The best road cycling routes around Capitignano

Explanation for the difference in the number of gargoyles! One of the most striking facts about the Fontana delle 99 Cannelle is that the fountain has 99 water jets, but only 93 sculpted mask heads. According to legend, L'Aquila was founded by 99 villages, but historical research indicates that there were actually 93. Therefore, in 1272, architect Tancredi da Pentima equipped the fountain with 93 stone masks. To later complete the famous legend of the 99, six additional gargoyles without mask faces were added. According to tradition, these six simple spouts refer to the six wounds of Christ. Thus, the fountain is not only a magnificent monument, but also a unique blend of history, symbolism, and legend. Moreover, for many visitors, it remains a fun challenge to count all 99 water jets themselves.

In L'Aquila, a rich medieval past effortlessly merges with admirable modern resilience. The proud capital of Abruzzo rises in full glory and is best discovered on foot. Wandering through the atmospheric streets, you'll encounter one architectural treasure after another. For example, start at the iconic Fontana delle 99 Cannelle, where 99 mystical stone masks continuously spout water. Climbing further up, you'll reach the massive 16th-century Forte Spagnolo. From this impressive fortress, you can enjoy a sweeping view of the rugged, often snow-capped peaks of the Gran Sasso massif. The city's rich history is also palpable in the many beautifully restored palazzi and churches. For instance, the Basilica di San Bernardino overwhelms every visitor with a breathtaking baroque ceiling adorned with gold leaf. After all the cultural immersion, lively squares like Piazza del Duomo invite you for a well-deserved break. It's the perfect place to enjoy the local cuisine and a good glass of Abruzzese wine at an outdoor cafe. As a grand finale, the Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio should not be missed. This striking, pink-and-white checkered church houses a true world first: the very first Holy Door in the world. Thanks to the central, free parking facilities just outside the city walls, this compact art city is the ideal destination for a carefree and inspiring cultural walking holiday.

The Forte Spagnolo (also known as Castello Cinquecentesco) is one of the most impressive 16th-century military strongholds of Central and Southern Italy. Although it is a defensive work, its true historical significance lies in the fact that it was never built to protect the city, but rather to suppress it. After the Spanish threat diminished over time, the complex successively served as the residence of the Spanish governor, barracks for French troops in the 19th century, and headquarters for the German occupier during World War II. In 1902, it was officially declared a national monument. Shortly after World War II, it became the home of the National Museum of Abruzzo (MuNDA). Since the devastating earthquake of 2009, the fort has been undergoing a lengthy and complex restoration, but it remains one of the most impressive symbols of the city when viewed from the outside.

Did you know that the Fontana delle 99 Cannelle legend says it has 99 gargoyles, in tribute to the 99 villages that founded L'Aquila? Those who look closely will see stone masks above the gargoyles, which according to tradition represent castle lords or protective spirits. It is striking that there are only 93 mask heads. Historians believe that the remaining six gargoyles were added later to complete the symbolic number 99. The fountain dates back to 1272, and its five water basins were formerly used as a wash place. Numerous legends also circulate around the fountain: for example, the architect is said to have taken the secret of the water source to his grave, and knights would have ritually cleansed themselves here before entering the Basilica di Collemaggio.

watering hole

Beautiful view of the lake

You can walk around the lake completely

view of the lake