Wedged between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains, the Province of Pescara forms part of Italy’s Abruzzo region. It has been settled since at least 1,500 BC and was conquered by the Romans, who developed it as an important shipping and trade hub. Once ruled by Austria, Pescara joined the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.
Things to do in Pescara
Whether you want to get cultured in Pescara, explore centuries-old religious sites or escape to the hiking trails of the Apennines, the Province of Pescara will inspire you.
Sightsee in Pescara. Divided in two by the Aterno-Pescara River, Pescara is a lively seaside city and birthplace of the nationalist Italian poet, Gabriele D’Annunzio. Learn about his life and legacy at the Casa Natale di Gabriele D’Annunzio before seeing works by celebrated international artists at the Vittoria Colonna Museum of Modern Art. In the Museo delle Genti d’Abruzzo, you’ll find artefacts related to local artisan industries.
Visit the Hermitage of San Bartolomeo in Legio. Carved into a rocky spur in Roccamorice is this thousand-year-old hermitage, which was restored by Pietro dal Morrone in 1250. The facade of its chapel is decorated with faded frescoes and inscriptions while its altar houses a statue of St. Bartholomew. Walking trails lead through the Valle Giumentina to the hermitage’s stone staircase.
Explore the Riserva Regionale Voltigno e Valle d'Angri. Sprawling along the western border of Pescara is this scenic protected area, which forms part of the Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga. Follow one of the hiking trails that lead to its majestic beech forest and lush valley carved by the Tavo River. While exploring the trails, keep an eye out for mountain salamanders and Apennine chamois.
Getting around Pescara
Abruzzo Airport is the main aviation gateway to the Province of Pescara and has flights to destinations across Europe. Rome and Leonardo da Vinci International Airport are 2.5 hours away. Regular trains connect to the Pescara Centrale railway station while buses serve smaller towns and villages throughout the province.