Situated today in front of the Belvedere Romani, which overlooks the Angrella valley, the Arch of Porta Nuova is both the oldest and the most recent gate of the historic city. Built in 1790 under the direction of Master Juror Giuseppe Tambelli, the arch occupies a location about twenty meters behind its original position, where one of the four gates of the Caldora walls stood. These walls, completed in 1439, were built on the remains of the ancient Terra gate of the Roman city.
Passing through the arch, you enter Corso Palizzi, which was originally the Cardo maximus of Histonium, constructed during the imperial era after the Italian Wars. To locate the original positions of the Roman and medieval gates, simply walk a few meters and turn onto the first street on the right, Via Aimone. At Brigata Maiella Square, you can still see the remains of the medieval stone walls. It’s important to note that once their military function was completed, the walls were incorporated into housing blocks that extended beyond the original city perimeter.
When the city government decided to rebuild the gate in 1790, they adapted the design to fit the surrounding architecture, particularly the convents of Santo Spirito and dell’Annunziata, which were located to the west and east of the gate, respectively. The current arch of Porta Nuova, built in late 18th-century Baroque style, features a beautiful brick structure topped with a loggia, accessible from the neighboring Palazzo Conti-Ciccarone. A marble frieze adorns the arch, displaying the municipal coat of arms and a Latin inscription commemorating its reconstruction.
Porta Nuova in Vasto, located at the heart of the charming historic center, stands as a true monument that encapsulates the city’s millennia-long history, offering a glimpse into the different eras and dominations that have shaped it.
From Roman Origins to the Middle Ages:
Porta Nuova’s origins date back to Roman times, when Vasto was known as Histonium. The gate was part of the city’s defensive walls, marking the boundary between the urban core and the surrounding territory, and protecting the city from external attacks. Over the centuries, the gate has undergone various modifications and reconstructions, adapting to the changing architectural styles and defensive needs of each era.
The Caldora Era and Its Splendor:
In the 15th century, with the arrival of the Caldora family, Vasto entered a period of great prosperity, and Porta Nuova became a central feature. As lords of the city, the Caldora family renovated the city walls, incorporating Porta Nuova into their new fortified system. The gate was transformed and embellished, acquiring a more monumental appearance that reflected the family’s prestige.
Nicola Tambelli’s Reconstruction and Baroque Influence:
By the 18th century, Porta Nuova was in disrepair. To restore it, the city commissioned master builder Nicola Tambelli, who used his expertise and creativity to give the gate a refined and harmonious design. The renovated Porta Nuova, in Baroque style, features a round arch topped with a triangular tympanum, decorated with the city’s coat of arms. Two niches on either side of the arch house statues of saints.
A Symbol of the City and a Gateway to History:
Today, Porta Nuova stands as one of Vasto’s most iconic landmarks. Passing through it, you enter the historic center, leaving the modern world behind and immersing yourself in an atmosphere rich with history, art, and culture. The gate serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of Vasto, from the charming streets of the historic center to the monuments of both Roman and medieval origins.
