Like most cathedral piazze (squares) in Italy, Piazza Duomo was the heart of L'Aquila's commercial and social heart from its foundation in the 1300s until the 2009 earthquake. Even after the 1703 earthquake the city's open air market never stopped. The thee stars and not more are because the city administration has not found the way (or the will?) to bring it back.
But for many in L'Aquila it is still the heart and soul. Many outdoor events are held here from dog shows to concerts. Sunday and Saturday it often fills with tourists and locals alike out for a walk and it is home to the two best places for gelato in town: Gelateria Duomo and Fratello Nurzia.
And if you are thirsty the two fountains always have cold, healthy water from Gran Sasso mountain gushing forth, clear and refreshing. read more