Folignano
Discovering Ascoli Piceno
Hello friends, today I will take you to discover Ascoli Piceno, an Italian municipality located in the southern part of the Marche region. With a population of 45,688 inhabitants, Ascoli Piceno is the capital of its namesake province and is famous for its magnificent historic center, entirely built in travertine stone.
The historic center
When visiting Ascoli Piceno, you cannot miss the Piazza del Popolo, a wonderful example of Renaissance architecture. But the historic center also offers the surprise of the towers still present, witnesses of the medieval past of this historical city.
In fact, during the Middle Ages, Ascoli Piceno was characterized by the presence of about two hundred towers, whose construction began immediately after the year 1000. However, according to tradition, Frederick II of Swabia had ninety-one of them destroyed in 1242, and their reduction continued in the following centuries.
But despite this, Ascoli Piceno still has many gentilizie and bell towers, so much so that it is called "the City of a hundred towers".
The Ascolan olives
But Ascoli Piceno is not only famous for its artistic and architectural heritage. Here was also born a gastronomic specialty known around the world: the Ascolan olives.
Protagonists of the tables of the Marche region, these delicacies are prepared with green olives from Ascoli, which are emptied and filled with a stuffing of meat and breadcrumbs, then breaded and fried. They are really delicious and a dish to taste absolutely when visiting this splendid city.
Physical geography
Ascoli Piceno faces east onto the sands of the Adriatic, but at the same time it is enclosed by the mountains. In fact, its urban center is located at an altitude of 154 meters above sea level, in the confluence area between the Tronto river and the Castellano stream, surrounded on three sides by mountains, including Monte Ascensione, Colle San Marco, and Montagna dei Fiori.
The territory of Ascoli Piceno is also characterized by the presence of two protected natural areas: the Gran Sasso National Park to the south and the Monti Sibillini National Park to the northwest. Definitely, an unspoiled environment, whose charm is appreciated by taking pleasant walks.
Rivers and streams
Ascoli Piceno is bathed by the Tronto river, which flows south of the city, and by the Castellano stream. In addition, near the Papal Paper Mill, you can admire the beauty of the Chiaro stream, a destination we recommend visiting.
Mountains
In addition to being bathed by the sea and the Tronto river, Ascoli Piceno is enclosed by the mountains. Among the most imposing peaks, we mention Monte Ascensione, Montagna dei Fiori, and Collina del Sacro Cuore.
This hill, with a modest altitude, is an easily recognizable place in the northern panorama of the city. The hill dominates the Campo Parignano neighborhood and is characterized by the presence of the monument dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In addition, along the Via Monte Ascensione, which leads to the top of the hill, you can admire fourteen travertine sculptures, made by the artist Antonio Mancini and dedicated to the Passion of Christ and the Stations of the Cross.
Climate
Ascoli Piceno enjoys a sub-Appennine climate, typical of areas near mountain ranges. However, thanks to its proximity to the sea, there are no winters that are too cold or summers that are too hot, making the city a pleasant place to visit at any time of the year.
Here's a quick tour of Ascoli Piceno. If you have the opportunity to visit it, know that this city will surprise you with its beauty, history, and cuisine. Have a great trip, friends!
