ANCIENT VILLAGES

ANCIENT VILLAGES

Discovering 

historical ancient villages 

The Apennines on a side, the Adriatic coast 

on the other, and, in-between, a sea of soft 

hills, which are filled by old villages, protected 

by ring walls: these are the Marche. 

It’s a pleasure to surf in a sea earth of our 

own roots, immersed in the purity of the 

landscape and the harmony of architectonic. 

Whereas the beauty of the art towns in 

Marche is known and appreciated all over 

the world, it is necessary to recognize that 

the heart of the region has to be found in the 

little villages that they pointing out around 

the territory, ignored by hurried tourists and 

often unknown to the most people of the 

Marche themselves. 

Indeed, these villages have the highest cultural 

potential and evocative power to 

attract guests, providing them with a very 

good welcoming in a relaxing atmosphere. 

Thanks to a magical alchemy of the rushing 

rhythm of daily life slows down here and it 

makes people to manage and to stand the 

rhythm of nature, season and manhood. 

With their sobriety of habits and their intelligence, 

the inhabitants of these territory 

really manage to defend, preserve and hand

down to their children the very old and balanced 

relationship with time. 

Regarding to one’s own traditions also 

means preserving old crafts and century-old 

food traditions, that rest mainly with the use 

of products, coming unaltered from the 

local agricultural world. 

In order to get into the very sense of the 

land, we suggest one should slow down the 

time by using natural means of transport 

like horse, bike, quite better a mountainbike 

in fact, considering the most tracks 

and…one’s own feet. 

So have a good journey along the itineraries 

full of towers, historic buildings, charming 

castles, silent rural parish churches, wells, 

shrines, hermitages, discovering all your 

way long this small, but beautiful and fascinating 

side of the Marche. 

“… The emotion that you can get from one of 

these seldom visited places is even stronger than 

the magic aroused by a celebrated place. 

It’s here that we can find again those sounds, 

scents and perspectives of a past, that have been 

clouded in our memory. Mostly, it’s in these villages, 

in these often abandoned places, where we 

find ourselves again.” 

Tonino Guerra

PROVINCE OF PESARO-URBINO

Province of Pesaro-Urbino 

Inhabitants 1572 

Altitude 373 m ASL 

Surface 20,31 sq km 

Distance 

from Pesaro 40 km 

from Urbino 20 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.362109 

Mountain Community: 

Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune.auditore.pu.it 

comune.auditore@provincia.ps.it 

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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The site occupied nowadays by 

Auditore was originally inhabited 

by people of Umbrian and 

Picene origin, followed by Roman 

colonists. Earthenware, amphoras, 

oil-lamps, glassware, 

floor decorations and fragments 

of roof tiles have been found in 

several spots in the municipal 

territory. In the Middle Ages the 

history of Auditore was tightly 

connected with Rimini. The fortified 

village, leaning on the side 

of Mount San Giovanni, was a 

feud of the Ridolfi family in the 

13 th century together with Castle 

of La trappola; The Malatesta 

family ruled over the village for a 

while, until the Montefeltro family 

got it finally back. In the past 

the village was composed by 

three different fortified built-up 

areas: Auditore, San Giovanni 

and Castelnuovo: it is still possible 

to recognise the different defence 

structures, including walls, 

towers and bastions. 

WORTH VISITING 

The impressive ring walls, dating 

from the first half of the 15 th 

century, including two round 

keeps and the octagonal Civic 

Tower of 1450 are evidences of 

Auditore’s aristocratic past. The 

Parish Church, located in the 

historic centre of the village contains 

a painting representing the 

Pentecost, painted by Marino 

Medici in 1772. The Gothic Line 

Museum, commemorating the 

fights, that took place in the hamlet 

Casinina after the break 

through the Gothic Line in 1944 

AUDITORE 

during the retreat of the German 

troops, is absolutely recommended. 

SOMETHING MORE TO 

DISCOVER 

Auditore has been famous for 

bronze-founding, especially for 

the creation of cannons and bells. 

The village has maintained its 

character of rural and handicraft 

village up to the presence, coexisting 

with new-born industrial 

and trade activities, though. 

WORTH TASTING 

Excellent cheese variety. 

SOMETHING TO DO 

The territory offers trekking or 

mountain-bike naturalistic routes. 

WORTH DISCOVERING 

On the hillside of Mount San 

Giovanni it is possible to appreciate 

the ruins of the Castle of la 

Trappola, located amid an unspoiled 

landscape, covered with 

pinewoods, full of natural caves, 

most of which are still unexplored. 

Don’t miss visiting the 

Ventena Valley: with the almost 

completely abandoned settlement 

of Castelnuovo and the little 

Ventena River, this environment 

still retains its original atmosphere. 

