Chieti​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 26 November 2023
​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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Profile
Chieti is a charming town located in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. It serves as the capital of the province of Chieti and holds historical significance dating back to ancient times. ​
History
Chieti's history is deeply rooted in antiquity, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Neolithic period. In ancient times, the region was inhabited by various tribes, including the Samnites and the Marrucini.

The town became a Roman colony known as "Teate Marrucinorum" and flourished during the Roman era. It later witnessed the influence of various kingdoms and rulers, including the Lombards, Normans, and Aragonese. Throughout its history, Chieti has been an important center for culture, trade, and art.
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: 49,139 ​(source: ISTAT 1 January 2022)

​​​​Size: 58 km²

Elevation: 330 metres

Highlights: Cattedrale di San Giustino, Teatro Marrucino

Close by: ​​Pescara, Francavilla al Mare, Montesilvano, Ortona

Recommended stay: Best Western Parco Paglia Hotel

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.
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)

​Chieti  Gallery

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