Piazza Rossetti in Vasto is rich in Masonic symbols. The monument to Gabriele Rossetti, long requested by the citizens and subject to numerous attempts to raise funds through public subscriptions, particularly among Vasto’s emigrants in the United States, remained a dream for the local administration until 1924. At that time, an unspecified association proposed to…
Originally from Ischia, the Spataro family arrived in Vasto in the 17th century. In their family palace, which overlooked the Castello square, now Piazza Rossetti, Giuseppe was born in 1897. He would go on to become Vasto’s most prominent politician after World War II. Giuseppe Spataro earned a law degree from La Sapienza University in…
San Cesario holds a significant place in the devotion and folklore of the people of Vasto. His relics are displayed in a glass case within the crypt beneath the altar of Santa Maria Maggiore. This crypt was constructed in the mid-19th century based on a design by Nicola Maria Pietrocola. The remains of the martyr…
The D’Avalos family, likely of Visigothic origin, arrived in Italy as part of Alfonso I of Aragon’s entourage. They distinguished themselves through military prowess, diplomatic skill, and loyalty to the Crown—qualities that ensured they maintained a prominent role in both Italian and European politics of the time. The brothers Innico, Alfonso, and Rodrigo, sons of…
Cesare Michelangelo d’Avalos d’Aquino d’Aragona was born in Vasto on January 15, 1667, and baptized on January 19 in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. He was the third son of Diego I d’Avalos, Marquis of Vasto. After the untimely death of his elder brother, who left no heirs, Cesare Michelangelo assumed the title of…
Porta Catena is the only gate of the medieval city wall remaining in the city, and its construction took place between 1391 and 1439. It has a beautiful pointed arch in brick, surmounted by a round arch, which supports the upper part protruding. Porta Catena has evidently been remodeled at various times, but some original…
Nestled just off the beaten path, this small and quiet square is a hidden gem in the rich tapestry of Vasto’s history. Piazza Caprioli owes its name to the renowned jurist Virgilio Caprioli, born in 1548 in the family home at the corner of Via Barbarotta. Caprioli’s legacy endures, not only for his historical studies…