A national monument since 1902, the Basilica in Collemaggio de L’Aquila, outside the city walls on the hill of the same name, is one of the best examples of Abruzzo’s architecture. The church was built in 1288 by Pietro da Morrone, who would become pope as Celestine V only six years later. It has protected its founder’s mortal remains since 1327.

The structure’s façade is a renowned masterpiece of Italian Romanesque-Gothic architecture, and is covered in the local white and pink stone, set in a geometric pattern of crosses and diamonds. The decorative elements are finely made and bear testimony to the great skill and diversity of the workers employed.