DON’T MISS OUT 

Sagra della fava e del formaggio 

(Feast of broad bean and cheese) 

- May; Festa di Ferragosto 

(Mid-August Fair) - 14 th August; 

Festa di Santa Maria patrona di 

AUDITORE 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

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Casinina (Feast of St. Maria, Patron 

Saint of Casinina) - 8 th September; 

Festa del patrono San 

Nicola (Feast of the Patron 

Saint, St. Nicola) - September; I 

giorni del baccanale (Bacchanalia’s 

days) in Casinina, Sagra 

della salsiccia (Sausage Festival) 

and Festa di Bacco (Bacchus’Festival) 

- first and second 

Sunday in October; Mercatino 

di Natale (Christmas Market) - 

December.





Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0721.97152 

Mountain Community 

Phone: +39 0721.74291 

www.comune.barchi.pu.it 

comune.barchi@provincia.ps.it 

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The origin of the village can be 

traced back to the third millennium 

before Christ; during the 

Roman time the village experienced 

a flourishing period, according 

to the findings discovered 

in the area (especially notable 

are the ruins of a temple 

dedicated to Apollo). Prior to 

the 13 th century the settlement 

was located at the bottom of 

two high hills, along the course 

of Rio Maggio and its name 

was Barte; when the Franciscans 

came and preached in the 

area, people followed the Friars 

and moved to the top of the 

hill. In the 15 th century the Castle 

belonged to the Dukes of 

Urbino, afterwards it was 

transferred to the Count of Ancona 

and in 1631 was made 

over to the Popedom, that ruled 

over it in the person of Cardinal 

Giulio Della Rovere: the triumph 

arch was erected at the 

entrance of the village to celebrate 

the assignment. The 

Church of St. Ubaldo was built 

at beginnings of the 17 th century. 


The sole evidence reminding 

the origin of the village are the 

remains of the ring walls and 

the Castle. Palazzo Della Rovere, 

Palazzo Enrici and the 

16 th century spired Municipal 

Tower cannot be missed. The 

Parish Church and the Church 

of St. Antonio, containing an interesting 

painting representing 

the Adoration of the Magi are 

BARCHI 

also recommended. 


DISCOVER 

Many former soldiers visit the 

area, to appreciate an iron 

structure called Altare della 

Pace (Peace Altar) and a 

Cemetery, containing a Tricolore 

(Italian National flag) with 

spots of Italian soldiers’ blood. 

WORTH TASTING 

Frogs (fried, stewed or roasted), 

grass peas, crestaiate 

(maize hand made pasta), Sacconi, 

beans, tagliolini, bread 

soup “pancotto”, roasted goose 

and rabbit “in potacchio” are 

the most important gastronomic 

specialities of the territory. 


The hills around Barchi offer 

excellent opportunities for different 

itineraries of naturalistic, 

artistic and historical interest; 

the area is included the in 

circuit of Trekking dei Fuochi, 

a trekking ring trail, composed 

by over 300 km country paths, 

old mule tracks and mountain 

paths winding across the country 

side of the Province Pesaro 

Urbino. 


Il colle marathon, (marathon 

from Barchi to Fano) - first 

Sunday in May; Festa della 

Madonna del Soldato Feast of 

Madonna of the soldier) with 

procession and honour picket 

to commemorate soldiers 

URBINO 

BARCHI 

PESARO 

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killed in any war - May; Fiera 

di Sant’Ubaldo (Fair of St. 

Ubaldo) - May; Sagra della 

Rana (Frog Festival) or Festa 

della Primavera (Spring Festival) 

with “Caccia alla Rana” 

foot race - end of June; I sapori 

del Castello (Flavours of the 

Castle) - first Sunday in August. 

9


BELFORTE ALL’ISAURO 



Surface 11,62sq km 

Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0722.721101 

+39 0722.721597 


Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune.belforte.pu.it 

comune.belforte@provincia.ps.it 

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The historic village Belforte is 

located in the upper Foglia Valley, 

standing on a rocky spur 

between the banks of the Isauro 

and Fossato streams. It’s a medieval 

Castle village, dating 

from the 8 th century, when the 

Castrum Belfortis, Belforte’s 

original name, was numbered 

among the properties of the 

Pieve of St. Lorenzo. Afterwards, 

it belonged to Massa 

Trabaria until the Popedom in 

the person of Pope John XXII 

got it back again. In 1353 

Belforte’s townsmen contributed 

to the peace treat, 

signed by the Apostolic Legate 

Giovanni Visconti and some 

Tuscany Municipalities (Comuni). 

In 1356 Cardinal Albornoz 

took the village back to the 

Popedom, but after a few years 

it was incorporated with the 

Dukedom of Urbino. In 1440 

was made over to the Malatesta 

family of Rimini and then assigned 

to Guidantonio da Montefeltro. 

Until 1862 its name 

was just Belforte; the name derives 

from the German aristocratic 

family Beaufort, whose 

Castle, located in the very historic 

centre of the village has 

been restored several times. 

The geographic name Isauro, 

coming from the historic name 

of the Foglia River (Pisaurus), 

was added later. 


