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There are an array of things to do in Italy, with Ascoli Piceno sharing quite a few of those!
Ascoli Piceno, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy, is a veritable treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
From wandering through them winding alleys of its medieval center to indulging in its sumptuous local cuisine, Ascoli Piceno offers a feast for the senses and an opportunity to bask in the enchanting charm of this historic city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ascoli Piceno:
1. Piazza del Popolo
A stunning public square in the historic center of Ascoli Piceno, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful fountains, buildings, and monuments that surround the square, including the Church of San Francesco and the Palazzo dei Capitani.
Take a stroll through the nearby streets and experience the charming atmosphere of the medieval town.
Don’t miss: The Fontana dei Leoni (Fountain of the Lions), featuring four marble lions and a large basin. It’s a great spot for taking photos and people watching.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the evening hours when the lights illuminating the square and surrounding buildings create a magical ambiance. Grab a gelato from a nearby vendor and enjoy the view.
2. Cattedrale di Sant’Emidio
Cattedrale di Sant’Emidio is a beautiful Romanesque-Gothic cathedral located in the historic center of Ascoli Piceno, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the cathedral’s stunning architecture, including the impressive rose window, Gothic portal, and multiple chapels. The interior is adorned with frescoes, religious art, and a beautiful 18th-century organ.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the bell tower for panoramic views of Ascoli Piceno’s historic district. Also, be sure to admire the cathedral’s impressive facade, which features intricate statues and carvings.
Insider travel tips: – Check the cathedral’s schedule before visiting, as it may be closed for religious services or events.
3. Ponte di Cecco
Ponte di Cecco is a picturesque medieval bridge located in the town of Ascoli Piceno in central Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a stroll on the bridge and enjoy the stunning views of the Tronto River and the surrounding hills.
The bridge is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to capture the reflection of the bridge on the river during sunset. It’s a truly breathtaking sight!
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and to fully appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the bridge and the surrounding area.
4. Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo
Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo is a historic palace located in the city of Ascoli Piceno in the Marche region of Italy.
What to see or do: The palace is a popular tourist attraction and houses a civic museum that showcases the history of the city. Visitors can explore the various rooms and galleries of the palace that have been preserved from different periods of history.
The architecture of the palace is particularly noteworthy, with impressive Gothic and Renaissance elements.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to admire the beautiful frescoes and paintings on the walls of the palace, which offer a glimpse into the cultural and artistic heritage of the region.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit the palace with a guide who can provide a detailed insight into its history and architecture.
The best time to visit is during the summer months when the palace hosts a range of cultural events and performances.
It’s also advisable to wear comfortable shoes as there are a lot of stairs to climb within the palace.
5. Chiesa di San Francesco
Chiesa di San Francesco is a beautiful church located in the heart of Ascoli Piceno, Italy. It was built in the 13th century and is known for its stunning Gothic architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors to Chiesa di San Francesco can admire the beautiful facade of the church, which features intricate sculptures and decorations. Inside, you can find some impressive works of art, including frescoes by local artist, Cola dell’Amatrice.
The church also houses a museum with a rich collection of religious artifacts and art pieces.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the bell tower for incredible views of Ascoli Piceno and the surrounding area.
Also, take a moment to appreciate the serenity and peacefulness of the church, which provides a welcome escape from the bustling city.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in art and history, consider hiring a local guide to provide you with a more detailed tour of the church and museum.
Additionally, the church is often used for concerts and cultural events, so check the schedule before you go to see if there are any performances during your visit.
Finally, plan to visit the nearby Piazza del Popolo, which is only a short walk from the church and is a must-see attraction in Ascoli Piceno.
6. Fontana delle 99 cannelle
A historical fountain located in Ascoli Piceno, Italy.
What to see or do: The fountain is a unique sight to see itself, as it boasts ninety-nine stone carved lion heads that spurt water into a long basin below.
Visitors can also walk around the surrounding area which is rich in history and see the other nearby attractions.
Don’t miss: The annual festival called la Quintana, which is held in Ascoli Piceno every August.
It is a medieval jousting competition that has been held for over 600 years and is a fascinating spectacle to witness.
Insider travel tips: To best appreciate the intricacies of the fountain, it is recommended to visit it with a guide. The guides for the fountain are available from the local tourist office.
Additionally, the best time to see the fountain is in the morning when the sunlight illuminates the lion heads and enhances its beauty.
7. Museo Civico
Museo Civico is a museum in Ascoli Piceno, Italy that houses a rich collection of local artifacts and art.
What to see or do: Visitors to Museo Civico can admire exhibits that showcase the history and art of Ascoli Piceno and its surrounding areas. The museum displays archaeological finds, paintings, sculptures, and other valuable pieces that span from the prehistoric to the modern era.
Don’t miss: The museum’s most exceptional piece is an ancient bronze statue called “L’Arringatore.” Also, check out the impressive medieval paintings and the Renaissance frescoes that adorn the walls of the museum.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in the heart of the historic center of Ascoli Piceno, so take the time to explore the nearby streets.
