Explore Sulmona in Abruzzo, the birthplace of the Latin poet Ovid, nestled near the Maiella National Park. Famous for its historical production of confetti, Sulmona is also rich in many beauties in its historic center waiting to be discovered.
Start from Porta Napoli, the monumental gateway to the medieval city, which was once enclosed within fortified walls, connecting Sulmona to the capital of the Kingdom. The distinctive gateway, adorned with bas-reliefs, allows access to the main street, Corso Ovidio, where some of the most important monuments and numerous shops with colorful and artistically shaped confetti can be found—a true spectacle for the eyes.
Proceed to visit the Church of Santa Maria della Tomba, built in the 14th century on the remains of an ancient Temple of Jupiter or on part of Ovid's house. It features a Romanesque-Gothic façade, an elegant rose window from the 15th century, and a bell tower adorned with a clock.
A few steps away, admire the beautiful medieval aqueduct with its 21 arches, approximately 100 meters long, built by King Manfred of Swabia in the 13th century. Given the city's commercial importance and demographic growth, it supplied water to mills and fountains in the surrounding countryside—a symbol of Sulmona that stands in the vast Piazza Garibaldi, also known as Piazza Maggiore.
Here, the market took place, and many historical buildings overlook the square, along with the Fountain of the Old Man, one of the city's oldest fountains, featuring a bearded statue connected to its founder. On the main street, find the statue dedicated to Ovid, the famous Latin poet born in Sulmona.
While strolling through the historic center, visit the Casa Santa della Santissima Annunziata, a complex of buildings from different eras, including the church and the ancient hospital, now a museum. The church, one of Sulmona's largest religious buildings, boasts an elegant Baroque façade adorned with a beautiful 65-meter bell tower. Inside, admire Baroque stuccoes and frescoes, making it a true gem.
Conclude the guided tour by walking through the tree-lined avenues of the municipal park until reaching the Cathedral of San Panfilo, Sulmona's oldest temple built in 1075. Despite several reconstructions, it preserves a crypt containing the relics of the city's patron saint, Saint Panfilo, and a precious golden bust.
