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Le Marche -
Le Marche is a glorious and unspoilt region of Italy, full of wonderful scenery, lovely beaches and a plethora of places of interest – from historical sites such as Loreto to the stunning caves of Frasassi, and Villa Prati offers a unique holiday villa experience in the heart of the Le Marche region. The fact that it is still a relatively unknown area in comparison to Tuscany and Umbria is a significant part of its charm, with few souvenir shops, less crowds and yet so much to see and do – and all in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Easily accessible with flights to Ancona or Bologna, Le Marche’s wonderful geographical diversity has led to it being labelled as ‘The Whole of Italy in One Region’.
It remains a largely undiscovered gem in the heart of Italy, sandwiched between the stunning Apennine Mountains on its western fringes and the beautiful Adriatic coast to the east.
Perhaps because Le Marche has historically been an isolated region, sheltered as it is from intrusion by its natural mountain borders to the north, south and west and by the Adriatic Sea to the east, it is only slowly gaining rightful recognition overseas, although the Italians have long favoured it for their own holidays. Often overshadowed by its better known and more touristy neighbours Tuscany and Umbria, and strangely overlooked by the travel media, Le Marche can justifiably claim to be Italy’s very own Garden of Eden and hidden secret at that. Boasting lush greenery and an enchanting mixture of vineyards, olive groves, sunflower fields, abundant woodland and rivers which wind their way down to a beautiful coastline, topped off with stunning mountain scenery.
Geography & Climate
On one side the Apen nines, on the other the Adriatic coast, and in the middle an expanse of gentle hills atop which sit century-
mountain, hill and coast.
THE CLIMATE
The regionʼs climate is as diversified as the lay of the land is varied. The average temperature ranges from 10°C to 15°C, with temperature changes of between 5° to 13° C. Along the coast, the climate is subcontinental north of Anco na with sharp shifts in temperature between the seasons: summers are hot but rarely humid, thanks to the breezes and the cool air from the hills set back from the sea, while winters are cold, with the rains typical of the season. Due to the Monte Conero promontory, the climate south of Anco na is subcoastal, presenting increasingly Medi terranean features further south, in the direction of the Riviera delle Palme. The best period for beach tourism is July and August. The climate in the inland areas is harsh in winter, making it advisable to visit villages, parks and other sites in those areas in Spring and Autumn. Sum -
THE SEA
From the long and sandy beaches to the cliffs overlooking the sea
The Marche offers 180 kilometres of coastline, 26 beach resorts which face the Adriatic sea defined by beautiful beaches, picturesque bays, 9 tourist ports and 16 Blue Flag beaches which certify the quality of the water and services. The varied landscape allows those who decide to take a vacation by the sea not only to choose between different types of beaches but also to visit the natural beauty of the inland offering numerous itineraries in the High Country or city centres to discover the rich historical and cultural heritage. The beach resorts offer services devised to satisfy the needs both of families and the younger generation preserving, however, a very human dimension. Devised respecting the territory, in harmony with the same, they are the perfect destination to take a relaxing vacation
The coastal landscape of The Marche, incredibly varied in shapes and colours, offer a trip full of emotions, from long very fine sandy beaches and small rocky creeks, with rocks and palm trees, up to the white cliffs overlooking the azure of the Adriatic Sea which seems framed between an intense green colour of the close by countrysides and the ochre of the very long strands.
The Northern coast, the so-
Continuing towards the south, we reach the anconitan coast where we find Senigallia, a city of ancient origins and famous for its velvety beaches: 12 km of white fine sand, an ideal destination for beach holidays, also thanks to the many accommodation facilities, the well equipped beach resorts and renowned restaurants. Continuing onwards we arrive at Ancona, city with strong maritime traditions, located in one of the most beautiful stretches of the Adriatic coast, the Riviera del Conero,which is located in the regional park of the same name, with its succession of bays, steep cliffs and secluded beaches. A must see is the Due Sorelle (Two Sisters) beach, named for two great majestic rocks that rise from the waters. The peculiar geographic location of the territory also allows bearing witness to a unique and incredible sight: it is possible to watch both sunrise and sunset in the Sea. The grassy cliff of Monte Conero, which is reflected on the sea offers a spectacle of rare beauty, even interrupting the trend of the coast with a nice stretch of beach of fine gravel, rocks and steep cliffs that plunge into the sea.
Afterwards we reach the coast of Macerata with Porto Recanati, better known as the “living room of the Riviera” , a modern beach location where efficient and modern accommodation facilities co-
Enchanting is Porto Sant’Elpidio, an antique maritime village which has become an equipped beach resort, where the so called “Verde Riviera Picena” starts, made up of sandy and gravel beaches and a crystal clear sea, surrounded by green hills. This Riviera still boasts authentic maritime villages and beach resorts such as Porto San Giorgio and Lido di Fermo all the way up to Pedaso.
Continuing further south we arrive at the last part of the Marche coast, at the renowned “Riviera delle Palme”, between Cupra Marittima, Grottammare and San Benedetto del Tronto. Known for the largeness of the beaches, the green palms, (approx. 7,000) and the old medieval villages which are still inhabited to date, real balconies on the sea, it is a preferred destination for tourists travelling with family thanks to the beauty of pine wood, the soft sand , the tranquillity of the environment. From here onwards you shall encounter a typically Mediterranean landscape: evergreen shrubs, palms, bougainvillea and oleander, the expression of a lush, full of exotic essences and overseas scents. A bicycle path takes you to Grottammare, the Pearl, known as the city of oranges, with its 5 km of fine and sandy beach.
The length of the beach is one of the main attractions of San Benedetto del Tronto, renowned beach location surrounded by the relaxing green colour of the countless palm trees. The Queen of the sea, the history is well documented in many museums throughout the city, one of them being the Civil Maritime Museum. Many stretches of sand also characterise Porto d’Ascoli, extreme southern limit of the region.
It is possible to practice various sports at the seaside resorts within the region: windsurf, water skiing, sailing, scuba diving, kiteboarding, swimming and beach volley. Moreover, the sea is populated by a dense and varied fish wildlife, it is the ideal place to go scuba diving, with the support of qualified professional scuba diving schools and several diving present along the entire coast and equipped with recharging stations able to guarantee quality material and assistance for any level of immersion.
The Marche has over 16 blue flags, the symbol of a healthy and sustainable tourism, and the result of careful environmental policy. There are in fact modern sewage treatment plants, waste sorting of municipal waste, the organization of environmental initiatives such as limited traffic, large pedestrian areas, bicycle paths, environmental education for young people, care for urban furnishings.
Along the 180 kilometres of the coast it is possible to dock in 9 tourist ports, spread out over the entire regional territory. In the province of Pesaro and Urbino the ports are located in Gabicce Mare, Pesaro and Fano, in the province of Ancona in Senigallia, Ancona and Numana, in the province of Macerata in Civitanova Marche, in the province of Fermo in Porto San Giorgio, the best equipped tourist port of the Adriatic Sea in Italy, with 900 moorings, and, lastly, in the province of Ascoli Piceno in San Benedetto del Tronto. The overall capacity is for approximately 5,000 berths.
CITIES OF ART AND CULTURE
The cultural and artistic scenario of The Marche region is an expression of cultural pluralism established throughout the course of history. A territory of transit for painters, sculptors and architects that left a profound mark in history influencing their successors. The Marche Region is one of the richest regions in Italy for natural treasures: 500 squares, more than 1000 important monuments, 37 strongholds, 106 castles, 15 fortresses and 170 towers, thousands of churches of which 200 are Romanesque, 96 abbeys, 183 sanctuaries, 72 historical theatres all renovated and functioning. The region also has the greatest number of museums and galleries, as well as a significant amount of libraries, a total of 315, among which the Venerable Hermitage of the Holy Cross (Eremo di Santa Avellana) and that of the Leopardi family which keep the ancient volumes.
The Marche Region is, therefore, a true open-
A region where culture first and foremost is a way of being and a strong way of feeling internalised in the approach to life and the modus operandi. The Marche is, in fact, an ancient and historical territory yet at the same time very modern and innovative; a region open to change, however, attached to its values and traditions; a region where one experiences and breathes a unique connection between culture, a civilisation of achievements, art and genius, creativity and craftsmanship, that de facto allowed Made in Marche brands to be recognized worldwide.
Other than museums, libraries, archives and theatres, the cultural heritage includes numerous monumental and religious assets, abbeys, monasteries, churches, spread out over the entire territory, as well as civil assets with castles, walled centres, fortresses which tell the story of a glorious and lively past. Loreto, for example, is home to one of the most famous Marian sanctuaries in Europe and at the same time it is rich with important works of art. Recanati, enchanting village, is the birthplace of Giacomo Leopardi, and through its streets we can relive his poetry: the “Il Sabato del Villaggio” Square, the “Passero Solitario” Tower in the cloister next to the Church of St. Augustine; the Hill of “L’Infinito” on Mount Tabor.
