Copyright: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chieti_01_(RaBoe).jpg
Updated May 2026
Introduction
Chieti is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Italy. According to legend, it was founded in 1181 BC by Achilles and named Teate after his mother, Thetis. Historically home to the Italic Peoples – the Marrucini, it later became an important Roman centre after the Social War (87 BC). Today, Chieti blends ancient archaeology, medieval streets and elegant 19th‑century architecture with a lively university atmosphere.
Things to See
National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo
The Museo Archeologico Nazionale d’Abruzzo, housed in the stunning 1830 Villa Frigerj, holds one of the most important archaeological collections in Abruzzo. The museum’s highlights include the Warrior of Capestrano, an extensive coin collection (6th to 19th century) and detailed displays on the Italic tribes who lived in Abruzzo before their integration into the Roman Republic.
From the gardens behind the villa, you can also enjoy beautiful views across the surrounding hills.
Warrior of Capestrano
The Warrior of Capestrano is one of Abruzzo’s most iconic symbols. A farmer ploughing a field near Capestrano discovered the artifact in 1934. It is a rare example of Italic art that is distinct from classical Greek or Roman sculpture.
Nearby, archaeologists also uncovered a smaller female statue known as the Lady of Capestrano. This is an equally fascinating discovery as stone figures from this era were usually depicted as deities rather than mortal women.
Archaeological Museum ‘La Civitella’
Museo archeologico nazionale “La Civitella” sits on the ancient acropolis of Teate and incorporates the remains of three Roman temples and part of a 1st century AD amphitheatre. The museum explores Chieti’s ancient past and includes sections on prehistoric, Marrucini and Roman life.
Roman Temple
Built in the 3rd century AD, this temple was dedicated to Jupiter, Juno and Minerva, marking Teate as an important Roman religious centre. A significant portion of the original brick architecture remains and provides a link the city’s Roman past.
Corso Marrucino
Cafes, palazzi and shops line this elegant 19th century boulevard. It’s the main thoroughfare and perfect for a slow wander.
Piazza di San Giustino
Chieti’s main square is surrounded by some of Chieti’s most important historic buildings including the 13th century Cathedral of San Giustino, the Palazzo Comunale and the Palazzo di Giustizia. It’s the natural heart of the city and a perfect starting point for exploring the historic centre.
Cathedral of San Giustino (Duomo)
A 13th century Romanesque‑Gothic cathedral with a striking bell tower and an atmospheric crypt. It has been rebuilt and expanded over the centuries.
Villa Communale – Public Park
A peaceful 19th‑century park with shaded paths, fountains and valley views. It is located beside the National Archaeological Museum and is a quiet spot to pause between sightseeing.
Short History
Prehistory: Archaeological finds in Chieti show continuous human presence from around 5,000 BC, with earlier Paleolithic tools (850,000–400,000 years old) found in the surrounding territory. Copper Age, Bronze Age and Iron Age remains including necropolises, reveal a long, uninterrupted settlement.
Italic Period: Before Rome, Chieti was the capital of the Marrucini, an Italic tribe linked to the Samnites. Excavations in Piazza San Giustino in 2022 uncovered an Italic tomb and imperial Roman residential complex featuring mosaics and a massive public cistern.
Ancient Rome: After the Social War, Teate became a Roman municipality and grew into a prosperous urban centre with temples, baths, an aqueduct, a forum, a 5,000‑seat theatre and a 4,000‑seat amphitheatre. Its position along the Via Tiburtina strengthened its role as a regional hub and a key trade route between Rome and the Adriatic coast.
Medieval: Following Gothic, Byzantine and Lombard phases, Chieti regained prominence under the Normans. In 1097, Pope Urban II issued the call for the First Crusade from Chieti. The city became capital of Abruzzo Citra, expanded its walls and saw major church building, including the Cathedral’s reconstruction.
Early Modern: Under Aragonese, Spanish and Bourbon rule, Chieti remained an administrative and cultural centre. Despite the devastating 1656 plague, Chieti rebounded, building grand palaces like Palazzo Fasoli alongside the historic architecture still standing today.
19th–20th Century: During the Reunification Movement in Italy, King Vittorio Emanuele II passed through Chieti in 1860 on his way to meet Guiseppe Garibaldi at the famous Teano meeting 1 .
In 1925, Mussolini shifted the Matteotti murder trial to Chieti, then a fascist stronghold, to reduce attention and control the process.
During WWII, Chieti was declared an Open City, sparing it from bombing and attracting refugees from across Abruzzo. Its population swelled from 3,000 to 30,000 during this time.
People & Culture
Luciano Odorisio was born in Chieti. He is a director and screenwriter best known for Scopien and Via Paradiso which were also filmed in Chieti.
How to Get Here
By train: The main station Chieti (also called Chieti Scalo) is located in the lower part of the city.
By bus to the old town: From Chieti station, take a local bus up to Chieti Alta (the historic centre). The ride takes about 15 minutes and you can buy tickets at the bar inside the station.
By car: Parking in the old town is limited and driving can be a nightmare so it is easier to park in Chieti Scalo and take the bus up.