Sulmona
Ovid's birthplace, famous for confetti, Renaissance piazzas, and a spectacular mountain setting.
About Sulmona
Sulmona sits in a fertile valley surrounded by mountains, a picturesque medieval town that punches far above its weight. It's the birthplace of the poet Ovid and the undisputed capital of confetti—not the paper kind, but the sugar-coated almonds that are a staple of Italian celebrations. The main street is lined with confetti shops displaying elaborate floral arrangements made entirely from these colourful sweets. Beyond the confetti, Sulmona offers a stunning aqueduct, a lively Wednesday market in its Renaissance piazza, and access to the wild Majella national park. The Easter 'Madonna che scappa' procession is one of Abruzzo's most dramatic traditions.
Best Time to Visit
May to October for exploring the town and surrounding mountains. Easter for the famous 'Madonna che scappa' procession. The July Giostra Cavalleresca medieval jousting tournament is spectacular.
Local Tips
- Visit a confetti workshop.
Sulmona has been making sugared almonds since the 15th century. A local can arrange a behind-the-scenes visit to one of the family workshops where artisans craft the elaborate confetti flower bouquets by hand.
- Watch the Madonna run.
On Easter Sunday, a statue of the Madonna 'runs' across the piazza to embrace the risen Christ while green confetti rains down. A local will get you the perfect viewing spot for this electrifying tradition.
- Hike the Majella hermitages.
The Majella mountains above Sulmona hide medieval hermitages carved into rock faces. A local can guide you to the most atmospheric ones, including the Eremo di San Bartolomeo, wedged into a cliff above a gorge.