Views: Chieti is situated on a hill, offering visitors panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic Sea in the distance.
- Festivals and Events: Throughout the year, Chieti hosts various festivals and events, including religious processions, cultural celebrations, and music festivals.
- Local Cuisine: Visitors can savor traditional Abruzzese dishes in the town's restaurants, including hearty pasta dishes, roasted meats, and delicious sweets.
Comune di Chieti
Province: Chieti
Region: Abruzzo Population: 48,585 (in 2024 - source) Size: 58 km² Elevation: 330 metres Highlights: Cattedrale di San Giustino, Teatro Marrucino Close by: Pescara, Francavilla al Mare, Montesilvano, Ortona |
My recommended accommodation options for Chieti:
- Best Western Hotel Parco Paglia Located in Chieti Scalo, this modern hotel offers contemporary rooms equipped with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Guests appreciate the complimentary breakfast buffet and the convenient access to public transportation, making it suitable for both business and leisure travellers. €€ (mid-range)
- Antico Borgo Chieti Situated in the historic centre of Chieti, this charming bed and breakfast features rooms with classic décor and modern amenities. Visitors enjoy the proximity to local attractions, shops, and restaurants, as well as the personalised service provided by the hosts. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Civico35 Located near the city centre, this bed and breakfast offers well-appointed rooms with contemporary furnishings. Guests value the warm hospitality, the hearty breakfast options, and the short walk to Chieti's main sights and eateries. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Iacone Situated in Chieti Scalo, this hotel provides comfortable rooms with balconies, an on-site restaurant, and free parking. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff, the convenient location near shopping centres, and the easy access to major roadways. €€ (mid-range)
- Nuovo Albergo Located close to Chieti's train station, this hotel offers simple yet comfortable rooms, an in-house restaurant, and complimentary breakfast. Guests enjoy the strategic location for travel connections and the attentive service from the staff. €€ (mid-range)
Chieti Gallery
Chieti Travel
Using public transport you can take a direct train to Rome with a journey time of 3 hours and 9 minutes or if you drive, the same journey is significantly faster: around two hours and ten minutes. Also by car you can reach the fellow provincial capitals of L'Aquila in 1 hour and 21 minutes (95 km), Pescara in 20 minutes (18 km) and Teramo in an hour, a journey of 76 kilometres.
Chieti's transport system includes local buses while the main train station, simply called Stazione di Chieti, is situated four kilometres outside the city, a taxi ride of just over 10 minutes. The most convenient airport for Chieti is Pescara Abruzzo International Airport which is just ten kilometres away and a journey time of around 15 minutes by taxi. Nearby places of interest include the city of Pescara and the seaside towns of Francavilla al Mare, Montesilvano and Ortona.
Chieti's transport system includes local buses while the main train station, simply called Stazione di Chieti, is situated four kilometres outside the city, a taxi ride of just over 10 minutes. The most convenient airport for Chieti is Pescara Abruzzo International Airport which is just ten kilometres away and a journey time of around 15 minutes by taxi. Nearby places of interest include the city of Pescara and the seaside towns of Francavilla al Mare, Montesilvano and Ortona.
Public transport: local buses, Stazione di Chieti (4 km from centre)
By train: Rome - 3 hours and 9 minutes |
By car: L'Aquila - 1 hr 21 mins, Pescara - 20 mins, Teramo - 1 hour
Fly to: Pescara Abruzzo International Airport (10 km) |