Cinquemiglia is an Italian compound word that literally translates to "five miles." It is derived from the Italian numerical adjective cinque (five) and the plural noun miglia (miles), which is the plural form of miglio (mile).
While its literal meaning denotes a specific distance, the term "Cinquemiglia" is most notably recognized as a component of geographical place names in Italy. The most prominent example is the Piana di Cinquemiglia (Plain of Cinquemiglia), a high-altitude karst plateau located in the Abruzzo region of central Italy, within the province of L'Aquila. This plain is situated between several mountain ranges, including the Monti Pizi and the Maiella massif.
The Piana di Cinquemiglia has historical significance, serving as an important transit route through the Apennine mountains and being the site of various historical events, including its strategic role during World War II. The name likely refers to the approximate length or breadth of the plain. In a broader sense, names incorporating "Cinquemiglia" often historically denoted a location that was approximately five miles in extent or at a distance of five miles from a significant landmark or settlement.