Stracittadina Città dell'Aquila

The race that brings L'Aquila to life

The Stracittadina Città dell'Aquila has become the most anticipated running event in the Abruzzo capital. Every year in late May, thousands of people—including athletes, families, and casual enthusiasts—peacefully take over the streets and squares of L'Aquila's historic center to run together along a route that touches the city's most iconic landmarks. The event is organized by ASD Atletica Abruzzo L'Aquila and is part of the city's "L'Aquila Insieme per lo Sport" calendar, with the patronage of the Municipality of L'Aquila and the University of L'Aquila.

A route through the historic monuments

The course starts from the evocative Collemaggio square, in front of the famous Basilica of Santa Maria di Collemaggio, and winds through Viale Crispi, Via XX Settembre, Fontesecco, the Quattro Cantoni, Piazza del Teatro, the Parco del Castello with the Spanish Fort, Santa Maria di Farfa, and Piazza Duomo, before reaching the finish line at the Villa Comunale, in front of the Palazzo dell'Emiciclo. Running along these streets means symbolically traversing a city that, following the 2009 earthquake, continues its journey of rebirth and reconstruction: the Stracittadina is also a collective celebration that restores the historic center to its citizens.

Races for everyone

The event offers three different formats to suit every type of participant. The 10 km competitive race is FIDAL-certified and open to registered athletes, who challenge themselves on a fast and spectacular course. The 5 km non-competitive fun run is designed for those who want to enjoy the event's atmosphere without a stopwatch, whether running or walking. Finally, the Kids Run, managed by the Atletica Abruzzo Academy, involves the youngest participants in a shortened, safe course. Every year, the Stracittadina is paired with numerous trophies and championships dedicated to law enforcement, professional orders, and local sports associations.

Sport, community, and solidarity

Beyond its competitive aspect, the Stracittadina Città dell'Aquila holds strong social and charitable value: over the years, it has supported sports scholarships and health awareness campaigns, involving the L'Aquila community in a great moment of participation. It is much more than just a race: it is a way to experience the city, its province, and the entire Abruzzo region together through sport.