Ascoli Piceno is the capital of the province of the same name in the Marche region. The town is dominated by a central square (Piazza del Popolo), surrounded by a medieval district with narrow streets and many stores.
Ascoli Piceno travel guide
Tourist information
Region: Marche. Province: Ascoli Piceno. The city’s Ufficio Turismo is in the Piazza Arringo, 7 (tel. +39 0736298204 or 0736298334). Opening hours are: Monday to Friday: 9,00 – 18,30; Saturday from 9,00 to 13,00 and from 15,00 to 18,00; Sundays and holidays from 10,00 to 19,00. The zip code (CAP) is 63100. The area code is (+39) 0736.
By car/public transportation
There is a small train station, which has existed since 1886, and provides a connection to San Benedetto del Tronto. In general, however, buses are more widely used. A number of companies provide a direct connection to Rome several times a day. Buses to San Benedetto del Tronto and Teramo, among others, are very frequent.
The most direct and picturesque way is to follow the Via Salaria from Rome. It may be quicker to follow first the E80 and then the A24 to Teramo. From here the ss81 leads to Ascoli. This road is a lot more expensive though, as one has to drive large stretches on toll roads.
Tourist attractions Ascoli Piceno
Most of Ascoli Piceno’s major attractions are located in or around the Piazza del Popolo. These include the Sant’Emidio Cathedral and the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. In the Middle Ages, there were numerous towers in the city, several of which are still standing. This can be easily seen when crossing the river near the Palazzetto dei Longobardi.
Special Events
The patron saint of the city is Sant’Emidio and on the first Sunday in August there is a huge parade where everyone is decked out in Renaissance clothing. The parade is followed by the Quintana, a knightly tournament where the 6 districts of the city fight each other.