Palazzo Simonetti

The Palazzo Innamorati-Ciucci, now known as Simonetti, is a captivating 15th-century residence that still holds traces of even older periods, such as the 14th-century single windows that were later bricked up. The facade, made of finely worked travertine blocks, reflects the prestige of the building and the Innamorati family, one of the oldest and noblest houses in Ascoli Piceno, which inhabited it for centuries. Inside, the atmosphere of the original noble residence can still be felt, featuring spacious vaulted rooms, travertine corbels and lintels, as well as Latin inscriptions that evoke the humanistic culture of the time. In the grand vault of the ground floor, the ancient painted coat of arms of the Innamorati family is still visible, albeit in need of restoration, depicting a rampant lion holding a flower in its mouth, a direct testament to its lineage. The inscriptions above the doors, inspired by the verses of Horace, conjure up an educated and aware world where ethics and classicism intertwined in the daily life of the Renaissance nobility. Throughout the centuries, the palace has witnessed the complex political and social events of the city, later passing to the Ciucci family, another noble house from Ascoli, in the 19th century, and subsequently to the bishopric. The architectural transformations and layers tell a long and intricate story of ownership changes, shifts in use, and subsequent interventions that have enriched the character of the building, while preserving its historical and symbolic value. The structure is located in the heart of Ascoli Piceno's historic center, in a prime position directly adjacent to Piazza Arringo, the city's oldest monumental square. Within walking distance are the Cathedral of Sant’Emidio, the Palazzo dell’Arengo, and the Archaeological Museum, while the famous Piazza del Popolo is about 200 meters away. Surrounding it, typical restaurants, bars, and historic shops make the area lively and authentic, perfect for exploring the city on foot and discovering the charm of the "City of a Hundred Towers."