Ancona, capital city of The Marche, perches on a promontory that inclines toward the Adriatic Sea and lays claim to the feature which renders it unique: the sun which rises and sets on the sea. The city takes its name from the translation of the Greek word for elbow (ankon), due to its shape. A must see is the historic city centre full of churches and museums, one of the most noteworthy is the Cathedral of St. Ciriaco, one of the most outstanding examples of Romaneque architecture in The Marche, Piazza Plebiscito with the church of St. Domenico, which keeps a Crucifixion by Titian, San Francesco alle Scale whit the Assumption of Lorenzo Lotto, the Loggia dei Mercanti, the Picture Gallery F. Podesti, known for its painting by Carlo Crivelli, Lorenzo Lotto, Titian, Sebastiano del Piombo, Guercino, A. Lilli, Carlo Maratta etc., the National Archaeological Museum of The Marche, the Teatro delle Muse (Le Muse Theatre).
Ascoli Piceno is full of valuable features: the ancient Roman vestiges, the evidence of the Romaneque and Gothic eras are indelible in that which is defined the city of one hundred towers. The historic city centre owes its harmonious and compact look to the local travertine, raw material for all of the constructions. Piazza del Popolo is the family room and meeting place of this city, also known for Caffè Meletti; the civic Picture Gallery, full of works by Carlo Crivelli, Titian, Guido Reni, the Civic Contemporary Art Gallery dedicated to the great master of the Twentieth Century Osvaldo Licini, the State Archaeological Museum, the “Cartiera Papale” and the Roman Theatre are all worth visiting.
Macerata rises on a large hillside, like most of the most beautiful cities of the Marche. Its noble and stern aspect is softened by the warm colours of the rock and the bricks of the buildings in the historical centre where the historical University and surrounding walls are. The home town of Jesuit Matteo Ricci (Macerata, 1552 -
Fermo, thanks to its position offers a breathtaking view that ranges from the sea to the peaks of the Sibillini Mountains. It was inhabited since the Iron Age (10th – 3rd cent. B.C.) and then it was a Roman colony (Firmum Picenum) from the first half of the 3rd century A.D. For this reason, there are archaeological remains of megalithic walls which are the proof of the attest the Picenes origin of Fermo; The great underground tanks used for collecting water for the supply of the colony from the Roman area are preserved. Piazza del Popolo, of rare beauty and architectural design, is one of the most striking to visit; as well as Piazza del Girfalco, where the magnificent Cathedral stands. Not to be missed, the Polo Museale which includes Palazzo dei Priori, Cisterne, Teatro dell’Aquila, Villa Vitali and the Diocesan Museum.
Pesaro, already a Roman city, hosts the yearly Rossini Opera Festival and is home to the Fondazione Rossini, dedicated to the composer Gioacchino Rossini, one of the most important Italian composers of opera for the theatre. Not to be missed are the Palazzo Ducale, Liberty Square, in front of which the “Large Sphere” floats on a mirror made of water, cast in bronze and made in 1998 by the sculptor Arnaldo Pomodoro, the Diocesan Museum and the Rossini House. The pride of the city are: the civil museums, full of paintings and ceramic works, among which the famous Holy Conversation by Giovanni Bellini stands out, a masterpiece of Italian painting of the 15th century; the S. Giovanni public library and the “ Museo Archeologico Oliveriano”
Urbino, was a focal point of the Italian Renaissance and the birthplace of Raffaello Sanzio, in 1998 it was declared a UNESCO Heritage City. It is situated between the valleys of the rivers Metauro and Foglia, from which it is possible to enjoy a breathtaking view which embraces the surrounding hills, immortalised by Piero della Francesca in his paintings. An absolute must see is the Palazzo Ducale, masterpiece of the Renaissance period, full of works of art, among which the famous Studiolo by Federico da Montefeltro and where the National Gallery of The Marche is located, a unique sequence of extraordinary works that vary from the 13th century to Gothic sculptures, from Piero della Francesca to Raffaello, from Titian to Federico Barocci. In Urbino it is also possible to visit the Home of Raffaello Sanzio, known both for being his family house and as an eloquent example of a fifteenth-
Beyond these cities of a widely recognised great historical, architectural and cultural value, the biggest surprises in art are given to us by the less known cities which represent a chest of small hidden treasures, scattered over the entire territory.
FOOD & WINE. The discovery of authentic tastes and flavours
The Marche represents a unique reality in the food and wine sector and can be considered as the synthesis of Italian delicacies grouped on one land only, Italy in one region. In fact, precisely in virtue of the varied and articulate configuration of the territory, dominated by the mountains and overlooking the sea, different culinary traditions can be found as a result of the happy combination between nature, traditions and culture. The Marche boasts a tradition of food and wine made with simple and genuine ingredients, kind tastes where strong and decisive tasting dishes, mainly with meat, are alternated with dishes of shellfish, blue fish and fish salad
Truffle. The Marche is one of the few Italian regions to be able to boast an excellent production of all of the main types of truffles. The white truffle, the most precious, can be found above all in St. Angelo in Vado and Acqualagna, in the province of Pesaro and Urbino. The black truffle is spread out above all in Acqualagna, Cagli, Acquasanta Terme, Roccafluvione, Comunanza, Montefortino, Camerino and Visso. Mushrooms are very common and widespread throughout the mountains. There are many edible species: Porcini, St. Giorgio mushrooms, Caesar's Mushroom, morels, field mushrooms, chanterelle, grey knights, parasols and cloud funnels.
Cold Cuts. The history of cold cuts is intimately connected with the metayage origins of the population which used almost all parts of the pig for nourishment purposes, without wasting anything. From here originates the two most typical local cold cuts, the salami of Fabriano, much loved by Garibaldi, finds its origins in the better cuts of meat, that of the shoulder and the thigh, which are cut and salted, then larded and stuffed into casings within the gut of the pig itself; and the “Ciauscolo” , common overall in Macerata a PGI (Protected Geographic Indication), the lard is minced and mixed together with the meat creating a homogeneous dough that can be spread over the bread.
Other products are “coppa di testa” “mazzafegato”, “fegatelli” and "salsiccia matta". The wholesomeness of the meat from pigs raised in the Marche without a doubt come from their diet and the slaughtering method. Quality products are “lonza”, “lonzino”, “capocollo”, “pancetta arrotolata” and “porchetta”. Ham, one of top quality elements of a pig, is produced within the entire territory. “Prosciutto from Carpegna”(Carpegna Ham DOP) is one of the best known and requested ham both in Italy and abroad, also due to the European POD (DOP) recognition in 1996.
Oil. Thanks to the 7,200 hectare of vineyards, The Marche is a particularly suitable region to for the production of oil with great organoleptic properties. It is characterized by a fruity, balanced taste with bitter and spicy notes. Among the native varieties worthy of mention are Coroncina, Piantone di Falerone, Piantone di Mogliano, Sargano di Fermo, Orbetana, Mignola, Carboncella, Raggia, Raggiola and Cartoceto oil, which is identified as POD (DOP) (Protected Denomination of Origin). The quality of the oil is inextricably linked to the olive: very valuable is the tender Ascoli olive, which is unanimously considered to be the best green olive, all over the world it is known not only in brine, but also fried and stuffed “all‟ascolana” (Ascoli-
Cheeses. It is a land rich in pastures where cattle are fed in a natural way, producing rich and healthy milk. Therefore, there are many different types of cheese made from cow, sheep, goat and mixed milk, produced in the various areas of The Marche, such as Casècc, Caprino, Slattato, Raviggiolo, Quark, Ricotta and Cacio in the shape of a lemon. The various pecorino cheeses are very peculiar, characteristic of all mountain areas, where the curd is flavoured with marjoram, thyme, shoots of blackberry, clove, nutmeg, pepper, oil, egg yolk and grated pecorino. In the northern region is also the cheese stored in oak barrels, where it is left for three months and wrapped in walnut leaves or arranged in layers along with aromatic or pomace herbs. The casciotta from Urbino, a favourite of Michelangelo is also famous and its origins date back to 1500. It is made with sheep or cow's milk, with the addition of yeasts and curd. The shapes are immersed into brine and left for about a month in special temperature and humidity controlled preservation rooms. It is the only cheese from The Marche that boasts the protected denomination of origin (POD).
Wine and spirits. The hills in The Marche are the ideal location for the cultivation of vineyards and the production of sweet and aromatic grapes, ideal to obtain excellent quality wines. The gamut of wines produced in the region is, in fact, quite vast: 15 DOC (RDO) wines (Bianchello del Metauro, Colli Maceratesi, Colli Pesaresi, Esino, Falerio, I Terreni di San Severino, Lacrima di Morro d’Alba, Pergola, Rosso Conero, Rosso Piceno, Serrapetrona, Terre di Offida, Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi and Verdicchio di Matelica), 5 DOCG (GDO) wines (Conero, Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Riserva, Offida, Verdicchio di Matelica Riserva, Vernaccia di Serrapetrona,) and 1 Marche IGT (Typical Geographical Indication). There are numerous celebrations and festivals dedicated to the celebration of wine as well as itineraries throughout the territory in order to enjoy art, tradition and culture. It is well worth visiting the Regional Wine Store of the Marche in Jesi and Offida.
