L'Aquila Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the capital of Abruzzo
Table of Contents
L'Aquila
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Latest page update: 21 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Any introduction to the capital city of Abruzzo, L'Aquila is incomplete without mention of the huge earthquake it suffered on 6th April 2009.
The earthquake, measuring 5.8 on the Richter scale destroyed much of the city centre which at the time of writing (2019), still resembles a building site. |
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Discover L'Aquila
The landscape is one of cranes and construction as the city attempts to recover from its devastation. Progress is slow but gradually there are signs of recovery with the city's main Cathedral now open and one of the principal attractions pre-earthquake, the Fontana delle 99 Cannelle largely unscathed by the disaster.
The number 99 in the name of the fountain is very relevant. When the city was founded in the 13th century, legend has it that Frederick II, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, created the city from 99 surrounding villages. The fountain is partly named to represent those villages but furthermore, upon foundation of the city, each of those villages had its own area in the city complete with a church and a piazza.
The careful work that continues in l'Aquila is to be admired and is aimed at creating a brighter future for this important city. We all hope that with time, l'Aquila can be restored to its former glories and can once again show off its history to new visitors.
The number 99 in the name of the fountain is very relevant. When the city was founded in the 13th century, legend has it that Frederick II, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, created the city from 99 surrounding villages. The fountain is partly named to represent those villages but furthermore, upon foundation of the city, each of those villages had its own area in the city complete with a church and a piazza.
The careful work that continues in l'Aquila is to be admired and is aimed at creating a brighter future for this important city. We all hope that with time, l'Aquila can be restored to its former glories and can once again show off its history to new visitors.
History
L'Aquila's history dates back to ancient times, but the town truly flourished during the Middle Ages when it was founded in 1254 by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. The city's name, "L'Aquila," means "The Eagle," and it reflects the emblem of the emperor's royal house. L'Aquila was strategically located on the trade route between Rome and the Adriatic Sea, which contributed to its growth and prosperity.
Over the centuries, the town witnessed periods of prosperity and challenges, including earthquakes and invasions. Notably, the devastating earthquake of 2009 caused significant damage to L'Aquila's historical center, leading to extensive reconstruction efforts to restore its landmarks and cultural heritage.
Over the centuries, the town witnessed periods of prosperity and challenges, including earthquakes and invasions. Notably, the devastating earthquake of 2009 caused significant damage to L'Aquila's historical center, leading to extensive reconstruction efforts to restore its landmarks and cultural heritage.
Things to Do
Things to Do in L'Aquila
- Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio is a striking example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture, featuring a distinctive pink-and-white stone façade. Founded in 1288, it was the site of the first Jubilee in history, declared by Pope Celestine V. The basilica was heavily damaged in the 2009 earthquake but has since been restored.
- Fontana delle 99 Cannelle is one of L’Aquila’s most iconic monuments, built in 1272 with water spouting from ninety-nine carved stone masks. Each spout is said to represent one of the original villages that founded the city. The fountain is set within a quiet square near the river and is surrounded by stone walls and trees.
- Forte Spagnolo (Spanish Fort) is a 16th-century fortress built by the Spanish to assert control over the city, featuring thick walls, bastions, and a wide moat. Though currently undergoing restoration, its exterior can be visited, and it houses the Museo Nazionale d’Abruzzo. The fortress overlooks the modern city and nearby mountains.
- Centro Storico di L’Aquila includes elegant palazzi, narrow streets, and baroque churches, many of which have been carefully restored following the earthquake. The area is walkable and includes notable buildings like Palazzo dell’Emiciclo and Piazza Duomo. Cafés, bookshops, and small artisan shops are dotted throughout the centre.
- Guided tour of the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park from L’Aquila offers access to mountain trails, alpine meadows, and traditional villages. Excursions include hiking, wildlife observation, or visits to high-altitude viewpoints such as Campo Imperatore. Tours are available year-round and vary in difficulty and focus.
L'Aquila Tours and Activities
Comune di L'Aquila
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Province: L'Aquila
Region: capital of Abruzzo Population: 69,902 (in 2024 - source) Size: 474 km² Elevation: 714 metres Highlights: Fontana delle 99 Cannelle, L'Aquila Cathedral Close by: Gran Sasso & Monti della Laga National Park Main train station: Stazione dell'Aquila (1.4 km from centre) Fly to: Pescara Abruzzo International Airport (122 km) |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in L'Aquila
- Hotel Federico II (Located in L'Aquila centre, 1 km from the historical centre.) Set in a central location, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding town and the Gran Sasso mountains. The property features a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, a bar, and a wellness centre. Guests appreciate the central location, excellent service, and proximity to local attractions. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
- B&B Il Castello (Located 2 km from L'Aquila centre.) This charming B&B offers a relaxing stay with views of the surrounding countryside and the mountains. The property includes well-appointed rooms, a garden, and a terrace for guests to unwind. Visitors often mention the warm hospitality, tranquil environment, and the delicious homemade breakfast. Price Guide: €€ (affordable)
- Hotel Amiternum (Located 3 km from L'Aquila centre, near the historical centre.) Set in a scenic location, this hotel offers modern rooms with views of the mountains. The property features a restaurant with local dishes, a bar, and a wellness centre. Guests enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, excellent service, and the proximity to local attractions. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Il Pino (Located 5 km from L'Aquila centre.) Located in the countryside, this agriturismo offers an authentic rural experience with stunning views of the surrounding hills and Gran Sasso. The property features rustic rooms, a restaurant serving locally sourced dishes, and a large garden. Guests appreciate the peaceful surroundings, fresh produce, and the welcoming hosts. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
- Residenza La Montagna (Located 4 km from L'Aquila centre.) This residence offers self-catering apartments with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The property includes a garden, an outdoor pool, and a terrace for guests to relax. Visitors enjoy the privacy and comfort of the apartments, the peaceful setting, and the ideal location for exploring the region. Price Guide: €€€ (mid-range)
