Located in the border between the Abruzzi and Lazio regions, Tagliacozzo is one of the towns that has not undergone lots of changes over the centuries. The town is associated with a great battle between the two rivals of Swabians and Angevins. Angevins won the war which took place in a nearby plain. However, even at the time of war Tagliacozzo was the best known place name, hence the battle is called the battle of Tagliacozzo. This battle was fought on August 23, 1268 CE. Since some of the structures are left unharmed in this town, it is not difficult for a visitor to understand the role it has played during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. When you look at Piazza dell'Obelisco it is not difficult to understand this fact. However, the most impressive building is Pallazzo Ducale. It was built in 14th century and expanded in the 15th century. Count Roberto Orsini is the one who built it. The building has stairways that are completed with paintings depicting the life of Jesus Christ. The institution of Teatro Italia located in a Benedictine convent of 1686 which is completely refurbished, holds international midsummer festival with the participation of international celebrities and companies associated with opera, jazz and dance. One who wants to enjoy the reenactment of the events of the time of Renaissance must visit the city when this festival is being held. This town that is spanning an area of 89.4 square kilometers is located at a height of 740 meters above mean sea level. It has 6532 inhabitants. It is located 55 kilometers away from L' Aquila. This town is a starting point for visiting the two ski resorts of Simbruini Mountains. There is the possibility of cross country skiing or downhill skiing once you visit either of these ski resorts.