The distillation in The Marche region has ancient origins, thanks to the monks who, in the fifteenth century, devoted themselves with passion and talent to create reinvigorating drinks. Anise flavoured liqueurs are the most famous: Mistrà and Anisette come from the practice of flavouring alcohol, extracted from grape residues, with its essences. In Fano, Moretta Fanese has a peculiar history: originally it was a mixture of brandy, anise and rum invented at a local port bar in order to lace the coffee of seamen before departing for the sea or after their return from fishing, it had to be strong and reinvigorating. “Vin cotto”, “sapa”, “vin santo” “visner” or “vino di visciole” (aromatized drink with wine and sour cherries) derive from rural inland traditions.
Sweets. The autenticity of the Marche cuisine is also well expressed with its sweets, which are distinguished for the use of the raw materials from the territory and the simplicity of the preparation. Usually they contain very little sugar given that the same was once a precious commodity to be used sparingly and honey was used to sweeten the ingredients. They are nearly all of rural origin and were made on occasion of Carnival, religious celebrations or related to the various seasons. “Castagnole, Biscotti al vino, Marocchini, Sciughetti or polenta di mosto, Bostrengo, Salame di fichi, Frustingo, Ciambellone, Pizza sbattuta, Cicerchiata, Ravioli di marroni, Funghetti di Offida, Calcioni or Piconi, Frappe, croccante con le mandorle o con le noci, cavallucci di Cingoli, Cicerchiata etc…”
Fish. The best known regional fish based is "brodetto" (fish soup), for which the recipe can vary from one area to the next: “Anconetana”, “Fanese”, “San Benedettese” and that from “Porto Recanati”. Also famous are: sea devils in oil, garlic and rosemary; cuttlefish and peas; stockfish from Ancona; eggplants with anchovies; marinated anchovies; anchovy omelette; mackerel in tomato sauce.
The Marche is also famous for: honey, fruit and vegetables and biological products.
LE MARCHE -
2 national parks, 4 regional parks and 6 natural reserves
The Marche Region is initially a flat country to then become gently rolling and finally, at the feet of Monte Conero, with cliffs hanging over the sea,winding through orderly vineyards, verdant hills, mountains covered with dense forests and rocky plateaus. The Marche offers long and sandy beaches to lovers of water and sun, as well as romantic rocky coves. Within the inland you will find an extraordinary landscape, made up of green and golden hills, covered by woods and meadows that alternate in sweet harmony to orderly fields of wheat and olive groves. To the west are the Apennines Mountains and to the south the lofty peaks of Mount Sibylline that exceed 2 thousand metres. The latter beat the hearts of botanical enthusiasts and lovers of excursions and hiking
An extraordinary subterranean complex of natural caves exist in the Marche of such significant proportions and striking impact, that this alone is a reason for a trip. We are talking about the Frasassi Caves , near Genga, one of the most extensive and interesting natural monuments in Italy, they consist of a series of underground karst caves, discovered by the CAI speleological group of Ancona.
The Marche is also famous for the extension of the protected areas which cover a surface area of more than 90,000 hectares. The Region, in fact, boasts an exceptional number of national and regional parks and nature reserves established between the 80s and 90s of the 20th century. They have 2 national parks ( Sibylline Mountains and Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga), 4 regional parks (Sasso Simone and Simoncello, Gola della Rossa and di Frasassi, Monte San Bartolo and Monte Conero) and 6 natural reserves (Abbadia di Fiastra, Montagna del Torricchio, Gola del Furlo, Ripa Bianca, Sentina, Monte San Vicino and Monte Canfaito). The protected areas are characterized by good management and excellent maintenance of both the woods and trails both in the accommodation and information facilities. In spring the Parks are covered with the flourishing Apennines plant life, such as the cap lily, edelweiss, orchids, the bearberry and dwarf willow, considered the smallest tree in the world. The forests are populated by different animal species, such as the wolf, wild cat, porcupine, deer, Apennine chamois, golden eagle, the hawk, the eagle owl, peregrine falcon, the woodpecker and in some areas also the bear. The protected areas, however, have very different characteristics and within these areas co-
The Marche offers visitors the possibility to enjoy extraordinary natural beauties as well as being the ideal area to practice numerous sports. The Apennines mountains offer winter lovers the perfect slopes for both alpine skiing and cross-
SPORT AND LEISURE
In shape between nature and fun
The Marche Region is ideal for sports lovers or for those who simply like to practice outdoor sports. To stay in shape, to rediscover wellness or simply to just have fun. The peculiar conformation of the territory, very articulated and varied, allows you to go from the sea to to the hillside as well as the mountainside in merely a few hours, hence, offering many opportunities to practice your favourite sport. During the day it is possible to alternate between scuba diving excursions, enchanting horseback or mountain bike trails, to participate in beach volley tournaments, to try free climbing, perched on the white cliffs overlooking the sea. And not only this: the offer ranges from canoeing to “bocce”, from skating to flying, from bowling to golf, from speleology to archery. Therefore, the opportunities to be surrounded by nature and pass your leisure time in an enjoyable way while meeting other people and improving physical fitness, are not lacking in The Marche.
A deep relationship links The Marche and sport: In some sports such as motorcycling, fencing, swimming, basketball, rhythmic gymnastics, volleyball, table-
In our region sport represents an opportunity for growth and an excellent means of personal development and solidarity, because everyone including the disabled, can practice any kind of sport.
Winter Sports. The snowy mountain peaks of the Apennines offer slopes that are ideal for winter sports. Many of the ten ski resorts of the region are part of the provinces of Macerata and Ascoli Piceno, but also the province of Pesaro and Urbino offer ski-
Hiking. The mountains and hillsides of The Marche offer the possibility to live one of kind experiences, immersed in nature, to rediscover authentic scents, sights, sounds and colours, but also in close contact with a heritage rich in history, traditions, art and culture. While taking a walk, or between one slope and the other, not to be missed is the opportunity to visit the enchanting villages scattered across the territory in order to discover the authentic beauty and to learn about the great historical-
All of the trails are marked, modulated according to the different levels of difficulty in order to satisfy the demands of true experts as well as simple amateurs. The trail can be followed together with professionals and those who have an in depth knowledge of the territory as well as in complete autonomy thanks to the dense network of mountain huts, all well equipped and strictly authentic, which offer shelter and food to climbers during their hike.
Extreme sports. For those who wish to satisfy their need for movement and thirst for adventure by practising high adrenaline level sports, more demanding sports activities are available both along the coast and inland, such as gliding, hand gliding and paragliding. Rivers offering entertaining surprises are a must for those loving more courageous and daring watersports: the waters of the Metauro, for example, are ideal for lovers of canoeing and kayaking, to plunge into thrilling descents surrounded by breathtaking nature. In particular, the trail between the Frasassi Gorge and the Della Rossa Gorge near Genga represents one of the most striking and enchanting trails from a scenery viewpoint.
Bicycle. One of the most enjoyable ways to visit the region is by bicycle because it offers the possibility to appreciate, at the same time, the beauties of nature as well as those of art and history and to savour the typical cuisine of the territory while practising your favourite activity.
While not too challenging from a technical point, The Marche offers magnificent views to bikers and cyclists, where the green grass mingles with the thousands of colours within of the crops, with the blue of the sky or sea on the horizon, in order to lose oneself within the shadows of the mountains not too far away. The mountain bike trails are more challenging, especially those near the Acqualagna, nell‟alta Esino valley and on the Conero.
Golf. An exemplary destination for golf lovers that will find the perfect green on the well taken care of the turf full of little lakes. It comes as no surprise that recently many golf clubs have opened in The Marche, whose high level of quality is certified and periodically checked by the competent sports Committees. Furthermore, the landscape transmits its intrinsic quietness and serenity, therefore favouring concentration, a fundamental element in order to play this sport.
Horseback riding. Green woods and hills with beautiful views are the backdrop for experiencing the thrill of horseback riding in The Marche countryside. Horse riding is not only a sport, but it is a way of getting in touch with nature and the animal world, discovering their secrets in total freedom. There are many opportunities to try these activities ranging from small local riding schools in the many holiday farms for passing visitors to the larger riding centres that offer quality courses and trekking accompanied by an “equestrian guide” -
Marine water sports. The 180 kilometres of coastline, where many blue flags bearing fly as proof of the good water quality and bather friendliness, also offer the opportunity to practice all water sports. The rocky shores at the mountainside of Monte Conero, for example, are deemed as being the best for lovers of scuba diving; in the many ports dotted along the coast it is possible to rent sail and motor boats, as well as their utilities such as water, electricity, toilets and showers. It is possible to take surf, swimming, scuba diving, water skiing and windsurf courses.
THE ARTISAN MARCHE
The wise hands that work the materials
The Marche is a land rich with art, culture and ancient professions that have been handed down and that still exist today in artisan workshops. The strength of the regional economic model lies in these traditions, focused on the development of the small-
Among the oldest traditions is the working of leather, for which Tolentino is the authentic capital, it was founded in medieval times and today boasts a series of industries renowned worldwide.
