Penne
Updated August 2020
“It was a seat of government of the Vestini people no later than 300 BC. In around 89 BC, the Vestini along with other Italic tribes were defeated by the Romans in the Social War, and became citizens of Rome. The town was known as Pinna Vestinorum during the time of the Roman Republic.” Wikipedia
It is one of ‘i borghi piu belli d’Italia’ (most beautiful villages in Italy) .
The architecture is defined by bricks so Penne is known as the ‘city of bricks’. Unfortunately Penne was bombed heavily in WWII by the Allies and much of the town had to be rebuilt.
THINGS TO SEE
Alessio di Simone walk. – A lovely walk on the outskirts of the historic centre with nice views
Historic Centre – some highlights
Annunziata Church – Romanesque origins from the 13th century. The 1801 façade is notable for its baroque style.
Salconio Portico – 1911
San Francesco’s Gate (18th century) with St Nicholas church – at the entrance to the historic centre you will find an imposing door and church along with a lovely piazza with cafes
Brick architecture – Penne has been called ‘small Siena’ due to its unique bricks.
Lago di Penne (Penne Lake) – The Orto Botanico Riserva Lago di Penne is a botanical garden located within the Riserva Lago di Penne. There are also 4 easy walking trails of different length, for a total of 16km..
NOTABLE PEOPLE
Penne is the birthplace of the Italian patriot and poet Clemente de Cesaris (1810-1887) known as the Garibaldi of Abruzzo. A monument dedicated to him can be found outside the Museo delle genti d’Abruzzo in Pescara, at the site where he was jailed due to his support for a unified Italy (Risorgimento).