Lanciano is the ancient city of Anxanum, famous as a pilgrimage destination due to the Miracle of the Eucharist dating back to the VIII century. Just a few km from the Adriatic it is rich in art, history, events and festivals. A prehistoric village dating back 7000 years has recently been discovered. Now it is a thriving town with many restaurants, coffee bars and modern amenities such as swimming pools, bowling alleys, shopping centres.

Places of interest

The ancient, majestic city walls (XI century)

Church of Santa Maria Maggiore: one of the most important churches in Abruzzo built in the XII century. The magnificent main facade built in the XIV century hosts the crucifixion by sculptor Francesco Petrini and a sumptuous rose window above the Romanesque-Gothic portal. The XIV century bell-tower stands out against the city profile.

Church of Sant'Agostino (XIV century), with a fine bell-tower and precious stuccoed interior.

Church of San Nicola, with a chapel containing a fine cycle of XIV century fresco.

Church of San Francesco, where the Eucharistic Miracle is preserved, near central Piazza Plebiscito, with the Town hall and XVII-century bell-tower, near the neoclassical Cathedral.

Festivities

Holy Week: on Friday, Procession on Christ's Death; on Sunday and Tuesday, representation of Christ's meeting with its Mother and with John the Gospel Writer.

April: National Agriculture Fair.

31 August: St. Egidio's Fair.

1st weekend in September: Palio delle contrade (not to be missed) and on the following day, Sfilata del Mastrogiurato, a historical re-enactment in costume.