L'Aquila Cultural Capital 2026: program and monuments to visit

Overview

For 2026 L'Aquila presents a program focused on promoting its monumental heritage: public spaces, historic palaces and squares will host site-specific exhibitions, installations and screenings, together with educational activities for schools.

Main events

• Ai Weiwei: Aftershock — Palazzo Ardinghelli / MAXXI L’Aquila, Piazza Santa Maria Paganica 15. Period: 29/04/2026 - 06/09/2026.
• Italiani da Oscar — Screening of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" at Multisala Movieplex, Via Leonardo da Vinci 7. Date: 30/04/2026 (9:00 PM).
• RELazioni. Visual arts and sculptures — Palazzo OMNI (Former Asilo), Viale Duca degli Abruzzi. Period: 01/05/2026 - 30/06/2026.
• Dantedì (schools initiative) — Streaming by the Film Institute "La Lanterna Magica" with a presentation by Martina Orlando. Date: 25/03/2026.

Practical information

Check opening times, admission rules and fees with each venue before you go: many events take place in monuments and historic squares where guided tours, themed routes or temporary access restrictions for installations could be active. School activities may be available in person or via streaming.

Why visit

The program pairs contemporary proposals with the experience of monumental heritage, allowing visitors to discover restored or repurposed historic buildings and to see how architectural heritage engages with contemporary art.

Location

Main location: Piazza Santa Maria Paganica, 15 — 67100 L'Aquila (AQ), Italy. Verify addresses and access information for each venue (Palazzo Ardinghelli, Palazzo OMNI, Multisala Movieplex) before planning your visit.