Take Some Time to Visit L’Aquila

L’Aquila is situated just over an hour drive from Rome – about 93 kilometers (53 miles). It is a beautiful location with many buildings of historical interest. In 2009 it was hit by a devastating earthquake that caused a huge loss in human life and many of the ancient structures were badly damaged. L’Aquila has managed to survive for hundreds of years and it is now already welcoming tourists back. A lot of restoration work is being conducted to save whatever can be saved and it will soon return as an important tourist destination.

History of L’Aquila

The name L’Aquila literally means ‘The Eagle’. The city was built in 1254 by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick the Second. L’Aquila was completely destroyed in 1259 but it was soon rebuilt. For many centuries it has been a powerful city and also an important place for people in the region to buy and sell goods. L’Aquila suffered a major earthquake back in the 1700s and it was partially destroyed by the Spanish in the 16th century and the French in 1799. The city has always been susceptible to earthquakes because it is built on an ancient lake bed which apparently puts it more at risk of seismic activity. The city has somehow managed to bounce back after every disaster that has come its way. There are currently about 70,000 people living in L’Aquila, but their numbers are greatly boosted by tourists.

What to See in L’Aquila

Despite the damage that occurred in 2009, many of the ancient structures have survived; although some will be kept closed until they are made safe. Probably the most well known monument in the city is the Fountain of the Ninety-Nine Spouts; each of these spouts is intended to celebrate each of the different castles in the area. The tallest building in the town is the Spanish Fort which was built in 1534 by the Spanish Viceroy; it is now a museum. Saint Bernardino of Siena is beautifully decorated and holds the body of this saint; it was built in 1472. There are also many other churches and buildings of historical importance.

The scenery around L’Aquila is breathtaking because the city is situated in a valley surrounded by Apennines Mountain range. It is also situated on the banks of the picturesque Aterno River.

Is L’Aquila Safe to Visit?

The last big earthquake to hit L’Aquila prior to 2009 was back in 1703. This should assure tourists that this is not a regular occurrence by any means. One reason for much of the destruction from this latest earthquake was that many of the old buildings had not been built to withstand this type of event. Lessons have been learnt and whatever is rebuilt will be structurally safer than before. This remains a beautiful location and well worth a visit if you are in the area. The people of L’Aquila are still attempting to return their lives to some type of normality and they depend on tourism to help them do this.