Also famous worldwide is the secular processing of paper in Fabriano; the city has the Paper and Watermark Museum – where the workers, just as the ancient paper makers, turned rags into paper – and specialised shops for the sale of refined watermarks. There are various shops in the historical centre of the city where it is possible to purchase refined handmade paper items. Paper processing is also present in Pioraco that, as in Fabriano, has for centuries exploited the water of the nearby river, Potenza, for their fulling mills.
In Jesi (AN) there is the Studies and Arts of the Presses Museum, whose purpose is to document the history of typographic arts that in Jesi boasts a long tradition and to promote vocational training for those that intend to undertake a career in the activities connected to the printing of art in its various forms. The Museum is composed of a permanent exhibition that offers both examples of tools for printing (presses, cutters, pedals, lithography machines, movable type, printing plates, inks, composition bench) as well as samples of both ancient and modern volumes from the Planettiana library. The permanent exhibition is accompanied by education for schools and the creation of professional courses for the different printing techniques. In Urbino, Miniera, the Graphia Museum and the International Press Museum can both be visited. Conceived within the structure of the Corte della Miniera, it allows involving the visitor transforming the same from simply being part of the audience to a leading actor. The innovative aspect of this museum is represented by the possibility to explore the subject of printing, from its evolution and to interact in all of the stages of technical procedures and reproduction. The Marche boasts a consolidated tradition for the restoration of antique books, particularly the city of Urbino, where a school exists that is known at a national level.
Also in Fabriano is an important exhibition space, Museum of Bicycle Arts and Crafts entirely dedicated to the ancient craft on two wheels: a slice of Italian history between the Twenties and Sixties of the Twentieth century with objects, photographs and tales that take us back in time.
In the Marche, the making of musical instrumentsis also a flourishing activity, from the famous accordions in Castelfidardo, to the guitars of Recanati, to the lute making activity in Ascoli Piceno.
Famous worldwide is the International Accordion Museum in Castelfidardo (AN), located in the sixteen-
Another fascinating itinerary is that within the province of Pesaro and Urbino, in the ancient lands of the majolica, in order to discover the characteristic amateur made plates, jugs, apothecary jars, cups, drug jars and risers, still presently manufactured by shops within the territory. Majolica was discovered in medieval times and reached its glory during the Renaissance when, thanks to the patronage of Della Rovere, between Urbino, Urbania – then Casteldurante – and Pesaro, one of the most flourishing Italian industries was developed.
The first leg is made up of the Civil Museums of Pesaro inside which is the Ceramic Museum – one of the largest in Italy with rare specimens of the most famous buildings from the Renaissance to the Eighteenth century – and the National Gallery of Urbino: the Palazzo Ducale in fact houses, amongst other masterpieces, plates from Urbino dating back to the Renaissance era. The close by city of Urbania, once Casteldurante, offers two majolica collections in the Civil Museum, with cartoons and drawings by the potters of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, only in Italy, and in the Diocesan Museum.
In Pietrarubbia, Jesi, Loreto and Ascoli Piceno it is possible to visit other museums dedicated to ceramics. In particular the one in Ascoli Piceno, the Museum of Ceramic Art, has a very large collection and contains three
hundred pieces from the period between the fifteenth and the twentieth century. The works, from collections and deposits from the Civic Gallery, tell the story of the ceramic industry in Ascoli Piceno and its relations with the most important Italian schools of manufacturing.
Another flourishing regional artistic artisan sector is that of terracotta, from Montottone in Fermano, to Fratte Rosa in Pesaro. It is in this small village that the Museum of Terracotta and Earth stands which represents the entire local manufacturing procedure starting from the acquisition of the primary materials up to the most original and valuable manufactured goods.
In the area of Pesaro-
The Museum illustrates various species of dyeing plants, among which we also find the gaudo, known for its shade of blue used by Piero della Francesca, Renaissance painter whose works can be admired in the close by National Gallery of the Marche at Palazzo Ducale of Urbino.
The processing of wrought iron is spread out over the entire region: in towns and villages it is easy to find a hand crafted light post or balcony. One of the most flourishing areas in the mentioned sector is that of Ascoli, in particular Force and Comunanza, where the modern day coppersmiths hand down a tradition learned over the centuries.
The Marche also boasts a city, Jesi, where the goldsmith's shops can be found and which are also present in Fano and Fossombrone. The T.A.M. was opened at Pietrarubbia (centre for the Artistic Treatment of Metals), in the summer of 1990 by initiative of the Municipality of Pietrarubbia and in agreement with the sculptor Arnaldo Pomodoro. The Centre for years has been carrying out an important training activity for the protection and experimentation of artistic crafts connected to the processing of metals, from sculpture to jewellery. The permanent exhibit at the T.A.M.: can be visited where the most important works created by the students of the course can be viewed, through an exhibition organised during the summer.
At Offida, in Ascoli, the art of bobbin lace has been passed down for at least five centuries and every summer there is an exhibit displaying the masterpieces made by the lacemakers. In the Bobbin Lace Museum in Offida (AP) ancient and modern works are exhibited, belonging to outfits made from the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. The exhibition follows a typological order, from the processing techniques, to lace and its wide range of uses.
In Macerata at the Laboratory “The Canvas” by Ginesi and Varagona the art of weaving on hand looms is still practised. It the textile sector it is to be pointed out that around Cantiano and Mercatello sul Metauro, in Pesaro, rustic woollen carpets are manufactured. Famous throughout the world is also the manufacturing of furniture in particular in Pesaro, and equally widespread is the practice of restoring antique furniture, in Pollenza, Amandola, Fermo, Corinaldo and Ostra.
The processing of rattan, wicker and bamboo, is widespread in the area of Macerata that braided give life to purses, containers of various forms, knick-
Fermano, from Montappone to Massa Fermana, is the realm of handmade hats, honoured by the Hat Museum in Montappone (FM): dedicated entirely to the history of this accessory, it houses old machines dating back to 800, restored and functioning, equipment to make hats of any type and dimension: from the sombrero (146 centimetres in diameter) to a small doll hat (2 centimetres), straw hats from the nineteenth century, up to the hat of the director Federico Fellini. The exhibition includes a collection of evocative images from the period, interesting movies as well as temporary exhibitions often dedicated to hats that made history in the movies.
Very widespread in The Marche, from Cagli to Pesaro with Mastro de Pajaa, from Loreto to Recanati, is the making of wooden pipes. In Fermano there is the “Nicola Rizzi” Pipe Museum, inaugurated in 2005 with a collection of pipes coming from all over the world, some of which are extremely rare and valuable.
Not to be forgotten is the tradition of processing stone, from the travertine of Ascoli Piceno to the tradition of the stonemasons of S. Ippolito in Cagli.
In Fermano, which has always been great land of manufacturing productions, it is possible to visit the Shoe Museum Cav. Vincenzo Andolfi in Sant’Elpidio a Mare (FM). This structure is created with the intention of exploiting the enormous productive assets and, therefore, to guard a crucial part of the city's history, finding the right recognition with the presentation of an important exhibition space inside the old Convent of the Philippines, in the city centre.
Antiques are also widespread in The Marche: there are many events in the summer for antiques. From the national exhibition in Sarnano, from May to June, to the market exhibit in Fermo, in July and August, from the regional exhibit in Ostra, in August, to the Antique Expo, Restoration and Artistic Artisan Crafts in Pollenza in July. During the year, there are antique market exhibits in Fano, Pesaro, Urbino, Ancona, Recanati, Sassoferrato, Tolentino, Ascoli Piceno, Grottammare and San Benedetto del Tronto.
SPIRITUAL MARCHE
The marches offers to the tourist, an extraordinary series of paths and monuments, expression of a spirituality that has featured this territory since the advent of christianity.
Camaldolese, cistercians and franciscans have covered the territory of monasteries, abbeys and convents, most of which has become place of great pilgrimages and can be visited still today.
The most important is the marian sanctuary of loreto.
A complete route is dedicated to the discovery of the symbolic places of the christianity, that distinguish the spiritual imagine of the marches.
LORETA AND THE "SANTA CASA"
The town of Loreto developed around the famous Basilica that contains the “Santa Casa” (the Holy House of Nazareth) where, according to tradition, the Virgin Mary was born, lived and received the announcement of the miraculous birth of Jesus. Tradition says that, when in 1291 the Muslims finally expelled the Christians from Jerusalem and then tried to regain Nazareth, a group of angels took care of the House and, after some wanderings, spreading their wings took it to Loreto. For this reason, the Madonna of Loreto is venerated as the patroness of aviators. Studies highlight that the origin of the House is Palestine in view of both the architectural style and the use of construction materials, unknown to the Marche territory and instead widely used in the Holy Land at the time. A recent theory, supported by the discovery of documents written after 1294, asserts that the transfer was the work of the Angeli Comneno princes, a branch of the imperial family of Constantinople, who carried the stones by ship. Both theories, in any event, concur that the House left Nazareth in 1291, passed through Dalmatia, remaining for about three years in Trsat (now a district of the town of Rijeka in Croatia), and arrived in Loreto on the night of December 9th-
BASILICA OF SAINT NICHOLAS OF TOLENTINO
The Basilica of Saint Nicholas of Tolentino is one of the most important sanctuaries of central Italy. St. Nicholas of Tolentino (1245-
THE MARCHE REGION: FORTRESS AND CASTLES
In the Marche region, whose name derives from the German word «Mark», meaning "border”, the distance from the Imperial power centre allowed the birth of independent municipalities; later on, during the 14th and 15th century, they were transformed into independent states and areas ruled by families in constant conflict one against the other. This historical background explains the great diffusion of fortresses and castles throughout the region, witnessing a lively cultural past open to the experiments of the most renowned military architects of the time.