The historic centre, characterized 

by narrow streets, historic 

palaces and the Castle, is really 

full of charm; the Castle, erected 

between the 15 th and the 

16 th century in a lengthened 

shape, represents an effective 

example of spontaneous fortification 

design. Don’t miss the 

Church of St. Lorenzo containing 

paintings by Baroccio’s School 

(e.g. St. Francis receiving 

stigmata) and a Crucifix, considered 

to be miraculous. 


DISCOVER 

The Castle, nowadays property 

of the Municipal government, 

houses several school education 

projects. 

WORTH TASTING 

Honey is the most typical product. 

It is also a suitable area 

gathering of truffle and mushroom. 


The hinterland of Pesaro including 

Montefeltro and Massa 

Trabaria offers several 

routes of naturalistic, historical 

and artistic interest. In the public 

gardens by the parish 

church of St. Lorenzo is a Franco 

Assetto’s Fountain. Ruins 

of a keep of the 14 th century 

(Cardinal Albornoz’ time) can 

be appreciated in the hamlet 

Torriola. 


Fiera del Bestiame (cattle market) 

- 20 th July; Festa della collina 

(Festival of the hill) - Au- 

URBINO 

BELFORTE ALL’ISAURO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

gust; Festa del miele (Honey 

Festival) and Mostra mercato 

del miele e dei prodotti d’autunno 

(Exhibition and market 

of honey and autumnal products) 

- second Sunday in October.





Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0722.816048 

Tourist office: 

Phone: +39 0722.800138 

www.comune.borgo-pace.pu.it 

comune.borgo-pace@ 

provincia.ps.it 

turismo@comune.borgo-pace.ps.it 

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Borgo Pace originated from 

Castrum Abbatiae, erected in 

the Late Middle Ages on a hilltop, 

to defend the Abbey of Lamoli. 

After becaming Castel 

Bavia, destroyed in an unknown 

time, it was built again 

downhill. The new-born settlement 

was called Burgo Pacis, 

maybe because Octavio Marcus 

Antonio and Lepido laid 

here the foundations of the 

peace treat settled in 42 before 

Christ on the Reno River, flowing 

near Bologna. The town 

Borgo Pace developed around 

the Castle and was ruled by the 

Montefeltro family. Although 

the government of the village 

had been basing on its own 

statutes, established since 

1412, Borgo Pace was temporarily 

incorporated with 

Mercatello sul Metauro; it only 

managed to get its independence 

back in 1812. 


In the hamlet Lamoli is the 

Abbey of St. Michele Arcangelo, 

a Romanesque stone building, 

composed by a nave and 

two aisles, trussed roof and 

presbitery over the crypt. 

The Abbey contains a Crucifix 

of the 16 th century and a painting 

attributed to Raffaellino del 

Colle, showing Eternal Father 

between two Angels. In the 

Church of Santa Maria Nuova, 

located in the town centre, it’s 

possible to appreciate a beautiful 

polychrome majolica painting 

in the typical stile of Castel- 

BORGO PACE 

durante (Urbania) showing a 

Madonna with child and a 

painted (Madonna with child) 

of the 15 th century. 


DISCOVER 

The village is located in the 

heart of Massa Trabaria, where 

the Romans took the big logs 

(trabes) used for their impressive 

structures from. To preserve 

the typical environment a 

Centro di Educazione Ambientale 

(centre for environmental 

Education), together 

with a Aula Verde (Environmental 

Workshop centre) have 

been established, aiming to 

promote the knowledge of the 

local environmental and naturalistic 

characteristics (especially 

the peculiar river environment), 

also through the creation 

of aquaria with river fishes 

and shellfishes. 

WORTH TASTING 

Excellent variety of cheeses 

and wines; notable mushrooms 

area. 


The village is located downhill 

the Alpe della Luna, where the 

Meta River and the Auro River 

merge, creating the Metauro 

River. For this reason the area 

offers unmissable opportunities 

for guided excursions and 

naturalistic itineraries in the 

environment of the source of 

the Metauro River. It’s a 

charming route of great histor- 

BORGO PACE 

URBINO 

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ical, cultural and naturalistic 

interest, that includes medieval 

towers, traces of old crafts 

(charcoal burners or stone cutters), 

woods, streams and pastures. 


Festa della Madonna di 

Spogna (Feast of the Madonna 

di Spogna) - Easter Monday; 

Sagra della panzanella (Panzanella 

Festival) and Festa di 

S. Maria Assunta (Feast of St. 

Maria Assunta) in Lamoli - 

15 th August; Festa del basilico 

(Basilicum Festival) in Parchiule 

- first Sunday in September; 

Mercatino sotto l’albero 

(Market under the Christmas 

tree) - December. 

11





Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0722.727065 


Phone: +39 0722.77326 


Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune.carpegna.pu.it 

comune.carpegna@provincia.ps.it 

www.parcosimone.it 

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MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Carpegna lies on the course of 

the Mutino stream and is the 

seat of the Montefeltro Mountain 

Community (Comunità 

Montana del Montefeltro). Its 

name probably origins from 

the hornbeam woods covering 

the Mount Carpegna. Since the 

Early Middle Ages it was a 

feud of the Counts Carpegna, 

remaining a property of the 

family until 1749, with exception 

of a brief period, during 

which Federico da Montefeltro 

ruled over it. 


