Piazza Giovanni Giacomini, 63100 Ascoli Piceno AP, Italy (September 2020)

Ascoli Piceno

Nestled between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic coast, Ascoli Piceno is one of central Italy’s most elegant and historically rich cities. Located in the Marche region, near the border with Abruzzo, Ascoli Piceno is renowned for its harmonious architecture, refined urban spaces, and enduring traditions. Built largely from warm-toned travertine stone quarried from the surrounding hills, the city possesses a visual unity that gives it a timeless, almost sculptural beauty.

Ascoli Piceno’s history stretches back to ancient times, with origins predating the Roman Empire. Known as Asculum Picenum, the city played a significant role during the Roman era, particularly during the Social War in the 1st century BCE. Roman engineering and planning still shape the city today, most notably in the layout of streets and the remains of bridges and gates. Over the centuries, Ascoli passed through medieval, papal, and Renaissance rule, each leaving a distinct imprint on its architectural and cultural identity.

At the heart of the city lies Piazza del Popolo, widely considered one of Italy’s most beautiful squares. Framed by elegant arcades, historic palazzi, and the Church of San Francesco, the piazza embodies balance, symmetry, and civic pride. Its travertine paving glows softly in the sunlight, creating a welcoming space that serves as Ascoli’s social and cultural centre. Nearby, Piazza Arringo reflects the city’s religious and political heritage, home to the Cathedral of Sant’Emidio, dedicated to the city’s patron saint and protector against earthquakes.

Ascoli Piceno is deeply connected to its traditions, which remain vibrantly alive today. The Quintana, a medieval jousting tournament held each summer, transforms the city into a living historical stage. Participants dressed in elaborate period costumes parade through the streets, celebrating Ascoli’s noble past and reinforcing a strong sense of community identity. These events are not simply performances for visitors but meaningful expressions of local pride passed down through generations.

The city is also famous for its culinary heritage, most notably olive all’ascolana. These large green olives, stuffed with seasoned meat, breaded, and fried, originated here and are a staple of local cuisine. Beyond this iconic dish, Ascoli’s food culture emphasizes robust flavours, handmade pasta, and regional wines, reflecting the agricultural richness of the surrounding countryside. Historic cafés, particularly those lining Piazza del Popolo, offer ideal settings to experience daily life while enjoying an espresso or aperitivo.

Surrounded by rolling hills, river valleys, and nearby national parks, Ascoli Piceno enjoys a strong connection to nature. The Tronto River flows along the city’s edge, while the Sibillini Mountains provide dramatic backdrops and opportunities for outdoor exploration. This balance between refined urban spaces and natural landscapes adds to Ascoli’s distinctive appeal.

Ascoli Piceno is a city that rewards attention and appreciation. Its beauty is not ostentatious but measured and enduring, revealed through stonework, tradition, and rhythm of daily life. With its rich history, architectural elegance, and deep-rooted cultural identity, Ascoli Piceno stands as one of Italy’s most quietly captivating destinations.

Worth a Visit

Photo Gallery of Walk  – Via Bengasi to Lungo Tronto Bartolomei
Approximately 0.90 km – 0.56 miles

The walk starts in Via Bengasi – Tempietto di Sant’Emidio Rosso, Via Berardo Tucci – Via Berardo Tucci – Via Rigante Adriano – Ponte Romano – Via di Solestà – Via Delle Donne – Piazza Ventidio Basso – Via E Tamburini – Piazza Santa Maria Inter Vinea – Lungo Tronto Emidio Bartolomei – Lungo Tronto Bartolomei – Piazza Giovanni Giacomini – Via Giuseppe Sacconi – Corso Giuseppe Mazzini – Piazza del Popolo – Via Panichi Alessandro – Piazza Roma – Via del Crocifisso – Via Antonio Orsini – Corso Giuseppe Mazzini – Piazza Sant’Agostino