L'Aquila: the city of 99 castles that still offers beauties after centuries of history

L'Aquila is the capital of the Abbruzzo region, a city of medieval foundation rich in buildings and historical places that despite the various earthquakes that have occurred over the years, the last in 2009, is still a place rich in history capable of capturing the visitor. An example is the 'fountain of 99 spouts', dating back to 1272, located in one of the oldest areas of the historic center: Borgo Rivera. The place is located near the Aterno river, and was built on the remains of the ancient castle of Apuli (origin of the toponym). The spouts from which the water comes out are really 99, of which 93 are surmounted by masks. The number 99 is not accidental, the gargoyles represent in fact the 99 castles that gave life, in the Middle Ages, to the city we know today as L'Aquila. One of the main military buildings is the Spanish Fort, located north of the historic center, never actually used for military purposes but only as accommodation. The places of worship are numerous, among the most particular we remember the sanctuary of the Madonna d'Appari located in Paganica and located between a rocky wall and the course of a stream. It was built following an apparition of the Madonna. Do not forget also the Basilica of Collemaggio which boasts three records: the first holy door in history, the only holy door that is opened every year, and finally the only church where a pope has been crowned outside the Vatican state.