Carpegna boasts a great number 

of artistic works, among 

which the severe, but impressive 

Palazzo dei Principi di 

Carpegna, erected in 1675, designed 

by the architect Giovan 

Antonio de Rossi for Cardinal 

Gaspare di Carpegna (on 

Thursdays it’s possible to visit 

the precious library and the 

family chapel), the Church of 

St. Sisto with a Romanesque 

crypt, the charming Pieve di 

Carpegna (2 km away) containing 

a pretty Renaissance 

niche, the Church of St. Nicolò, 

the bells of which in November 

1970 rang for a while, unexplainably. 


DISCOVER 

The territory is full of stream 

sources; the most important 

one is called Il Cippo, famous 

for the diuretic properties of its 

water. The village houses the 

CARPEGNA 

Headquarters of the Sasso Simone 

and Simoncello Regional 

Park, rich in woods (e.g. Pianacquadio 

beechwood), panoramic 

view points and evidences 

of an important past, 

like the ruins of the old Benedictine 

Abbey and the mysterious 

fortress, commissioned by 

the Medici family in 1560 on 

the hilltop. 

WORTH TASTING 

Here, one it’s really spoilt for 

choice! Handmade pasta, the 

famous prosciutto di Carpegna, 

honey, mushrooms, truffles, 

cheeses, wild game and a 

number of typical desserts, like 

crostolini and bustrengo. 


The park offers a number of 

marked walking, horse trekking 

and mountain-bike itineraries. 

Trout breeding is also possible 

in the Mutino stream. 


About 1 km away from the village 

is the Pass of the Cantoniera, 

full of meadows, 

woods, hotels, guesthouses and 

equipped with ski-lift. Follow 

the well marked routes and 

your excursions in the Sasso 

Simone and Simoncello Regional 

Park will be unforgettable! 


Il Befanone (Festival celebrating 

the “Befana” - old lady 

character of the Italian folklore) 

CARPEGNA 

URBINO 

PESARO 

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- 6 th January; Baghnara, (Carnival 

Festival) - February; Festa 

del turismo verde (Green 

tourism Festival) - July; Fiera 

Grossa (Big Fair) - 21 st July; 

Rassegna del cavallo da sella 

(saddle horses show) - August; 

Mostra dell’artigianato (Handicrafts 

exhibition) - Mid-August; 

Fiere d’ottobre (October 

Market-days) - October; Festa 

di Santa Lucia (Feast of St. Lucia) 

- December.


FRATTE ROSA 




Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0721.777113 


Phone: +39 0721.777200 

www.comune.fratte-rosa.pu.it 

comune.fratterosa@provincia.ps.it 

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Fratte Rosa lies between the 

Cesano and Metauro Valleys, 

in a dominant position, from 

which it is possible to enjoy an 

amazing panoramic view. According 

to some opinions, Fratte 

Rosa, the historic name of 

which is Castrum Fractarum, 

draws its origin from the defeat 

suffered by Hasdrubal, Hannibal’s 

brother, in the Metauro 

battle. Amore likely version attributes 

the origin to survivors, 

escaping from the near Roman 

town Suasa, distroyed by 

Ataulfo, Alaric’s general. Between 

the 9 th and the 13 th centuries 

the village experienced 

the most important politic period 

of its history: it was the chief 

town of small but official state 

called Ravignana, depending 

on the Classensi monks of 

Ravenna. The establishment of 

the Convent of St. Vittoria, 

dates back to that period 

(1216), as a result of San Francis’ 

lively preaching activity. 

Because of its strategic position, 

serving as Fano defensive 

outpost, both the Montefeltro 

family and the Malatesta family 

tried to submit Fratte Rosa, 

without success. Afterwards, it 

was incorporated into the 

Popedom. 


Worth visiting is the Terracotta 

Musuem, housed in the 

Monastery of St. Vittoria, including 

a earthenware research 

and testing centre. In the village 

are also the Church of St. 

Giorgio and the Church of St. 

Maria in Castagneto; don’t 

miss the Sala Vittoria, the 

Fountain in Assetto and Pozzo 

Malatestiano (Malatestian 

well). 


DISCOVER 

Earthenware-work tradition is 

century-old; the typical manufactures 

are known as “cocci di 

Fratte Rosa”. The term Rosa 

(pink) likely derives from the 

colour of bricks, used to build 

houses and was added to the 

town name only in the 19 th century. 

This is how Paolo Volponi 

defines Fratte Rosa “a sweet, 

round, light and yielding village, 

that can be worked out 

like one of its “cocci” in its 

kilns and its shops”. 

