Leonessa

What to see?

Leonessa offers many attractions to its tourists, It preserves the remains of the ancient defensive walls, whose two entrance gates are known as Porta Aquilana, dating back to the 13th century, facing east towards L’Aquila, and Porta Spoletina, dating back to the 14th century, facing north towards Spoleto. Equally important is the Torre Angioina, which was built in the Middle Ages and is located outside the town, precisely on Monte Tilia. Do not miss the considerable heritage of palaces built between the 15th and 18th centuries, including Palazzo Mongalli, which houses the Town Hall, dominating the main square of the town, known as Piazza VII Aprile, enriched with the Farnesiana or Margheritiana Fountain of Renaissance origin. The nearby church and convent of San Pietro dates back to the 13th century and preserves important works such as the 16th-century table by Giacomo Siciliano and a canvas by Giovanni Lanfranco representing the Madonna and Child. Not far from the central square, a short walk away is the historic Fonte della Ripa, a 12th-century fountain protected by a semi-circular arch. The famous Sanctuary of San Giuseppe da Leonessa is within walking distance: this example of Baroque architecture, dating back to the first half of the 18th century, houses the remains of the Saint, but also several 17th-century frescoes and a pipe organ from 1759. No less important is the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo, recognizable by its late Gothic portal, located halfway down the main shopping street. Leonessa is also a well-known skiing and hiking destination, thanks to its territory including the northern slope of Monte Terminillo and the Campo Stella ski resort.