Located on the confluence of the Tronto and Castellano rivers, Ascoli Piceno in the Marche region is surrounded by mountains. Situated about 25 kilometres from the Adriatic coast, the city has fine historical and natural attractions.

Sights and Attractions

With examples of Baroque and Renaissance architecture, much of the historical part of the city centre is built in marble from nearby mountains. Major sites include the Piazza del Popolo, the Cathedral of Sant’Emiddio, the Tempietto di Sant’Emidio alle Grotte and the Church of San Francesco. There are also ancient Roman ruins, including a gate dating from the first century BC.

Activities

There are two national parks bordering the city. Parco Nazionale dei Monti Siibillini has hiking and biking trails of varying difficulty. Parco Nazionale dei Monti della Laga boasts about 300 kilometres of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Canoeing, bird watching and skiing are also popular in the park.

Day Trips

Several scenic towns are located nearby, including Civitella del Tronto, Arquata del Tronto and Castel Trosino. All three medieval towns are within the province of Ascoli Piceno, of which the city of Ascoli Piceno is the capital.