WORTH TASTING 

Typical food stewed in terracotta 

pots, like the “faraona al 

coccio” (literally “guinea hen 

in the pot”), dishes made with 

broad bean flour, olives in the 

pot, and small biscuits in syrup. 


Along the circuit of Trekking 

dei Fuochi you will find 

marked paths of great naturalistic 

value; a multi-activity 

rink and a soccer field are available 

in Torre San Marco. 


Public parks are in Torre San 

Marco (Parco della vita) and in 

Fratte Rosa (Sogno verde). 

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FRATTE ROSA 

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Worth visiting is the near old 

hamlet Torre San Marco 

(Church of the 18 th century); 

several itineraries celebrating 

the processing of terracotta are 

offered, including the visit of 

traditional workshops and 

workrooms. 


Fiera di Torre S. Marco (Fair in 

Torre San Marco) - last Sunday 

in May; Da Fratte al Gibbo 

(Cultural and entertainment 

event) - July; Fiera di Fratte 

Rosa (Fair in Fratte Rosa) - second 

Sunday in July; Fiera del 

Convento a Santa Vittoria (Fair 

at the Convent of St. Vittoria) - 

first Sunday in August; “Oh, 

che bel Castello” - 14 th and 

15 th August): town squares and 

streets liven up with torches, 

coats of arms and traditional 

music. While terracotta artisans 

work on spot, enjoy traditional 

dishes in the joyful atmosphere.





Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0722.71131 


Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune.frontino.pu.it 

comune.frontino@provincia.ps.it 


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MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The village was probably 

founded in the Early Middle 

Ages, but the territory including 

Frontino and other villages 

of the Montefeltro has got prehistoric 

origin. The victory of 

Sentino (295 before Christ) 

marks the beginning of the Roman 

domination, evidenced by 

the number of relevant archaeological 

findings discovered in 

the area. The Castle of San Sisto 

and Frontino, belonging to 

Massa Trabaria, were erected in 

the 12 th century; Massa Trabaria 

was tightly dependent on 

the Popedom, as it provided 

Rome with wood. The territory 

is not far from the regions belonging 

to the aristocratic families 

Malatesta, Montefeltro and 

Carpegna: for that reason famous 

captains of the mentioned 

families tried to occupy Frontino, 

like for example Uguccione 

della Faggiola, who laid waste 

the town. Afterwards, it became 

a possession of Federico 

da Montefeltro, followed by a 

period of government of Ottaviano 

degli Ubaldini. 


The Church of SS. Pietro and 

Paolo contains a painting of the 

Baroccio’s school; the Franco 

Assetto Museum, housing the 

works that the painter donated 

to the Municipality, is also 

worth visiting. 

Not far away is the charming 

Franciscan Convent of Montefiorentino, 

built in successive 

stages starting in the 13 th centu- 

FRONTINO 

ry. In it is the Chapel of Counts 

Oliva (1484), a graceful Renaissance 

squared room with a 

valuable majolica tiled floor; 

the walls of the Chapel contain 

the tombs of Gianfrancesco 

Oliva and his wife Marsibilia 

Trinci; noteworthy are also an 

altar-piece showing a Madonna 

with Child and Saints by Giovanni 

Santi, Raffaello’s father, 

and two carved kneel-stools. 

The Monastery of San Girolamo, 

surrounded by centuryold 

oaks, is not far away; created 

in 1503, it has been the old 

seat of the Girolamini monks 

and has been recently restored. 


DISCOVER 

In the old village, that is still delimited 

by towers and sound 

walls is the impressive Palazzo 

Malatesta; the cellars of the 

palace are connected to a mill 

(recently restored) through 

long underground passages, so 

that flour supplying could be 

guaranteed during siege times. 

WORTH TASTING 

Notable variety of mushrooms, 

white and black truffle, cheese, 

beans, wild green vegetables, 

typical cattle and mutton from 

wild raised cows and sheep, 

wild berries (especially blackberries, 

used to make a delicious 

jam). 


The town has got an excellent 

sport centre, including a soccer 

FRONTINO 

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field, tennis courts, volleyball 

and basketball grounds, skating 

rink and an indoor sports centre. 

The outdoor theatre is used 

for festivals and different 

events. 


The municipal territory lies in 

the Sasso Simone and Simoncello 

Regional Park; the town 

is a perfect departure point for 

walking, mountain bike or 

horse trekking tours. 


Il trionfo del tartufo nero 

(Black truffle triumph) - first 

Sunday in August; Sagra del 

fagiolo (Beans Festival) - first 

Sunday in September; Premio 

Letterario Nazionale Frontino 

di Montefeltro (“Frontino di 

Montefeltro” Poetry and Literature 

contest) - second Sunday 

in October. 

15





Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0721.786107 


Phone: +39 0721.735701 

www.comune.frontone.pu.it 

comune.frontone@provincia.ps.it 

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Thanks to its strategic position 

the territory of Frontone has 

been inhabited since ancient 

times, as the big number of archaeological 

findings, discovered 

in the area, prove. Initially 

dominated by the Gabrielli 

family from Gubbio, in 1420 it 

was transferred to the Montefeltro 

Counts, who defended 

the Castle from the assaults of 

the Malatesta family in 1445. 