In the territory corresponding today to the province of Pesaro and Urbino, the Malatestas were the first one to adopt new defensive solutions. For the Fano fortress they requested the technical advice of Filippo Brunelleschi and the expertise of Matteo Nuti. The Sforzas followed such example for the Gradara Castle, a place surrounded by myth, history, and legend. Placed on the peak of a hill between the Romagna and Marche territories, Gradara (PU) is one of the most beautiful Italia boroughs, still preserving its historical-
The city of Pesaro and its Rocca Costanza built by the famous architect Luciano Laurana plays an important role in the history of the region. This building is named after Costanza Sforza, who succeeded her father Alessandro in the rule of the city in 1473. It is a typical fortress conceived according to the needs of a flat city, which is next, but not anchored, to one of the extreme points of the big squared Urbino walls, dating back to the Malatesta age.
For the defensive works, the Montefeltros asked a support to the genial Francesco di Giorgio Martini; in the surrounding area they gave life to many fortresses and buildings, such as the Ducal Palace in Urbino and Ducal Palace in Urbania, both considered real Renaissance masterpieces.
Among the fortified buildings there is the Fortress of Sassocorvaro, hosting today the Museum “L’Arca dell’Arte” (The ark of the art), born to remember the rescue of thousand of art works during the Second World War by Pasquale Rotondi. The Fortress of Monte Cerignone today can by rent for great ceremonies; the Fortress of Fossombrone is strategically placed on the top of the city; the Fortress and Tower in Cagli are the first ones presented in Francesco di Giorgio Martini’s notebooks and are also the most relevant examples of the wider series of military buildings developed by this architect in the Marche region. Eventually, the Fortress of Frontone represents today one of the most emblematic example of the 11th-
The Della Roveres left their mark in the Fortress of Mondavio hosting today the Museum of historical revival and armoury, in the Ducal Palace in Pesaro – wanted by Alessandro Sforza – and in the magnificent Villa Imperiale in Pesaro, developed by Girolamo Genga.
Down along the coast, there is the Rocca Roveresca in Senigallia (AN) with its strategic position: an example of Renaissance military building, even though it replaced the previous Roman fortress. In 1350, Cardinal Egidio Albornoz completed a small fort by including a pre-
The city of Senigallia also opens the way to discover the fortresses and castles in the Ancona province. Another tragic love story found its set here: Piero and Sara, two lovers killed by the mean Count of Rovellone, a feudatory who was also in love with Sara and that decided to kidnap her; after a failed attempt, he started a violent fight that caused the murder of Sara and her betrothed Piero. The set for this tragedy is the Medieval Castle of Pierosara di Genga (AN), a well-
Near the city of Ancona, in Falconara, there is the Fortress Priora with its beautiful portal made by Vanvitelli and the Castle dating back to the 7th – 12th century. It was one of the 20 castles in the Ancona area.
The Fortress of Offagna (AN) dominates the Medieval borough on its feet and was built by the Ancona people to defend the Western borders; every year, in July, there are Medieval fairs. Inside its halls there is the Weapon Museum. Travelling inland there is the beautiful village of Serra San Quirico (AN), at the feet of the Apennines, with its unique defensive wall and the typical parapet walks, called “Le Coppertelle”.
Enchanted and well-
In the hinterland, Corinaldo (AN) was ruled by the Malatestas and then by the Papal State, dominating the Cesano and Misa valleys with the intact surrounding wall. Upwards the Misa valley, there is Arcevia (AN) with its castles surrounded by the typical Medieval atmosphere. The territory around this Middle-
masterpieces together with the typical objects used for the popular devotion. Among these castles there is the Castle of Avacelli dating back to the 13th century, the Castle of Castiglioni (14th century), built on the border with Serra de’ Conti; this castle still presents an elegant and fortified portal enriched by the Rocca Contrada (Arcevia) crest. The castle of Montale (13th century) was seized by Arcevia from the Senigallia bishop in the 13th century and, during the Middle Age, it was defined by the warrior Francesco Malatesta as “well armed for hand-
In the Vallesina there is Jesi with the castles of Verdicchio, a small and elegant Medieval borough famous for being Federico II’s birthplace. The fortified buildings were erected when in the Middle Age the strong municipality of Jesi started the conquest of its countryside, dominating it as a defence. The Jesi countryside is composed of 18 castles, including Belvedere Ostrense, Castelbellino, Castelplanio, Cupramontana, Maiolati Spontini, Mergo, Monsano, Montecarotto, Monteroberto, Morro d’Alba, Poggio San Marcello Rosora, San Marcello, San Paolo di Jesi, Santa Maria Nuova, Serra de’ Conti, Serra San Quirico, Staffolo; for over 6 centuries, the city and the Esino valley shared the same history and, due to very close interdependence bounds, a fabric of relationships was born and still is alive today.
Also Fabriano (AN) expresses its magnificence with a number of castles, originally built to defend the territory and that still today preserve the typical countryside borough style. The Castle of Bastia was built under Francesco Sforza’s rule of Fabriano and was integrated in the defensive system of the territory born in the municipality era. Another important Medieval building is the Castle of Castelletta, surrounded by a savage mountain chain, which was originally a property of the Rovellone landlords and subsequently transferred to the Fabriano municipality in the 14th century. The residential nucleus that developed around the castle still maintains its typical and unique style due to a number of reasons: the limited economic resources, a strong love for the tradition, and the farming activity. The Castle of Collimato is placed in one of the most intact and beautiful landscapes of the entire Fabriano area, on sunny and sweet hills rich of vineyards and pastures. Its origins date back to the Barbarian invasions by the Attidium people, looking for a shelter after their city’s destruction. The available documents talk about their passage under the Fabriano dominium between the end of the 12th century and the beginning of the 13th century. The parish church contains frescoes by unknown Marche painters and by Domiziano Domiziani, dating back to the 15th-
Some of the most beautiful castles of the region are close one another in the Macerata province, where the Camerino lords wanted their cities to be surrounded by an impressive castle system. In the Camerino territory, the lords Da Varano surrounded this nice city with a majestic system of fortresses, including Rocca d’Aiello and Rocca da Varano; Castelraimondo hosts the impressive Castle of Lanciano, witnessing the Medieval fortified buildings that still today are well-
All municipalities are placed in a radial pattern around Macerata and a visit should definitely be paid to San Severino Marche (MC), with a Medieval nucleus in the highest part of the city and two big towers, and to Tolentino (MC), hosting the majestic Castel of the Rancia, with the Archeological museum Aristide Gentiloni Silverj and other temporary exhibitions. Still in the Macerata area, there is the military fortress of Urbisaglia, dating back to the beginning of the 16th century and including the remains of the previous Medieval buildings. Treia is also near Macerata and has seven entrance doors and well visible towers, together with the three castles originally built on three peaks: the castle of Onglavina, the castle of Ecle, and the castle of Cassero, linked to other two fortified buildings: the castles of San Lorenzo and Pitino, respectively placed near the mountain and over the Potenza valley, towards San Severino Marche.
Also Visso (MC), called “the pearl of Monti Sibillini", is an enchanting mountain centre, famous for the typical middle-
Another enchanting village is Sarnano (MC), the ideal centre for a number of relaxing activities, to take care of the health and the body; it is also a winter sports centre. It has many peculiarities under the historical, artistic, and environmental point of view. The residential centre is clearly divided between the well-
In the Ascoli region and its surroundings along the Via Salaria, there is the Fortress of Arquata del Tronto dated 13th century and dominating the valley and the ancient Roman way under the shadow of Monti Sibillini; Castel di Luco is a Medieval fortress near Acquasanta Terme (AP) where it is possible to be accommodated in 15th-
There are so many castles and fortresses in the Marche region witnessing the various dominations of the past centuries. Many of these buildings are well preserved and easily accessible for the tourists that want to spend here either one or several days to follow personalized itineraries.
The Archaeological Marche Region
Sites, excavations and archaeological parks to visit
A region so rich in history as The Marche could not be without the evidence of past civilizations that denote the antiquity of this region and have great importance. Archaeology is indeed relevant in the panorama of The Marche’s cultural landscape.
