A visit to Sulmona
if you click on links provided, we may receive a commision
The City of Love in the heart of Abruzzo
I've always been drawn to charming Italian towns off the beaten path, and Sulmona has captured my heart like no other. Nestled in the Abruzzo region, this picturesque gem offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Sulmona's unique character and warm hospitality make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience away from crowded tourist hotspots. As I explore Sulmona's winding streets and vibrant piazzas, I'm constantly amazed by the town's rich heritage and hidden treasures. From its stunning architecture to its mouthwatering local specialties, Sulmona has just enough restaurants to complete your stay. I'm excited to share my top five reasons why you should consider visiting and staying in Sulmona, a true Italian gem that deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.
Sulmona is nestled in the Peligna Valley, formed by the convergence of the Vella and Gizio rivers, and sits gracefully at the base of the Maiella massif. A defining feature of its landscape is the Apennine road, which extends from L'Aquila to Roccaraso and Isernia. To truly appreciate the town, a stroll along Corso Ovidio is essential, honoring the legacy of Ovid, Sulmona's most illustrious son. This thoroughfare is flanked by churches and historic edifices that evoke a sense of a city steeped in a rich past, reaching back to the Middle Ages. The Annunziata complex stands as the most significant monument, comprising an 18th-century church and a Gothic-Renaissance palace that hosts the Civic and Costume Museums.
Chiesa di San Francesco della Scarpa
The church of San Francesco della Scarpa was first mentioned in 1241, when it was already built. In 1290, King Charles II of Anjou ordered it to be rebuilt and enlarged to become the most important medieval Franciscan church in Abruzzo. The renovated building featured intricate Gothic designs. The long layout included three naves topped with cross vaults and polygonal apses, with arches connecting the walls throughout the presbytery.
The present church does not match that of the Angevin period as it largely collapsed following several earthquakes, and was subjected to an 18th century restoration.
The earthquake of 1456 weakened the structure, but the 1706 earthquake caused the most damage. The front collapsed, and the rose window along with the internal structures of the three naves were destroyed.
The bell tower and the entire presbytery were ruined, of which now only a part of the perimeter of the polygonal apse remains, plus the monumental side entrance overlooking Corso Ovidio. These have remained isolated from the main body of the new church, which was rebuilt smaller and with a nave .
While the Italians indulge in an afternoon nap, I seize the opportunity for a photograph.
Shops elegantly line the picturesque piazza that gracefully surrounds the magnificent Aqueduct, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with both local charm and historical significance.
Adjacent to the majestic Fontana del Vecchio is the impressive and elongated Swabian aqueduct, which artfully frames the expansive urban space of Piazza Garibaldi to the west, creating a picturesque backdrop that enhances the charm of this bustling square.
Overlooking one of the largest piazzas in all of Italy, B&B Sei Stelle is located in one of Sulmona's most historic properties. Each spacious guest room has a unique ambiance and is thoughtfully designed for comfort and quiet relaxation.
Enjoy views of the ancient Aqueduct from one of many rooms at B&B Sei Stelle
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
The Fountain of the Old Man
This fountain which collected the waters at the southern entrance of the city, next to the oldest part of the city walls, probably already existed before 1474, when the captain of the city, Polidoro Tiberti from Cesena, ordered its rebuilding in the new Renaissance style.
The aqueduct, located near Piazza Garibaldi, is one of the largest in Southern Italy, built in 1256 during King Manfred of Swabia's reign, as noted on the inaugural stone. It symbolizes Sulmona's economic, demographic, and cultural growth, fostered by Frederick II, who valued the town's importance. The aqueduct served a bustling Sulmona, home to the “Giustizierato” and one of the seven annual fairs established by Frederick II to promote trade. Rich in freshwater, as noted by Ovid, the area had an advanced irrigation system in Roman times, suggesting the aqueduct follows an earlier Roman pipeline. The thirteenth-century completion of the aqueduct reflects the townspeople's entrepreneurial spirit, captured in the inscription celebrating it as a communal achievement: "Sulmontinorum laus est."
Over a century of Confetti
Sulmona is famous for its Confetti. These almond-coated candies from Sulmona are the finest confetti in the world. The process of removing the almond skin before applying the sugary coating was perfected here. Italians use confetti for celebrations; no wedding, baptism, or anniversary is complete without them.
Sulmona Joust
The event, which consists of the historical parade and the Giostra jousting competition, sees a succession of moments of great spectacle and intense emotion.
Biffi's Cellar
Biffi’s Cellar is a restaurant and wine bar with a wine cellar atmosphere showcasing unique rooms and decor and a wine cellar dining room. Located in a beautiful building on the outskirts of the historic center. Summer outside dining provides romantic lighting.
Genuine food and cooked according to local tradition, all accompanied by an excellent choice of wines.
Address: Via Marco Barbato, 1
Phone: +39 0864 32025