Following that, Federico da 

Montefeltro employed the 

Sienese architect Francesco di 

Giorgio Martini with the 

strengthening of the defensive 

structure of the Rocca. Afterwards, 

the Castle village became 

a County, under the feudal 

government of Gianmaria 

Della Porta of Modena, who 

developed the residential area 

around the Castle. The Castle 

kept being property of the family 

Della Porta until 1965. In 

1985 the municipal government 

bought it off. 

WORTH VISTING 

The hamlet Castello still retains 

all the charming atmosphere of 

its past. Don’t miss visiting the 

impressive and charming Castle 

of Della Porta, recently restored, 

housing the Civic Art 

Collection, the Baronal 

Church, the Civic Tower, the 

parish Church of St. Maria Assunta, 

the Church of the 

Madonna dell’Acquanera containing 

a Antonio Durante’s terracotta 

sculpture of 1518, representing 

a Madonna with Child. 

FRONTONE 


DISCOVER 

Main local activities are agriculture 

and sheep farming, but 

handicrafts like glassmaking 

and ironwork are also very developed. 

WORTH TASTING 

Typical products and dishes are 

rabbit “in porchetta” (roasted 

with spices and pig skin), lamb, 

crescia (pizza bread) and ham, 

tagliatelle, cappelletti and 

baked pasta recipes. 


An outdoor pool and a tennis 

court are available. 


Mount Acuto and Mount Catria 

offer the possibility to enjoy 

different mountain tracks, 

mostly included in the circuit 

of Trekking dei Fuochi. 

Healthy climate, refreshing 

valleys and green hills: a suitable 

environment for walking, 

horse trekking and mountainbike 

tours. 


Motoconcentrazione nazionale 

del Catria (Mount Catria 

National Motorbike meeting) - 

end of January; Fiera di mezz’agosto 

(Mid-August Fair) - 

14 th August; Sagra del Coniglio 

in porchetta (Festival of 

the rubbit “in porchetta” - Sunday 

after the 15 th of August; 

Festa della Madonna dell’Acquanera 

(Feast of the 

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Madonna dell’Acquanera) - 8 th 

September; Mostra Mercato 

del Fungo e Prodotti Tipici 

(Exhibition and Market of 

mushrooms and typical products) 

- end of September; Frontone 

vive il Presepe (Staging of 

the Nativity) - Christmas time.


ISOLA DEL PIANO 




Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0721.720127-8 


Phone: +39 0721.740222 

www.comune.isola-del-piano.ps.it 

comune.isola-piano@ 


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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The earliest reference to the 

settlement dates 1140, relating 

the donation made by Duke 

Guarnieri to the Bishop of Fossombrone. 

According to the 

confederation deed of 1207 between 

Fano and Rimini, where 

it’s mentioned as Insula Planensium, 

Isola del Piano must 

have been an important village 

at the time. The Ghibelline 

Castle was burnt out in 1284 by 

Riminese soldiers, supporting 

the Guelphic assault (a gothic 

capital representing the mentioned 

historical event can be 

seen in the Municipal Theatre). 

Urbino ruled over the village 

until 1574; afterwards it was 

donated as feudal endowment 

from Duke Guidolbaldo II to 

the Counts Castiglioni, the famous 

Mantua family, from 

which Baldassarre Castiglioni, 

the author of Il Cortigiano also 

comes from. 


Built on the ruins of the previous 

Castello dell’Isola stands 

the historic Palazzo dei Castiglioni, 

with the well preserved 

gate of the 16 th century. In the 

Church of the Girolamini 

monks it is possible to appreciate 

three valuable paintings. Of 

particular interest is the former 

Church of the Annunziata, with 

Renaissance portal, that has 

been recently restored and 

serves as Auditorium. It contains 

frescos of the 15 th and the 

16 th centuries, among which a 

Madonna with Child, attrib- 

uted to Giovanni Santi, Raffaello’s 

father. Don’t miss visiting 

the Museum “Sulle tracce 

dei nostri padri”, ethnografic 

museum, contributing to go 

through the history of the society 

and the rural tradition, 

housed in the former Monastery 

of Montebello, old residence 

of the Girolamini 

monks, amid the unspoiled nature 

of the Monti delle Cesane. 


DISCOVER 

The municipal territory has 

been one of the first Italian areas, 

where biological agriculture 

has been implemented 

(since the 70s already); the local 

production brand is a fact 

within the national frontiers 

and it’s now distributed all over 

Europe. 

Traditional handicraft manufacturing 

(especially calcareous 

and sand stone-cutting, 

lime-processing, quarrying 

and processing of gypsum) is 

still practiced. 

WORTH TASTING 

Notable production of cereals, 

fresh vegetables and delicious 

preserves. 


