Avezzano

Avezzano is a town and comune in the province of L'Aquila, in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. It lies about 200 kilometres south of Rome and 30 kilometres southwest of L'Aquila. As of the latest census, its population is roughly 37,000 residents, making it the largest city in the province. The municipality covers an area of approximately 133 square kilometres and its administrative seat is situated at an altitude of 665 metres above sea level.

Geographically, Avezzano is located in the valleys of the duomo and the tenth valley of Monte Granito. The Fucino plain is accessible from the town, and the area is surrounded by the Majella and Gran Sasso mountain ranges. The town sits on the edge of the Fucino Basin, an area historically known for its fertile lands and strategic importance.

The history of Avezzano dates back to Roman times, but it only gained official status as a separate commune in 1865 after the unification of Italy. The town suffered extensive damage during the 1920 Irpinia earthquake, when many buildings were destroyed and a large portion of the population perished. Reconstruction in the mid‑20th century introduced a modern urban layout that included the historic piazza and new civic institutions.

The economy of Avezzano is traditionally based on agriculture, forestry, and small-scale manufacturing, with notable factories producing timber products, cleaning appliances, and construction materials. In recent years, tourism has grown, thanks to the town’s cultural sites, surrounding natural parks, and proximity to ski resorts in the Gran Sasso area.

Cultural landmarks include the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the Church of Santa Maria la Consolata with its Baroque altarpiece, and the Museo Civico dell'Esplosione del 1920, which documents the earthquake’s impact and the city’s repopulation. Other attractions are the Corso Garibaldi promenade, which borders a botanical garden, and the nearby Sanctuary of Saint Pius X, a significant pilgrimage site.

Avezzano is connected to the rest of Italy by the SS 3 “Piceno” road and the Avezzano railway station, which lies on the Terni–Sulmona line. The town also serves as a gateway to the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park and offers regular bus services to L’Aquila, Rome, and surrounding towns, facilitating both commuter and tourist travel.