Getting to know Vasto

Vasto is a large Abruzzo town in the province of Chieti; it rises 144 meters above sea level and has 38,000 inhabitants. The beating heart of the city is represented by Piazza Rossetti, with the homonymous statue of the patriot Gabriele Rossetti in the center. Here there is also the Bassano tower of 1427, which is part of the defensive walls, as well as the Caldoresco castle, built by Giacomo Caldora in 1427, perhaps on a previous one. Noteworthy is the cathedral of San Giuseppe, the city's cathedral, with a thirteenth-century facade enriched by a suggestive rose window and portal. The adjacent bell tower with slender shapes is interesting; the interior is very rich with works of art of a certain importance. Among the civil buildings, the most significant is Palazzo D'Avalos, from the 14th century, later rebuilt and enlarged, now home to the civic museums. The Roman remains of the archaeological park and the ruins of the church of San Pietro are very suggestive, with a thirteenth-century portal and a spectacular balcony overlooking the sea. The 11th century church of Santa Maria Maggiore is important, with its robust bell tower from the 14th century; inside it contains precious paintings by Tiziano and Paolo Veronese. A walk to Vasto marina with beautiful beaches on the Adriatic is recommended.