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Temples

Collegiate church of Archangel Michael

4.6 · 455 reviews
A quiet and solemn place of historical reflection
Collegiate church of Archangel Michael, 65013 Città Sant'Angelo PE, Italy
Interesting facts
1

The church was elevated to a collegiate status in 1352 by Pope Innocent VI.

2

Several Roman-era tombstones were incorporated into the exterior walls, evidence of a preceding temple or necropolis.

3

The bell tower is considered one of the most prominent examples of Gothic architecture in the province of Pescara.

4

It contains a 14th-century altar piece created by the famed Abruzzese goldsmith and painter Nicola da Guardiagrele.

5

The structure displays a mix of materials, including brickwork and limestone, typical of the regional Teramo-Pescara architectural tradition.

Overview

The Collegiate Church of Archangel Michael is the primary religious monument in Città Sant'Angelo, constructed on the site of a 9th-century Benedictine abbey. Its distinctive bell tower, finished in 1352, features a unique octagonal belfry with pointed arches that serves as a landmark for the Abruzzo region. The architectural style represents a transition between Romanesque and Gothic periods. Inside, the church preserves a significant wooden triptych attributed to Nicola da Guardiagrele. Several ancient steles are integrated into the masonry of the building, reflecting its reuse of earlier Roman materials. The church underwent extensive restoration to address damage from the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake and is currently fully accessible to the public.

Photo spot

From the Piazza IV Novembre looking up at the bell tower against the backdrop of the Adriatic hills.

Insider tips

Walk the narrow alleys surrounding the church to see the embedded Roman stones on the building's exterior.

Visit the adjacent civic museum housed nearby to view artifacts related to the town's religious history.

Check the local parish notice board outside for information on temporary exhibitions or special liturgical events.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to drive into the historic center, as the streets are extremely narrow and restricted to authorized vehicles.

Etiquette

Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees; maintain silence as it remains an active place of worship.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45-60 minutes
Best time to visit
Late afternoon during shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) when the soft light hits the brickwork of the bell tower.
Address
Collegiate church of Archangel Michael, 65013 Città Sant'Angelo PE, Italy
42.519, 14.061
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleTransitional Romanesque-Gothic
Key feature14th-century octagonal bell tower

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45-60 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon during shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) when the soft light hits the brickwork of the bell tower..

From the Piazza IV Novembre looking up at the bell tower against the backdrop of the Adriatic hills.

Close by you'll find Church of Saint Augustine, The Jewish Ghetto of Citta Sant'Angelo, Giardino Comunale.