Porta Solestà, Ascoli Piceno

History of Porta Solestà in Ascoli Piceno

The gate was built in 1230 at the wish of Fildesmilio da Mogliano, podestà of Ascoli. Materials from an older Roman gate were probably reused. The bridge dates from the Augustan age, and the present gate is its medieval rebuilding.

The name "Cappuccina" has been in use since the 16th century. In 1544 the commissioner Angelini allowed the Capuchin friars to build a small church near the gate. The name "Solestà", on the other hand, has two explanations. According to the first, it comes from a temple dedicated to the sun god. According to the other, it comes from "Sullae statio", in memory of a column that Sulla had set up.

What to see at Porta Solestà in Ascoli Piceno

The structure is simple: a large arch in squared travertine blocks, with a two-band cornice running across the front and continuing along the sides.

On the right, a stone block bears the Latin inscription recalling the 1230 order to build it. Higher up, another inscription celebrates the peace and confederation of 1450 with Fermo. In the block to the left above the arch, the coats of arms of the two cities can be seen on the same shield. At the top of the wall is a plaque with three coats of arms, surrounded by oak leaves and dating from the first half of the 13th century. The central shield is now illegible.

The Roman bridge has a single span and is 62 m long, 6.50 m wide and 25 m high above the river. Since the 1937-1938 consolidation it has been possible to enter spaces created inside the structure, to see it from within.

How to visit Porta Solestà in Ascoli Piceno

The gate is seen in the open, along the route leading to the bridge. From Piazza del Popolo it takes a few minutes on foot. The bridge is still used by vehicles, so watch out for traffic.

Where Porta Solestà in Ascoli Piceno is

Porta Solestà is in the Porta Solestà (or Porta Cappuccina) district, on the side of the Tronto opposite the historic center, at 42°51′29.75″ N and 13°34′19.51″ E. Via Elisabetta Trebbiani, the Rua delle Stelle and Via di Solestà end here.

Near Porta Solestà in Ascoli Piceno

Just past the gate stands the 17th-century small temple of Sant'Emidio Rosso. It keeps the stone block on which, according to tradition, the city's patron saint was beheaded. Not far away is the Baroque church of Sant'Emidio alle Grotte. Near the bridge there is also the medieval washhouse of Porta Cappuccina. From the gate you can continue along the river to the former church of Santa Maria delle Stelle. More ideas for the day are on the page things to do in Ascoli Piceno.