Starting from the prehistory of The Marche, there has been some evidence of this period preserved mainly in the Museo Speleopaleontologico ed Archeologico [Speleological and Archaeological Museum] in Genga (AN), also famous for the stunning Frasassi Caves. In the exhibition space, housed in the old monastery of the Abbazia di San Vittore [Abbey of Saint Victor], there are areas of palaeontology, geology, archaeology and speleology. The most important is the ichthyosaur that lived in the Late Jurassic, the so-
The geo-
Also in the Province of Pesaro, the Museo Geo Territoriale of Cantiano (PU), which is part of the Complesso di Sant’Agostino [Complex of Saint Augustine], shows a didactic presentation and examples of the birth and development stages of planet Earth, beginning the visit with the stratigraphic sequence of the Umbrian-
In the Fermano area, in Montefalcone Appennino (FM), the Museo dei Fossili e di Storia Naturale [Museum of Fossils and of Natural History] is located in some parts of Palazzo Felici and is divided into several sections. In particular, in the section on local fossils, there are about twelve hundred seventy pieces on display, which testify to the characteristics of marine environments during the later Pliocene Era. The exhibition of fossils, from around the world, is interesting for the presence of particular pieces, such as parts of the skeleton of a cave bear from the Pyrenees, mammoth tusks from the North Sea, fish fossils and a dinosaur egg from China.
In the province of Ascoli Piceno, in the Musei della Cartiera Papale [Museums of the Papal Paper Mill], the important naturalistic and technical-
Also in the province of Macerata, in the capital, the Museo di Storia Naturale [Museum of Natural History], divided into various sections, has a rich section dedicated to palaeontology: among the numerous fossils from the Macerata area, fossilized flora finds and a large amount of invertebrates should be noted.
Browsing through the various eras, in The Marche, there are interesting necropolises, embellished by impressive and rich sets of burial tombs, dating back to the Piceno Era and identified, in particular, in Pesarese at Novilara, in Anconetano at Numana and Fabriano, in Maceratese at Matelica and Pitino and Fermano at Belmonte Piceno.
In the different provinces of the territory, seven archaeological parks have been established that value the Roman era of these important towns and garrisons: Forum Sempronii, in San Martino del Piano (Fossombrone) in the province of Pesaro and Urbino, Sentinum south of Sassoferrato and Suasa Senonum in Castelleone di Suasa in the province of Ancona, Septempeda in San Severino Marche and Urbs Salvia in Urbisaglia in the province of Macerata, Falerius Picenus in Piane, two kilometres from present Falerone in the province of Fermo, Cupra Marittima to the north of the town of Cupra Marittima in the province of Ascoli Piceno. Alongside these major archaeological parks there are also museums that jealously protect the relics of distant civilizations and different ages.
The Marche Region has made a video with miniclips dedicated to the Greek presence in Le Marche, archaeological parks, the Roman roads Flaminia and Salaria, the Bronzes of Cartoceto and the Arch of Trajan visible from the door of the museums: http://musei.cultura.marche.it.
Ancona -
Nearby Numana, ancient Piceno port, maintained important relations with the Greek civilization and boasts an important state museum, also known for princely funereal objects from the Piceno Era: the Antiquarium Statale di Numana [State Antiquarium of Numana], housed in a building owned by the municipal administration, that was established and opened in 1974. Currently under renovation, a preliminary sampling of materials from the tomb of Picena Princess Sirolo (late sixth century BC) is shown: the circular monumental tomb had very rich objects, whose materials are still being recovered, with two wagons of different types (a chariot and a horse-
Between the fourth and third centuries BC The Marche-
Right in Arcevia is the Museo Archeologico Statale [State Archaeological Museum], founded in 1996 thanks to the joint efforts of the Archaeological Superintendant for The Marche and the municipal administration. The museum is located in restored and modernized premises, adjacent to the Cloister of San Francesco. The structure has the function of a museum district, with an explanatory-
In the area of Ancona, do not miss the Parco Archeologico di Sentinum [Sentinum Archaeological Park] in Sassoferrato (AN), with the currently visible remains of the Roman town of Sentinum, which constitute only a small portion of ancient urban extension. Here it is possible to visit an impressive public building for thermal use, from the late Republican period, a building used as a foundry and the remains of a large suburban complex from the Imperial era dating back to the first century AD.
Connected to the park and just as interesting is the Museo Archeologico Sentinate [Sentinate Archaeological Museum] in Sassoferrato (AN) in a renovated setting within the structure of the fourteenth century Palazzo dei Priori, which is located to offer the visitor a very beautiful setting with a reconstructed model of the Battle of Sentinum.
The Parco Archeologico Città Romana di Suasa [Roman City of Suasa Archaeological Park] in Castelleone di Suasa (AN) is famous; there you can visit the Forum mall with shops and workshops, two burial grounds, the amphitheatre built in the late first century BC, private dwellings and especially the rich patrician Domus dei Coiedii, with prestigious settings of magnificent mosaics with mythological, floral and geometric scenes. This site is of particular relevance, in fact, the Roman municipium of Suasa stood along the diverticulum of the Via Flaminia leading from Vicus Cales (Cagli) in Sena Gallica (Senigallia) and was an important centre of the Valle del Cesano.
This park also has a valuable Museo Civico Archeologico "A. Casagrande" a Castelleone di Suasa (AN) [“A. Casagrande” Archaeological Museum] in Castelleone di Suasa (AN) located in the centre of the country. This permanent exhibition is located in the splendid setting of the sixteenth century Palazzo della Rovere. The visit is divided into five sections, and presents the results of the excavations that have occurred from 1987 until now in the urban area of Suasa, with particular regard to the materials from the area housing the large domus dei Coiedii.
The prestigious medieval city of Jesi (AN) houses the Museo Archeologico e del territorio [Museum of Archaeology and of the Land] at the new complex of San Floriano, located in an old building from the eighteenth century, the former Church of San Floriano. The new museum collection, regarding the district of the middle of the Esino valley, is located in the heart of the city's historical centre, where the forum of ancient Roman colony of Aesis opened. The archaeological finds, mostly of the state, are conveniently divided into three sections of the museum: prehistory, protohistory and the Roman era. In Osimo (AN), however, is the Museo Civico (Sezione archeologica) e Lapidario Comunale [City Museum (Archaeological section) and Municipal Lapidarium], with objects directly associated with the eponymous Roman municipality. In this space, some artefacts of great scientific interest are displayed, from private collections, loaned to the Museum, like biting horses with stylized figures of horses, an Etruscan invoice (9th century B.C.), or the boat-
Even Senigallia (AN) offers an interesting archaeological environment with the Area archeologica e Museo “La Fenice” [“La Fenice” Archaeological Area and Museum]. During the foundation works of the New Theatre "La Fenice", in 1989, there were important Roman finds, then the object of systematic excavations.The museum, which parallels the Roman structures discovered in recent excavations, tells the story of the ancient town of Senigallia and the region descends into the reality of an urban excavation and fits construction, in a non-
Many Roman traces have been found through history, after the battle of Sentinum, fought in 295 B.C. between Gauls and Samnites against the Romans and Piceno, in the area in between Camerino and Sassoferrato – the ancient Sentinum – the Romans occupied the Gallic territory and they wanted to highlight the cultural specificity, calling it ager gallicus. Over the next two centuries, they penetrated the rest of the region and built the consular road Flaminia linking Rome with Fano, and the Via Salaria, already a Piceno road, which from Porto d’Ascoli secured Adriatic Sea salt for the Romans.
Records of Roman colonies and municipalities are still visible in the grid of some cities like Pesaro, Fano, Senigallia, Jesi and Ascoli Piceno for their conformation and their urban grid.
The journey through ancient The Marche continues with the province of Pesaro-
Also in this area, of particular interest is the equestrian group found in Cartoceto di Pergola and bronze sculpture attributed to Lysippus found in the waters off Fano and currently on display at the Getty Museum in Malibu, California. The Museo dei Bronzi Dorati [Museum of Gilded Bronzes] in Pergola (PU) is fascinating, including an art-
Also in the north of The Marche, you can visit the Museo del Lapidario di Urbino [Lapidary Museum of Urbino], on the ground floor of the Palazzo Ducale. This space contains a rich collection of inscriptions consisting of two parts: the former involves the collection ordered by R. Fabretti (1619-
In Fano (PU), however, there is the Museo Civico e Pinacoteca del Palazzo Malatestiano [Museum and Art Gallery of Palazzo Malatesta] established in 1898 and set up in the northeast wing of the Malatesta Palace, built by Pandolfo III between 1413 and 1421. The museum documents the prehistoric settlement of the territory of Fano and the civilizations of the colony and the Roman city. The Arch of Augustus in Fano (PU) is also famous, the Roman gate to the city where the ancient Via Flaminia, at the city walls, became part of the city’s decumanus maximus, in this way, marking its beginning. It has always been a symbol of the city.
In Acqualagna (PU), there is the Antiquarium Pitinum Mergens, a municipal museum opened in 2002, housed in the old town hall of the city, in a building dating probably from the sixteenth century. The uniqueness of this museum is that it offers visitors the opportunity to know in detail the structure, functions and materials typical of a Roman farm between the Republican period and the first century of the empire.
