L'Aquila, city in central Italy, capital of the province of L'Aquila and of the region of Abruzzi, on the Aterno River. It is a resort and industrial center near the Gran Sasso d'Italia Mountains. L'Aquila is associated with Saint Bernardino of Siena, who died here in 1444. Saint Bernardino's Basilica (mainly 15th century) is a major landmark, and the city also contains many other old structures. A university founded in 1952 is located here. L'Aquila was founded in about 1240 by Frederick II of the Holy Roman Empire. It subsequently flourished before declining in the 16th century. Population (1997 estimate) 69,459.