Ascoli Piceno

Ascoli Piceno is one of Italy's most beautiful small cities, famous for its stunning travertine Piazza del Popolo and the birthplace of olive all'ascolana. It sits in a green valley at the confluence of two rivers.

Things to do

• Admire Piazza del Popolo — This all-travertine square is considered one of Italy's most elegant public spaces.
• Visit the Cathedral of Sant'Emidio — A fine Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with an impressive crypt and cloister.
• Tour the Palazzo dei Capitani — The medieval civic palace dominates the main square and hosts cultural exhibits.
• Watch the Quintana Joust — This spectacular medieval jousting festival is held in August and July.
• Hike in the Sibillini foothills — Trails into the Monti Sibillini National Park start just outside the city.

Food to try

• Olive all'Ascolana — Invented here, these fried stuffed olives are the city's most famous culinary export.
• Vincisgrassi — A hearty baked pasta with layers of ragù and béchamel, popular throughout Marche.
• Maccheroncini di Campofilone — Ultra-thin egg pasta from the Marche coast, typically served with meat sauce.
• Cremini fritti — Fried cream custard squares, a sweet street food popular at festivals.

Local customs & good to know

• Aperitivo culture is strong — Locals gather in Piazza del Popolo for evening aperitivo — join the ritual at a café.
• Quintana requires booking — Tickets for the August Quintana joust sell out early, book months in advance.
• Travertine care underfoot — The polished stone piazza can be slippery when wet, wear sensible shoes.