Sulmona Abruzzo: the city of confetti, where history, art, and sweet delights meet
Sulmona, in central Italy, is an emblematic city of Abruzzo, nestled in the Peligna Valley at the foot of the Majella National Park. Renowned worldwide for its confetti – colourful sugared almonds symbolising refinement and celebration – the city charms visitors with its medieval heritage, elegant atmosphere, and centuries-old traditions.
Visiting Sulmona means diving into a world where culture, craftsmanship, and gastronomy blend harmoniously.
The historical heritage of Sulmona Abruzzo
With a millennia-old history, Sulmona Abruzzo was founded during Roman times. It is the birthplace of the poet Ovid, whose statue overlooks Piazza XX Settembre.
Its historic centre is a true architectural gem:
Piazza Garibaldi, one of the largest squares in Abruzzo, dominated by a medieval aqueduct dating back to the 13th century.
Cattedrale di San Panfilo, founded in the 11th century, blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles.
The churches of Santa Maria della Tomba and San Francesco della Scarpa, which house frescoes, sculptures, and works of art.
The shopping streets of Sulmona, lined with Renaissance palaces and artisan boutiques, reflect the city’s former prosperity.
To enrich your cultural journey, also discover transhumance in Abruzzo, another unique intangible heritage of the region.
The confetti of Sulmona Abruzzo, a sweet and colourful art form
The confetti of Sulmona Abruzzo represent far more than a tradition: they are a craft of excellence that has made the city famous since the 15th century.
These confetti, made from high-quality almonds and a coloured sugary coating, are handcrafted into flowers, bouquets, or decorative arrangements.
A centuries-old artisanal tradition
The artisans of Sulmona Abruzzo preserve a craftsmanship passed down from generation to generation.
Once offered during weddings, baptisms, and religious ceremonies, confetti symbolised happiness and purity. Even today, they decorate the colourful shop windows of the city centre, attracting visitors and sweet lovers alike.
Don’t miss the Pelino Confetti Museum, where you can discover old machines, archives, and the secrets of production.
Festivals and traditions in Sulmona Abruzzo
The living culture of Sulmona Abruzzo is expressed through its traditional festivals and spectacular medieval reenactments.
La Madonna che Scappa in Piazza
Every year, on Easter Sunday, the city celebrates the Madonna che Scappa in Piazza, a unique procession in which the statue of the Virgin runs across Piazza Garibaldi, amid applause and showers of flower petals. This deeply symbolic event reflects the religious devotion and popular joy of Abruzzo.
The Giostra Cavalleresca and the summer festivals
In summer, Sulmona comes alive with the Giostra Cavalleresca, a medieval tournament where knights, costumed parades, and marching bands fill the streets with colour and excitement.
The craft markets, concerts, and performances make this period the perfect time to experience the city in all its vibrancy.
Gastronomy and the art of living in Sulmona Abruzzo
Discovering Sulmona Abruzzo also means savouring its culinary specialties born from the mountains and pastoral traditions.
Typical flavours not to be missed
Artisanal confetti made with almonds, chocolate, or shaped into flowers.
Pecorino d’Abruzzo, aged sheep’s cheese, often served with honey.
Mountain honey from the Majella, scented with thyme or wildflowers.
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and Trebbiano white wines, perfect to accompany these delights.
Local markets are full of authentic products: fine cured meats, olive oils, aromatic herbs, and rustic specialties — a true reflection of Abruzzo’s terroir.
Practical information for visiting Sulmona Abruzzo
Location: Sulmona, province of L’Aquila, in the heart of Abruzzo, about 70 km from L’Aquila and 160 km from Rome.
Access: via the A25 Rome–Pescara motorway (exit Sulmona–Pratola Peligna) or by regional train from Pescara or L’Aquila.
Best periods:
Spring: for religious celebrations and blooming flowers.
Summer: for medieval festivals and lively evening events.
Autumn: to enjoy the colours of the Majella and seasonal products.
Why discover Sulmona Abruzzo?
To stroll through one of the best-preserved historic centres in Italy.
To admire the colourful art of Sulmona’s confetti.
To experience spectacular traditions such as the Madonna che Scappa in Piazza.
To savour the authentic gastronomy of Abruzzo.
To explore the natural landscapes of the Majella National Park.