It also stresses the fundamental role played by the Via Flaminia in the military conquest and Romanization of the area. In fact, right in Acqualagna a tunnel rises 38.3 metres, which the ancients called petra pertusa or forulus, hence the name Furlo tunnel. This was excavated in its narrowest point by Vespasian in 77 AD to allow the crossing of the Apennines from the Tyrrhenian to the Adriatic.
Roman remains are also found in Cagli (PU), in the Museo Archeologico e della via Flaminia [Museum of Archaeology and of the Via Flaminia] recently inaugurated, is located on the premises on the ground floor of the Palazzo Comunale di Cagli, and specially restored. In the collection, there are materials that have been kept for some time by the Municipality: amphorae from the 2nd century A.D., a female head, a mosaic, bricks and marble capital from the 4th century A.D., all of which relate to the Roman resort of Cale. Not far from the museum, the Ponte Mallio is located, whose name comes from a false inscription quoted where the character M. Allius was cited. The structure, built in the early republican era, presents itself as one of Rome’s most impressive works of those existing along the Via Flaminia.
Always connected to the Roman ruins in the area is to visit in Cantiano, the Ponte Grosso, one of the best preserved and most significant bridges of the Via Flaminia, a massive structure with two arches.
Also in the same province, in Casteldelci (PU), there is the Casa-
Even Macerata Feltria (PU) has numerous archaeological finds in the Museo Civico Paleontologico [City Paleontological Museum], established in 1995, located in the Palazzo del Podesta (12th century) and the Torre Civica. The museum houses, in addition to an extensive archaeological collection, a large paleontological collection, donated by Arnaldo and Gino Rinaldi.
In the provincial capital, in Pesaro, is the famous Museo Archeologico Oliveriano [Oliveriano Archaeological Museum], which takes its name from the Annibale degli Abbati Olivieri Giordani (1708 -
The Museo Archeologico “Tifernum Mataurense” [“Tifernum Mataurense” Archaeological Museum] in Sant'Angelo in Vado (PU) is a collection of ancient Roman inscriptions, and everyday objects donated by private citizens. In an area adjacent to the city, the Roman town of Tifernum Mataurense is located, documented by a large group of Roman inscriptions.
In San Lorenzo in Campo (PU) the Museo Archeologico del Territorio [Territorial Archaeological Museum] stands, in brand new exhibition area reopened in December 2007, dedicated to the history of the of the Cesano valley, its geomorphologic evolution, human settlement from prehistoric to Roman times, until the early Middle Ages and the rise of the Abbey. The exhibition is simple and easy to walk-
In the rich area of Pesaro, it is also worth mentioning the Centro di Documentazione Archeologica a Novilara [Centre for Archaeological Documentation in Novilara], opened in 1997 by the city of Pesaro and the local district, in collaboration with the Archaeological Superintendent of The Marche and the University of Bologna Department of Archaeology. The Centre was designed and built with a view to being a diffuse museum, presenting itself as a pole of attraction and solicitation of local Novilara knowledge in its archaeological, historical, architectural, environmental and natural aspects.
Moving to the south of the region, in San Severino Marche (MC), it is worth visiting the Parco Archeologico di Settempeda [Archaeological Park of Settempeda], corresponding to the Roman city, on the left side of the Potenza river, situated a short distance from the current town and destroyed during the barbarian invasions. Thanks to the excavations a large bathhouse is visible, consisting of a series of rooms arranged around a central courtyard and an artisan complex with kilns for the production of ceramics. Connected to the park and named after the renowned scholar Giuseppe Moretti is the Archaeological Museum in San Severino Marche (MC): the exhibition includes a prehistoric section, which contains stone tools and pottery from the Pascucci collection, and a Piceno section, where tombs are exhibited from the Necropolis of Pitino.
Also in the same area, in Urbisaglia (MC), there is the Parco Archeologico di Urbs Salvia [Archaeological Park of Urbs Salvia], which includes the area of the Roman colony of Urbs Salvia, which developed in the Augustan era according to a unified development plan. The major monumental buildings and architectonic works built in this phase are still legible: you can visit the Roman cistern, the auditorium of the theatre (1st century A.D.), The stage building and proscenium, decorated with Pompeian style paintings, the paved terraces, the Augustan temple of the Salus Augusta with valuable frescoes are still visible. During the summer, theatre seasons are hosted in the province of Macerata at the Roman Amphitheatre (1st century A.D.) of ancient “Urbs Salvia”, currently Urbisaglia, where there are both ancient comedies of Plautus and Greek tragedies.
Also in this area, you can visit the Museo Archeologico Statale di Urbisaglia [State Archaeological Museum of Urbisaglia], opened in 1996, offers a rich display of materials from excavations in the Roman town of Urbs Salvia, a program aimed to explore the themes of the Romanization of the site. On the ground floor, a virtual representation of the city provides a practical approach with the grandiose monuments that can be visited in the Archaeological Park; a whole room is devoted to the Augustan Temple of the Salus Augusta, whereas another one has a rare marble omphalos on view. Upstairs are the portraits found in cryptoporticus, the frescoes on the walls, the statues from the theatre and monumental inscriptions from the amphitheatre that provide a tangible demonstration of the wealth of the city in the early Imperial era. On display are numismatic and epigraphic collections and a vast sampling of common ceramics. Of special importance are two small fragments of the Consular and Triumphal Fasti, among the few engraved on stone known outside Rome.
In the province of Macerata, the Museo Archeologico Statale [State Archaeological Museum] of Cingoli (MC): open to the public since 1994 and enlarged in 1997, the museum was created around a core group exhibition that presented the results of the excavations of Moscosi Plan (Piano di Fonte Marcosa) and had an almost continuous attendance from the Middle Bronze Age until the Roman era.
The exhibition now occupies part of the sixteenth century Palazzo Raffaelli, and is organized in chronological order: Palaeolithic, Neolithic-
There are also many archaeological museums in the province of Macerata, including the Archaeological Museum in Camerino (MC), located in the convent of San Domenico. The collection of archaeological material includes various architectural fragments and inscriptions, including one from 210 A.D. dedicated to Septimius Severus, and a polychrome mosaic floor from the second century A.D. In a few cases, there are collections of ceramics, bronzes and coins of different ages and backgrounds. In Matelica (MC), the Archaeological Museum is housed in Palazzo Finaguerra, a historical building once belonging to the homonymous Matelica family, located near the monumental complex of San Francesco. The museum consists of archaeological finds from Matelica and found the area, mainly during recent excavations.
In Muccia, a small town in the Macerata countryside, there is the Museo Archeologico “Muccia: antico crocevia dell’Appennino” [“Muccia: ancient crossroads of the Apennines” Archaeological Museum]. From a joint initiative between the Archaeological Superintendant of The Marche, “La Sapienza” University in Rome and the University of Pisa, in the years 2001-
The Mostra Archeologica Permanente “Divi & Dei” [Permanent Archaeological Exhibition “The Divine & the Gods”], displayed in Porto Recanati (MC) that exhibits white marble statues from the archaeology of the Roman city of Potentia and represents a first step towards a permanent exhibition of this city.
The passion for archaeology in The Marche is also demonstrated with the Laboratorio di restauro archeologico e paleontologico [Laboratory of Archaeological and paleontological restoration] in Serravalle di Chienti (MC). Under an agreement between the University of Camerino, the municipality of Serravalle and the Superintendent for Archaeological Heritage of The Marche, with the goal of researching and promoting the archaeological and paleontological heritage of the municipality of Serravalle, the Laboratory has made permanent restoration of exhibition of the archaeological and paleontological heritage in many localities in the area.
Very well known, in Tolentino (MC) is the Museo Archeologico dell’Abbazia di Santa Maria di Chiaravalle di Fiastra [Archaeological Museum of the Abbey of Santa Maria of Chiaravalle di Fiastra], collecting inscriptions, portraits, statues and fragments of amphorae belonging to different periods. In the same city, the Museo Civico Archeologico “A. Gentiloni Silverj” [“A. Gentiloni Silverj” Museum of Archaeology] stands, as well: the archaeological collection consists of the collection left to the Town of Tolentino by Count Aristide Gentiloni Silverj, including a large number of finds of exceptional importance and quality.
Always of high historical and artistic importance is the Archaeological Museum of Treia (MC), housed at the Convent of San Francesco, devoted primarily to material from the Roman town of Trea, largely found during excavations directed towards the end of the eighteenth century by Fortunato Benigni from Treia. Inside many fragments of sculpture, architectural elements and inscriptions which document various historical and cultural contexts are preserved, from the Piceno to the Roman era, not to mention the close link the city with the East and in particular Egypt, also became evident by finds at the Santuario del SS. Crocifisso [Shrine of the Holy Crucifix].
