Città Sant'Angelo
Welcome to Città Sant'Angelo!
Città Sant'Angelo is a small town with a population of around 15,000 located in the province of Pescara in Abruzzo. If you visit this beautiful city, you might be amazed by the breathtaking view of the hills that surround it. Città Sant'Angelo is only 18 kilometers away from Pescara, the capital city, which makes it a very popular destination for tourists.
A hilly territory
The territory of Città Sant'Angelo is the third largest in the province of Pescara but the thirty-eighth at the regional level. It is located on a hill and has a strictly hilly morphology that ends in a strip of land less than a kilometer wide. This strip divides the municipalities of Silvi and Montesilvano and overlooks the Adriatic Sea. Città Sant'Angelo is crossed by the rivers Fino and Tavo, while the Piomba river flows between Marina di Città Sant'Angelo and Silvi Marina, and the Saline river flows between Città Sant'Angelo and Montesilvano.
A Mediterranean climate
The climate of Città Sant'Angelo is typically sub-littoral maritime, defined as a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry in the hilly area, but on the narrow coastal strip, maximum temperatures can exceed 40°C. Winters are mild if the circulation at altitude is predominantly western, with temperatures exceeding 15°C even in January. Precipitation tends to concentrate in autumn and is slightly below the national average.
The history of the name
The name of Città Sant'Angelo was first mentioned in the 11th century as "Civitatem Sancti Angeli" in the Catalogus Baronum. The origin of the name may refer to the Archangel Michael, the patron saint, or to an ancient "Castra Sancti Angeli," a military settlement.
What to visit in Città Sant'Angelo?
The Borgo
The Borgo of Città Sant'Angelo is definitely the most charming place for visitors, with its narrow cobbled streets and stone houses. The borgo develops around Piazza del Popolo, where you can find the Church of San Francesco, a 13th-century building. Here you can admire the Italian Renaissance frescoes of Giulio Pace and Francesco da Montereale.
The Cathedral of San Michele Arcangelo
The Cathedral of San Michele Arcangelo is the most important religious building in Città Sant'Angelo, located in the hilly region. The construction of the cathedral dates back to the 11th century, but over the years, it has undergone many transformations. The building is situated in a panoramic location, from which you can enjoy a splendid view of the city and the surrounding hills.
The Castle
The Castle of Città Sant'Angelo is another symbol of the city, located on top of the hill. Built in the 13th century at the request of Charles I of Anjou, the castle served as a defensive fortress against the enemies who were settling in the area at that time.
Events and festivals in Città Sant'Angelo
The Sagra of Porchetta
The Sagra of Porchetta is one of the most important events that take place in Città Sant'Angelo. This festival is held every year around the third week of August and celebrates the culinary tradition of porchetta. The whole pig is roasted on a spit and served with sides such as fried potatoes, roasted peppers, and salad.
The Feast of San Michele Arcangelo
The Feast of San Michele Arcangelo is the main religious event that takes place in Città Sant'Angelo. The feast occurs on September 29th and involves the entire community. There are processions with statues of the saint in the main streets, and at night, the surrounding hills are spectacularly illuminated.
The Christmas Market
The Christmas Market is another important event that takes place in Città Sant'Angelo. Here you will find stalls with Christmas food and drinks, local crafts, games for children, and live music. The Christmas Market is held every year in the main square of the city, Piazza del Popolo, starting from the second week of December.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Città Sant'Angelo is a fascinating city full of history. The Borgo, the Cathedral of San Michele Arcangelo, and the Castle are just some of the attractions this city offers. If you visit in August, do not miss the Sagra of Porchetta, and in September, you can participate in the Feast of San Michele Arcangelo. Città Sant'Angelo is a perfect place to experience Italian tradition and culture and enjoy a splendid view of the surrounding hills.