The village lies flat downhill 

the woody and charming Monti 

delle Cesane, along the valley 

of Rio Puto, a tributary of 

the Metauro River, a few kilometres 

away from the historic 

Via Flaminia. It’s a suitable 

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area for historical and naturalistic 

routes, mostly included in 

the circuit of Trekking dei 

Fuochi. 


Trecce e intrecci (Plaiting and 

weaving) - July. 

17





Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0722.700016 


Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune.lunano.pu.it 

comune.lunano@provincia.ps.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 


MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The village, located in one of 

the most pleasant areas of the 

Foglia Valley, developed 

around the Castle of the Ubaldini, 

owned later on by Prudenzio 

Malatesta. Transferred 

under the rule of the Brancaleone 

family, it finally became 

Guidantonio of Montefeltro’s 

property in 1424. 


Evidence of its old origin are 

the ruins of the Castle (especially 

a tower), overgrown with 

ivy and thick vegetation, to be 

reached along a pleasant road 

winding up the hill. Not far 

away is a “naturalistic route” 

leading to the Franciscan Convent 

of MonteIlluminato, located 

on a 451 metres high hill; the 

Convent contains frescos of the 

15 th and 16 th centuries. The 

Neoclassical Parish Church, 

with elegant interior and a slender 

bell tower with cusp, stands 

in the village centre. 


DISCOVER 

Tradition tells that St Francis 

visited the Convent of Monte 

Illuminato in 1213 (the Saint 

restored a young man’s sight in 

that occasion) and seven bishops 

consecrated it in 1222. 

WORTH TASTING 

Among the local specialities 

we recommend the main 

courses with chestnuts and 

“castagnaccio”, a typical cake 

made with chestnut flour. 

LUNANO 


The village is located in the upper 

Foglia Valley, a stunningly 

beautiful environment, suitable 

for walking and mountainbike 

tours. 


Many historical and naturalistic 

itineraries are available. 


Festa dei Santi Cosma e Damiano 

(Feast of SS. Cosma and 

Damiano) - 26 th September; 

Festa di San Francesco (Feast 

of St. Francesco) - 4 th October; 

Festa della Castagna (Chestnut 

Festival) - third Sunday in 

October. 

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MERCATELLO SUL METAURO 




Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0722.89114 


Phone: +39 0722.315378 

www.comune. 

mercatellosulmetauro.pu.it 

comune.mercatello@provincia.ps.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Thanks to its history, monuments 

and environment, including 

woods and pleasant hills, the territory 

has been always considered 

a “noble land”; San Francis used 

to stop over there, during his journeys 

to Romagna; so did numerous 

painters, whose works can be 

appreciated in the very interesting 

Painting Gallery, housed in the 

Gothic Church of St. Francesco. 

The village, the original name of 

which was Pieve d’Ico (maybe 

due to the presence of an icon representing 

the Madonna delle 

Grazie, contained in the Collegiata), 

was provided with defensive 

walls in 1235. The modern 

name evidences the lively trade 

activities, the village has been 

scene of. Over the centuries the 

village has significantly grown up 

beyond the oval shaped ancient 

walls. 


In the Pieve Collegiata, dedicated 

St. Pietro apostolo you can 

find a hieratic icon with Byzantine 

traits, dating from the 11 th 

century, as well as sacred vestments 

and objects, on display in 

the Museum. The monumental 

Church of St. Francesco, dating 

from the 13 th century, houses an 

important Gallery Museum, containing 

valuable works, among 

which a 14 th century polyptych 

by Giovanni Baronzio and an impressive 

Crucifix by Giovanni da 

Rimini. Worth seeing are also the 

17 th century Palazzaccio, with its 

peculiar ship shape, with the Sant’Antionio 

stream on the background, 

the fascinating Mulino 

della Pieve (old mill), the 16 th 

century Palazzo Donati, the historical 

relevant Palazzo Stefani, 

with its portal of the 15 th century, 

as well as the rooms of Palazzo 

Ducale, designed by Francesco 

di Giorgio Martini for Federico 

of Montefeltro. Also to be seen 

are the Church of St. Chiara, the 

Church of the Holy Cross, the 

Church of St. Maria del Metauro 

and the Romanesque Bridge 

across the Metauro river, built on 

three archways. 

SOMETHNIG MORE TO 

DISCOVER 

Located in the upper Metauro 

valley, the town still preserves its 

historical and artistic patrimony; 

for that reason the Italian Touring 

Club has been awarding the town 

the prestigious Orange Flag for 

years, a mark for touristic quality 

in the Italian hinterland. Mercatello 

is the birth place of Santa 

Veronica Giuliani, a Capuchin 

Clarisse nun; it houses her birthhouse, 

as well as a Museum, dedicated 

to her, housed in the local 

Monastery of the Capuchin nuns. 

