L'Aquila is the capital of the region, which is divided into Chieti, L'Aquila, Pescara, and Teramo provs. There is a narrow coastal strip along the Adriatic. The chief rivers are the Pescara, the Sangro, and the Tronto. Abruzzi was once a very poor region but now boasts a steadily growing per capita income.
Agriculture is an important industry.
By utilizing available technology, small farms have become more efficient. The chief manufactures are processed food, textiles, clothing, and plastics. Tourism is important. Abruzzi was conquered by the Romans in the 4th cent. From 1948 to 1965 it was included in the region of Abruzzi e Molise.