Ascoli Piceno is a jewel of the Marche region known as the City of a Hundred Towers, boasting one of the best-preserved Renaissance historic centers in Italy, built almost entirely in splendid white and gray travertine stone. Its main square, the majestic Piazza del Popolo, is an architectural masterpiece that gives it a unique elegance. Located at the confluence of the Tronto river and the Castellano stream, Ascoli is a city of ancient traditions, rooted in the Piceni people and manifested today in historical events like the Quintana and in an inimitable gastronomy, dominated by the famous stuffed Ascolana Olive.

What to See: History, Art, and Architecture

• Piazza del Popolo – Considered one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, bordered by the Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo and the Church of San Francesco.
• Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo – Historic building with an imposing façade and a portico, hosting exhibitions and the ancient council hall.
• Cathedral of Sant'Emidio – Majestic Duomo housing the crypt of Sant'Emidio, the city's patron saint, and the Polyptych by Carlo Crivelli.
• Ponte di Cecco (Cecco's Bridge) – Evocative Roman bridge crossing the Castellano stream, a symbol of the city's ancient history.
• Papal Paper Mill (Cartiera Papale) – Restored former paper mill, now home to museums and offices, testifying to Ascoli's historical industrial importance.

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Oliva Ascolana del Piceno PDO – The culinary excellence: tender green olives stuffed with minced meat, fried and served hot.
• Fritto Misto all'Ascolana – A mixed fry that, besides olives, includes cremini (fried cream), lamb cutlets, and battered vegetables.
• Rosso Piceno DOC Wine – A full-bodied red wine, typical of the area, which perfectly accompanies meat and fried dishes.
• Anisetta Meletti – Historic anise liqueur, a symbol of Ascoli, produced since the late 19th century.
• Ciavarro – Peasant soup based on mixed legumes and cereals.

Events and Traditions

• La Quintana – Historical re-enactment in medieval costume culminating in a chivalric tournament, held in July and August.
• Historic Carnival of Ascoli Piceno – Famous for its parades of costumed groups in Piazza del Popolo.
• Antiques Market (Mercatino dell'Antiquariato) – Held on the last Sunday of every month in the historic center, attracting visitors from all over Italy.

Excursions and Surroundings

• Sibilline Mountains National Park (Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini) – Ideal for trekking, excursions, and walks in the wild nature (Mount Vettore, Lake Pilato).
• Riviera delle Palme – The seaside resorts of the Adriatic coast, such as San Benedetto del Tronto and Grottammare, easily accessible.
• Offida – Village famous for the production of bobbin lace and its wines.

Verified Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Ascoli Piceno
• Marche Tourism - Ascoli Piceno Page

Top 5 Recommended Accommodations

• Palazzo dei Mercanti - Dimora & Spa – Historic residence with a spa and central location in the restricted traffic zone.
• Albergo Sant'Emidio * – Elegant 18th-century hotel with included breakfast and sauna.
• Hotel Palazzo Guiderocchi – Refined hotel in a renovated palace, with cozy rooms.
• Residenza dei Capitani – Boutique hotel in the center, with elegant rooms.
• Hotel & Residenza 100 Torri – Informal hotel in a 17th-century building.

Top 5 Recommended Restaurants

• Ristorante Piatto Unico – Known for revisited Marche cuisine and truffle dishes.
• Ristorante Re Squarcio – Traditional Ascoli cuisine in a welcoming environment.
• Osteria Nonna Nina – Specialized in first courses and the Ascolana mixed fry.
• Cantina dell'Arte – Rustic-chic restaurant with local cuisine.
• Trattoria Al Teatro – Traditional restaurant a short walk from Piazza del Popolo.