Abruzzo: L'Aquila

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L’Aquila was founded in the mid 13^th century by Frederick II (of Hohenstaufen). The town rests at the foot of the Gran Sasso. The walls surrounding the town (built for fortification) can still partially be seen. The main church of the town is the Basilica di San Bernardino. It was built in the mid 1400s. The façade of this Basilica is particularly beautiful. Inside is the tomb (ornate) of Bernardino di Siena and a carved ceiling by Ferdinando Mosca. The square military style Castello (16^th cenury) is located in the Parco del Castello. Today, it is the Museo Nazionale d’Abruzzo which has modern and medieval art (also archeological and local Abruzzi finds). Fontana delle Novantanove Cannelle (Fountain of 99 pipes — actually there are 99 faces/masks that spurt water) was built in 1272. The number 99 is key here as it relates to a local legend regarding 99 fountains, squares, castles and quarters of the town that were united when Frederick II founded the town. Today, in honor of this legend the bell in the courts building tolls 99 times (at night). The rose windows of the Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio are gorgeous. However, the exterior is unique and lovely with it’s pink and white decorative stone (some say floral motif). The interior is Baroque and there are some fine paintings. The duomo in the center of town (San Massimo) was built in the 13^th century. There’s a daily market in L’Aquila (Monday — Saturday).