8. Teatro Ventidio Basso
Teatro Ventidio Basso is a historic theater located in Ascoli Piceno, Italy. It was built in the mid-1800s and has since been restored to preserve its original architectural charm.
What to see or do: Visitors can attend performances and events at the theater to experience its grandeur. The theater has a seating capacity of 400 and hosts a variety of shows, including opera, theater, and ballet performances.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss a chance to admire the stunning interior design and decorative details of the theater. Its ceiling is adorned with a beautiful fresco and there are intricate designs throughout the building.
Insider travel tips: It’s a good idea to book tickets in advance to ensure availability, especially during the peak tourist season. Visitors should also arrive early to take a guided tour of the theater and learn more about its history.
9. Chiesa di Santa Maria Inter Vineas
Chiesa di Santa Maria Inter Vineas is a beautiful Catholic church located in Ascoli Piceno, Italy. It dates back to the 13th century and has undergone several renovations over the centuries.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the church, including the intricate arches and sculptures. Inside, there are many beautiful frescoes, including the notable “Madonna and Child” painting by Carlo Crivelli.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the church. The courtyard outside is also worth a visit, with beautiful views of the city.
Insider travel tips: If possible, visit during a religious service to fully experience the beauty of this church. Dress modestly and respectfully, as this is still an active place of worship.
Parking can be difficult in the area, so consider taking public transportation or walking if possible.
10. Chiesa di San Vittore
Chiesa di San Vittore is a beautiful church located in the historic center of Ascoli Piceno, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Gothic and Romanesque architecture of the church. Inside, there are beautiful frescoes and paintings, as well as sculptures by the famous Ascoli Piceno artist Cola dell’Amatrice.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the impressive rose window on the façade of the church, as well as the bell tower, which offers fantastic views of the city.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting the church during one of the many religious festivals held in Ascoli Piceno throughout the year. The church is also located near many fantastic restaurants and shops, so plan to spend some time exploring the area.
11. Forte Malatesta
Forte Malatesta is an impressive fortress built in the 14th century located in Ascoli Piceno, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the fortress to see its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the beautiful frescoes on the ceiling of the fortress chapel.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb while exploring the fortress. Also, visiting during sunset provides stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.
12. Chiesa di San Gregorio Magno
Chiesa di San Gregorio Magno is a 13th-century church located in Ascoli Piceno, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the Romanesque-style architecture of the church, including the beautiful rose window and the bell tower. Inside the church, there are several frescoes and artworks worth seeing.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the precious Polyptych of Carlo Crivelli, an altarpiece made in 1473 that portrays Saint Gregory the Great.
Insider travel tips: – The church is located in a quiet area, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
13. Cripta di Sant’Emidio alle Grotte
The Cripta di Sant’Emidio alle Grotte is an underground crypt located beneath the Church of Sant’Emidio in Ascoli Piceno, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness the ancient Christian tombs and frescoes dating back to the 12th century, along with a chapel with a beautifully decorated altar.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the crypt is the “Miracolo della Mula,” a 14th century fresco that depicts the miracle of a mule that refused to move until it was taken to the crypt and then began to move again once it was blessed by Sant’Emidio.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as the crypt may be slightly damp.
Entry to the Cripta di Sant’Emidio alle Grotte is included in the ticket price for the Church of Sant’Emidio, which can be purchased on site.
14. Carnevale Storico Ascolano
Carnevale Storico Ascolano is a historic carnival celebrated in Ascoli Piceno, a town in the Marche region of Italy.
What to see or do: During the carnival, the streets of Ascoli Piceno come alive with colorful processions, dancing, music, and performances.
Visitors can enjoy a range of events such as the procession of the “Ox-drawn Cart”, the “Parade of the historic groups” and “the challenges of the Crossbowmen”.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the “Battle of the Regiments”, where performers dress up in historic military uniforms and engage in a mock battle.
Also, don’t miss the traditional food and delicacies such as the fried olives known as ‘Olive all’Ascolana’.
Insider travel tips: Book accommodations and travel in advance as the carnival attracts a large number of visitors. Dress up in costumes to join in on the fun and immerse yourself in the carnival spirit.
15. Pinacoteca Civica
Pinacoteca Civica is an art museum located in the city of Ascoli Piceno in Italy.
What to see or do: The museum houses an impressive collection of artworks dating from the 15th to the 20th centuries, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
Visitors can admire the works of famous artists such as Carlo Crivelli, Giovanni Bellini, and Guido Reni.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the stunning collection of Renaissance paintings, which includes masterpieces such as the Virgin and Child Enthroned by Carlo Crivelli and the Madonna della Cintola by Pinturicchio.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located in the historic center of Ascoli Piceno, which is full of charming streets and beautiful buildings to explore.
Visit the Pinacoteca Civica during the week to avoid crowds and take your time to admire the artworks.
Don’t forget to stop by the nearby Piazza del Popolo, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, for a coffee or a gelato.