Chieti
One of Italy's oldest cities, perched on a ridge with panoramic views from mountains to sea.
About Chieti
Chieti claims to be one of Italy's most ancient cities, founded by Achilles according to legend. Perched on a ridge between the Majella mountains and the Adriatic, it offers sweeping panoramas in every direction. The archaeological museum houses the famous Warrior of Capestrano, a 6th-century BC Italic statue that's become an icon of Abruzzo. The old town is a quiet maze of baroque churches, Roman thermal baths, and trattorias serving maccheroni alla chitarra—pasta cut on guitar-like wires that's synonymous with this province. Below the ridge, Chieti Scalo is the modern commercial hub, but the magic is all uphill.
Best Time to Visit
April to October for pleasant weather and clear views. Easter brings the famous Processione del Venerdì Santo, one of Italy's oldest Good Friday processions. September has wine harvest festivals.
Local Tips
- See the Warrior of Capestrano.
This mysterious 2,500-year-old statue in Chieti's archaeological museum is one of the most important pre-Roman artefacts ever found. A local can pair the visit with the Roman thermal baths and temple ruins nearby.
- Watch the Good Friday procession.
Chieti's Processione del Venerdì Santo dates to 842 AD—Italy's oldest. A local will position you at the right spot along the torchlit route for the most atmospheric experience.
- Learn to make maccheroni alla chitarra.
This iconic Abruzzo pasta is cut using a wooden frame strung with guitar wires. A local can arrange a hands-on lesson with a home cook who still uses her grandmother's chitarra.