In the province of Fermo, it is possible to visit the Parco Archeologico di Falerius Picenus [Archaeological Park of Falerius Picenus] in Falerone (FM), formed mainly from the urban area of the ancient city from which it takes its name. You can also visit a monumental building of inestimable historical and artistic value that stands isolated in the middle: this is one of the best preserved Roman theatres in The Marche, in which you can still see the first and second order of the steps and the proscenium with circular and rectangular niches. Both sites are inserted into an archaeological park with the related Museo Archeologico Antiquarium “P. Bonvicini” [“P. Bonvicini” Museum of Archaeology and Antiquarium]. (For further information: www.amatmarche.net).
According to Festo, the Piceno were so named because the Sabines who migrated to Ausculum, today Ascoli, had as a symbol a woodpecker, picus, a bird sacred to Mars, perched along the way on their banner: this would have given the name of Piceni or Picentes.
The discovery of numerous cemeteries scattered between the Foglia river in the north and south of Pescara in Abruzzo, has revealed the existence, between the eighth and first centuries BC, of a cultural facies which was given the name of the Piceno civilization, the protagonist of the historical events of Central Italy until the final conquest of the territories by the Romans. The Archaeological Park is right in these areas, in Cupramarittima (AP), which preserves relics from the Lower and Middle Palaeolithic. Its history in the Piceno period is particularly important in relation to the shrine dedicated to the goddess Cupra: rich necropoli dating from the sixth century B.C. document an extremely articulate reality, at the time of settlement. The Archaeological Museum of the Territory of Cupra Marittima (AP) shows the archaeological materials from the area, recovered through excavations conducted by the Superintendent for Archaeological Heritage of The Marche and investigates surface activities conducted by local Archeoclub.
In the provincial capital, Ascoli Piceno, you can visit the rich Museo statale Archeologico di Ascoli Piceno [State Archaeological Museum], housed in the Palazzo Panichi, presenting an overview of the findings of the territory of Ascoli, incorporating both the rich collection of Ascoli, created in 1865 on the basis of the eighteenth-
In the Piceno territories, remember the Museo Archeologico Comunale [Municipal Archaeological Museum] in Carassai (AP), whose original nucleus dates back to the 1950s and 1960s and is the work of Monsignor L. Zega, who collected materials that sporadically surfaced (mostly pottery fragments, coins, bricks) from accidental discoveries. In the 1980s, the small collection was enriched with other archaeological materials that surfaces. The museum now has about 400 artefacts, more than half of which are Roman, with the presence of a small number of pre-
In Cossignano (AP), the Antiquarium Comunale “N. Pansoni” [“N. Pansoni” Municipal Antiquarium] is based. The core of the collection dates back to the 1920s and comes from the private collection of Niccola Pansoni, made up of finds from archaeological excavations conducted in the district of Fiorano maybe in 1924. Later, the collection was enhanced with findings from other small donations and erratic materials or surface finds. At present the Cossignano Antiquarium contains about 500 archaeological finds – most of which date back to the Piceno civilization – with the presence of pre-
In Offida (AP), the Museo Archeologico “Guglielmo Allevi” [“Guglielmo Allevi” Archaeological Museum], located in the Palazzo Pagnanelli, is home to the large archaeological collection of the Marchese Guglielmo Allevi (Offida 1834-
In the province of Ascoli Piceno is the Museo Civico Archeologico “C. Cellini” [“C. Cellini” Archaeological Museum] in Ripatransone (AP) dating back to 1877 when the Reverend Caesar Cellini (1832-
In the province of Fermo are the three main archaeological museums with a local character: the Archaeological Museum in Falerone (FM), which maintains a collection formed in 1777, expanded in later centuries with artefacts unearthed from the site of the ancient Falerio Picenus (today the village of Piane di Falerone); the Museo Archeologico sezione picena “Fermo: dai Villanoviani ai Piceni” [Archaeological Museum Piceno section “Still: from Villanovans to Piceni”] in Fermo, whose foundation dates from the late nineteenth century and originates from the merger of three major collections from the city, a small collection donated by the architect Fermano G.B. Carducci, a third collection – a real archaeological collection – formed by the De Minicis brothers and only partially purchased by the city of Fermo, and finally, the Archaeological Museum of Monterubbiano (FM) founded in 1905, holds just a little less than a thousand exhibits (including those inside the deposit) – consisting mainly of funereal artefacts from the Piceno Civilization and Roman era – from the municipal area.
The Marche region, so rich in archaeological sites, has thus a network of museums related to these and other venues of a city that protect and promote the archeology of the region. It is important to remember that, both at the regional level and by the individual provinces have been available for years, thanks to new technologies and network systems, the information to help visitors in finding useful tips for visits to museums and archaeological areas.
Among these, an example is the province of Pesaro and Urbino, which has created a system that aims to enhance all archaeological museums of interest so as to act in a coordinated manner by strengthening the individual reality (www.archeoprovincia.it). From the circuit’s web pages it is possible to draw a lot of information on the archaeological heritage, ranging from the paths of interest to the organizational structure of the Superintendent. Educational projects, events and training courses for those who intend to specialize in the field are shown, unfortunately these last chapters have not been updated and the “news” reported on the site dates back to 2002. Interesting, however, is the opportunity to participate in online forums and subscribe to the newsletter. The pages are very practical regarding the museums: the browser may indeed choose to see the generic page with opening hours and some notes on the works or dissect the topic by reading the in-
Thermal Baths and Wellness
To regenerate body and soul
The land of The Marche is by definition and because of its natural conformation an authentic land that conveys quietness and serenity. It is therefore the ideal place to meet up with friends and find one‟s own physical and spiritual balance. The new frontiers of wellness, based on muds and waters with its recognized healing properties, find their natural expression in the Marche. Beauty farms, thermal baths, highly qualified centres with solarium, gyms, whirlpools, pools, saunas as well as locations specialised in nutrition and food intolerances allow for the satisfaction of every type of request and help to regain that sense of healthy well being in The Marche, an important result of psychological and physical harmony.
There is a wide range of choice: there are many thermal bath locations spread out over the entire territory. The water that is pure and clear, or muddy, boiling hot, rich with precious mineral substances is the undisputed main element of each treatment.
The power of the medicinal waters at the Terme di Acquasanta, pre-
The Terme dell’ Aspio, instead are located on the inland of the Regional Park of Cònero, with its saline-
Still in the province of Ancona are the Terme di San Vittore delle Chiuse, located at the bottom of the enchanting Frasassi Gorge, crossed by the Sentino river and in the immediate vicinity of the Caves bearing the same name and the romantic S. Vittore Abbey. It is possible to carry out different types of therapy at the establishment, from mud baths to other baths, from the humages to the nebulisations, as well as massages and aesthetic treatments.
In Fano, in the province of Pesaro Urbino, there are the Terme di Carignano in a gorgeous nature park with secular and resinous trees that render the air balsamic and healthy, within the luxuriant hillsides between Pesaro and Fano. Still in the province of Pesaro Urbino are the Pitinum Thermae, in Macerata Feltria, a modern complex with thermal therapies which are ideal for prevention, therapy and rehabilitation. The draining, anti-
The Terme di Montegrimano date back to very ancient times, proof of this is the presence of collection tanks and other building structures dating back to the Roman period discovered in the vicinity of the thermal bath area. Wine therapy is one of the many therapies offered by this establishment, which includes a wide range of treatments and therapies which are based on using derivatives from the vine, such as grapes, leaves and wine.
In Petranio the sulphurous-
In the province of Macerata there are the Terme di Sarnano, renowned for the quality and applications of the waters, among which the bicarbonate-
The success of the ten thermal bath establishments in The Marche region, other than the certified ownership and quality of the waters and the wide range of choice of treatments and therapies, is also due to the ability of bringing people close to nature, favouring a healthy way of living, which today represents an always more needed and shared necessity.
A trip to The Marche is, therefore, also a trip to wellness, which means to feel good, live well, and pay attention to the quality of life. It is not a coincidence that there are also numerous centres and outpatient clinics, for rehabilitation, physical therapy and Sports Medicine, as well as a wide range of sports and cultural activities and spaces specifically equipped and reserved for children.
SHOPPING
Le Marche is a land of ancient craft traditions agricultural and manufacturing of high quality. In today's predominate farming wheat, high but not top quality olive and grape cultivation for the production of excellent wines and oils. Best Brands of the industry that can affect a visitor is the shoe and leather industry, the furniture, clothing and toys, peculiarities in the production of musical instruments. The artisanship also has a significant role, typical products are ceramics, pottery, copper and lace. Marches are also famous for its food and craft products are best in meats and cheeses.
The brands are well known for the production of furniture, furnishings and art if it is the highest aspect, that's the Marches offer an extraordinary level of artistic production with artists including international Marche or who have taken the brand to work received by the beauty of a great creative impulse.
A trip to the Marche, therefore, can also be an opportunity to switch to classic tour historical and cultural tour most exquisitely fashionable, in search of numerous outlets and factory outlets scattered throughout the territory, where you can find quality items at prices to be true Deal or gourmand looking for high quality typical products including meats, cheeses, wines, oils, treats of all kinds.
Shopping in Le Marche is not just retail outlets, factory outlets and shops, very important are the weekly markets or public markets, trade shows and events of all kinds.