L'Aquila, Italy

L'Aquila is a historic university city in central Italy, known for its medieval and Baroque architecture, as well as its vibrant cultural scene. Surrounded by mountains, it has a rich history dating back to ancient times. In 2009, the city was severely damaged by a powerful earthquake, which caused widespread destruction and loss of life. Since then, extensive efforts have been underway to restore its historic sites and support the community’s recovery. Today, L'Aquila combines its historical charm with resilience, serving as a center for education, research, and regional identity in the Abruzzo region.