Attraction Guide: Piazza Arringo, Ascoli Piceno, Italy

Piazza Arringo Guide

Piazza Arringo: Ascoli's Ancient Stage Guide

Step into Piazza Arringo, the oldest and largest square in Ascoli Piceno, a place where history whispers from every stone. Unlike the travertine-clad Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Arringo boasts a more diverse architectural landscape, reflecting its long and varied past. This is where Ascoli's civic and religious power converged, and where you can still feel the pulse of the city's rich heritage. Piazza Arringo's origins stretch back to Roman times, when it served as the city's forum. Over the centuries, it has been the site of countless important events, from religious ceremonies to political debates. The square is home to several significant buildings, including the Duomo (Cathedral of Sant'Emidio), the Palazzo Comunale (City Hall), and the Baptistery of San Giovanni. Each building tells a story of Ascoli's evolution, from its Roman roots to its medieval glory and beyond. Explore the Duomo, dedicated to Ascoli's patron saint, Sant'Emidio. Visit the Palazzo Comunale to admire its impressive architecture and learn about the city's governance. Step inside the Baptistery of San Giovanni, a beautiful example of early Christian architecture. Take a stroll around the square, soaking in the atmosphere and imagining the events that have unfolded here over the centuries. Many restaurants around the square offer traditional Ascolana cuisine, including *vincisgrassi*, a local lasagna variation, and of course, the ubiquitous *Olive Ascolane*.