L’Aquila and Teramo: Two Art Cities in Abruzzo to Discover at the Foot of the Gran Sasso

In the heart of Abruzzo lies a treasure of nature, history, and authentic beauty: the Gran Sasso massif, majestic and wild, surrounded by cities and villages that tell centuries of culture. Among these, two art cities stand out—L’Aquila and Teramo—perfect for travelers seeking a slow-paced journey filled with genuine emotions, traditional flavors, and breathtaking landscapes.

L’Aquila: Rebirth, Art, and Spirituality

Walking through the streets of L’Aquila means entering a city that has known fragility but also the strength of rebirth. The 2009 earthquake left deep wounds, visible in its buildings and invisible in the soul of its people. Yet from that tragedy emerged an extraordinary effort of restoration and reconstruction, still ongoing, which has brought life and splendor back to the historic center.

A symbolic moment came with the 2009 G8 Summit, which then Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi decided to move to L’Aquila as a gesture of solidarity. Images of world leaders among the rubble touched international hearts, leading to donations from several countries and funds that helped bring hope and renewal to the city.

Today, strolling through its streets is like reading a book of resilience: next to cranes and scaffolding, you can admire restored monuments and squares once again filled with life.

Must-see sites in L’Aquila:

• The Basilica of Collemaggio, a masterpiece of Abruzzese Gothic art.

• The Fountain of the 99 Spouts, one of the city’s most iconic monuments.

• The 16th-century Spanish Castle, home to the National Museum of Abruzzo.

  
  

Teramo: Ancient History and Genuine Hospitality

Not far from L’Aquila, Teramo offers a more intimate but equally fascinating charm. With Roman roots, the city preserves archaeological and artistic treasures that tell a millennial story.

Highlights in Teramo:

• The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, with its Romanesque-Gothic façade.

• The remains of the Roman Theatre, a striking testimony to ancient Teramo.

• The narrow alleys of the historic center, alive with craft shops and traditional Abruzzese cuisine.

Here, time seems to slow down, allowing travelers to savor an atmosphere that is both authentic and relaxed.

The Common Thread: The Gran Sasso

L’Aquila and Teramo are two different faces of the same land, united by the majestic presence of the Gran Sasso d’Italia. In winter its slopes turn white, perfect for skiing and snow adventures, while in summer it becomes a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

From the Casetta di Trignano, a green haven nestled between the two cities, you can set off to discover both art capitals and then return to the peace of a quiet village, surrounded by birdsong and the scents of the countryside.

Why Choose Abruzzo: Authentic Emotions

Visiting L’Aquila and Teramo means discovering art cities around the Gran Sasso that surprise with their authenticity. It means embracing the beauty of landscapes, tasting traditional dishes like arrosticini or chitarra teramana, and feeling welcomed as part of one big family.

If you are looking for a place where nature meets history and hospitality is still a true value, a journey to these art cities in Abruzzo will stay in your heart forever.

👉 La Casetta di Trignano’s Tip: explore L’Aquila and Teramo over a long weekend, alternating art and nature. In the evening, return to an intimate, authentic place where silence, the stars over the Gran Sasso, and a great crackling fireplace will be the perfect frame for your holiday.