
Scalinata di San Bernardino
A grand Baroque staircase leading to the Basilica of San Bernardino, L'Aquila's iconic summer concert venue.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music and shows

Scalinata di San Bernardino
Best Time
Live music and shows

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand Baroque staircase leading to the Basilica of San Bernardino, L'Aquila's iconic summer concert venue.
"One of the best places of L'Aquila, a great idea for an innovative enjoyment of shows."

Check Event Schedules
Look for 'Cantieri dell'Immaginario' and other summer events to enjoy live performances.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grand staircase is quite a climb, so comfortable footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Staircase
Leading to the Basilica of San Bernardino
Majestic Baroque steps offering a scenic ascent to a significant religious and architectural landmark.

Summer Concerts
On the Scalinata stage
Experience electrifying live music and performances during the summer festival season.

Basilica of San Bernardino
At the top of the staircase
A beautiful 18th-century church dedicated to Saint Bernardino of Siena, a must-visit after climbing the steps.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Summer Event Hub
Architectural Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
Look for 'Cantieri dell'Immaginario' and other summer events to enjoy live performances.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grand staircase is quite a climb, so comfortable footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Admire the Architecture
Take time to appreciate the Baroque design of the staircase and the Basilica.
Summer Vibes
The Scalinata truly comes alive with energy during summer festivals and concerts.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
Look for 'Cantieri dell'Immaginario' and other summer events to enjoy live performances.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grand staircase is quite a climb, so comfortable footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Admire the Architecture
Take time to appreciate the Baroque design of the staircase and the Basilica.
Summer Vibes
The Scalinata truly comes alive with energy during summer festivals and concerts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Scalinata di San Bernardino as a beautiful architectural landmark and a fantastic venue for summer events, particularly concerts. Its historical significance and the vibrant atmosphere during performances are frequently highlighted as major draws for L'Aquila.
"One of the best places of L'Aquila. There are events/lives in the summer"
Ale
"A great idea for an innovative enjoyment of shows in the city of L'Aquila"
Giuseppe Schettino
""
Stefania Rita
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Scalinata di San Bernardino is located in the heart of L'Aquila, making it easily accessible by foot from the city center. If arriving by car, look for parking near the historic center and then walk to the staircase. Public transport options within L'Aquila are also available, with bus stops typically located near major piazzas.
While direct parking at the Scalinata itself is limited, several public parking lots are available in the vicinity of L'Aquila's historic center. It's advisable to park and then enjoy a short walk to the site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Accessing the Scalinata itself is generally free as it's a public space. However, if you plan to attend a concert or event held on the staircase, separate tickets will be required for those specific performances.
The Scalinata di San Bernardino is an outdoor public space and is generally accessible at all times. However, specific events held there will have their own scheduled times.
Entry to the Basilica of San Bernardino is typically free, though donations are appreciated. Special exhibitions or guided tours within the Basilica might incur a fee.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the grand Baroque staircase itself, leading up to the impressive Basilica of San Bernardino. During summer, it often hosts concerts and shows, transforming into a lively event space.
The staircase involves a significant number of steps, which may pose a challenge for individuals with mobility issues. The Basilica at the top may have some accessible entrances, but it's best to inquire directly.
For appreciating the architecture and fewer crowds, daytime visits are ideal. For a vibrant atmosphere and live entertainment, summer evenings are perfect.
Yes, photography is generally permitted at the Scalinata di San Bernardino. It's a picturesque spot, especially with the Basilica as a backdrop.
The Scalinata was constructed between 1773 and 1775, designed by Gianfrancesco Leomporri, and leads to the Basilica dedicated to Saint Bernardino of Siena, a significant figure in religious history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Scalinata is located in L'Aquila's historic center, which is dotted with numerous trattorias, cafes, and restaurants offering local Abruzzese cuisine. You'll find plenty of options within walking distance.
L'Aquila offers traditional Abruzzese dishes, often featuring lamb, pasta (like maccheroni alla chitarra), hearty soups, and local cheeses. Don't miss trying some regional wines.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the grandeur of the staircase from its base, looking up towards the Basilica. The steps themselves offer great leading lines. The view from the top, overlooking the city, is also a fantastic photo opportunity.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for photographs of the Scalinata and the Basilica. Daytime offers clear views, while evening events can provide dynamic shots with stage lighting.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the full sweep of the staircase, often with people ascending or descending to add a sense of scale. Shots that include the Basilica's facade at the top are also very popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎶 Music Lovers
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: Scalinata di San Bernardino
Beyond its architectural beauty, the Scalinata has evolved into a dynamic cultural space. During the summer months, it frequently hosts a variety of live events, including concerts and theatrical performances, most notably as part of the 'Cantieri dell'Immaginario' festival. These events transform the historic steps into a vibrant open-air venue, drawing crowds and adding a lively contemporary dimension to this ancient site. The combination of historical grandeur and modern cultural programming makes the Scalinata di San Bernardino a unique and engaging destination.
Summer Events and Performances
These events offer a unique opportunity to enjoy live entertainment against the backdrop of L'Aquila's historic architecture. The atmosphere is often described as electric and memorable, with audiences captivated by both the performances and the setting. Checking local event listings for the summer season is highly recommended to catch these special performances and experience the Scalinata at its most vibrant. The dismantling of the stage after events also signifies the temporary nature of these spectacles, highlighting the Scalinata's role as a versatile stage for the city's cultural life.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit