Along with the Cathedral, Palazzo dell’Arengo is one of the main sights at Piazza Arringo in historic Ascoli Piceno. Built in the 12th century, and expanded in later years, it now houses the municipal offices, an art gallery and the local Tourist Information Centre. Hidden away at the back of the palazzo is a secret garden. If you didn’t know it was there, you could miss it. The entry is through the main doors but keep going, past the Tourist Information and gallery entry, and you’ll spot the small but charming garden with a fishpond, fragments of ancient Roman columns and sarcophagi and bronze busts of noteworthy locals. Entry is free.

Home to the art gallery, it is a splendid example of the great majesty of Ascoli Piceno...a truly magical place which during the Christmas holidays is filled with fantastic lights that make the place unmissable...