The mid-19th-century opera house and main concert venue, named after the Roman general Publius Ventidius — a son of Ascoli who rose from slavery to consul. The interior is a typical Italian horseshoe of red plush and gilt; the acoustics carry a small voice cleanly. The autumn opera and chamber-music seasons are the highlights.
Tickets are reasonable by Italian standards; foreign visitors should book online before arrival in high season. Tours of the building are offered occasionally on weekend mornings.