WORTH TASTING 

There are lots of specialities, such 

as truffe, Montefeltro spiced ham, 

salami with lardon, tortella (pork 

neck salami), fegatelli (spiced 

pork liver wrapped in caul fat), 

golfetta-salami. Also to appreciate 

are handmade pasta recipes, bakery 

and pastry products, biscuits, 

as well as alcol free drinks, distillates 

and liqueurs like for example 

the Vin Santo of Pieve d’Ico. 


Not far away is the Aula Verde di 

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Castel della Pieve, an old fascinating 

medieval place, to be 

reached through an interesting 

environmental education route. 

It’s said to be the place where the 

decision of Dante’s exile was 

taken. 


Festa di Sant’Antonio (Feast of 

St. Antonio) - January; Rally di 

San Marino (San Marino rally) - 

May; Corpus Domini (Feast of 

Corpus Christi) - June; Fiera di 

Santa Veronica (Fair of St. Veronica) 

- first Sunday in July; Palio 

del Somaro (Donkey race) accompanied 

by the Sagra della 

tagliatella (Tagliatella Festival) 

with different sauces and donkey 

meat sauce - July; Giochi in piazza 

- giornata Ludobus (Different 

competitions and games held 

in the town centre) - August; 

Festa di San Lorenzo (Feast of 

St. Lorenzo) and Feste d’agosto 

(August Festivals) - August; 

Cantabimbo (children song 

show) - August; Rappresentazioni 

natalizie (Christmas 

shows) - December.


MERCATINO CONCA 

Inhabitants1112 



Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0541.970145 


Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune. 

mercatinoconca.pu.it 

comune.mercatino@provincia.ps.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

In the Middle Ages Mercatino 

Conca was owned by the 

Malatesta family. The old Castle, 

known since 1272 as Pian 

di Castello, was destroyed in 

1462 by Federico da Montefeltro, 

who assaulted it with his 

troops. 

The Montefeltro family and 

than the Della Rovere family 

ruled over it during centuries, 

but also afterwards the village 

kept being strongly affected by 

the vicissitudes of the Dukedom 

of Urbino. 

Thanks to its strategic location, 

the village has been always 

scene of trades and commercial 

dealings, as the name itself 

confirm. 


Mercatino Conca, located in 

the Conca Mid-valley, at the 

merging point with Rio Tassona, 

is a strategic point in the 

communication net of the 

whole valley, as the impressive 

bridge, built on six archways, 

evidences. Town buildings 

mostly stand close to each other 

on the leftside of the wide 

and pebbly river bank. 


DISCOVER 

The territory is a very suitable 

area for wild boar hunting. 

In the big Good Friday fair, the 

Fair of St. Ubaldo, as well as 

during the weekly market, held 

each Friday morning, the town 

revives its century-old trade 

tradition. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are fusilli 

with ricotta-cheese, wild boar 

a la Montefeltro, pigeons with 

chestnut stuffing, mutton a la 

“montanara”, stuffed mushroom 

caps, cheeses, salami 

and ham variety and Belmoro 

(typical cake). 


A naturalistic route, provided 

with relax areas, connects the 

Conca and the Foglia Valleys. 


Fiera del Venerdì Santo (Good 

Friday Fair); Fiera di Sant’Ubaldo 

(Fair of St. Ubaldo) - 

16 th May; Festa dell’ospitalità 

e Sagra del raviolo (Hospitality 

and ravioli Festivals) - Sunday 

after the 15 th of August. 


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21


MONTE CERIGNONE 




Distance 



i Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0541.978522 


Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune. 

montecerignone.pu.it 

comune.montecerignone 

@provincia.ps.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Located close to the Conca 

River banks, lying on a spur of 

tufaceous rock downhill the 

Mount Faggiola, is Monte 

Cerignone, composed by an 

upper town, called Castello 

and a lower town called Borgo. 

Owned by the Carpegna family 

in 962 already, it was transferred 

to the Montefeltro family 

and than to the Malatesta 

family. After getting back to 

the Montefeltro family by the 

half of the 15 th century, the 

Rocca, built in the 13 th century 

for the first Counts of Montefeltro, 

underwent consolidation 

and enlargement works to 

the design of Francesco di 

Giorgio Martini on commission 

of Duke Federico. Nowadays 

the building is the seat of 

the municipal Government. 


The original urban frame work 

of the 15 th century is unaltered. 

The town boasts a number of 

monuments and works of art. 

Worth visiting are the Castle, 

the Renaissance Palazzo Begni, 

that looks like an extension 

of the outside walls of the Rocca, 

the Church of St. Caterina, 

erected in the 17 th century on 

commission of the Order of the 

Knights of Malta. Absolutely 

to be seen is also the Church of 

St. Maria del Soccorso, containing 

an interesting painting 

of Madonna enthroned and 

two pictures attributed to 

Bartolomeo Vivarini. 

The Church of S. Biagio, the 

Patron Saint of the village, 

dates from the 17 th century: in 

it are a Vivarini’s Ecce Homo 

and a valuable Cross of the 12 th 

century, that is said to have 

been brought by the Crusaders, 

coming back from the Holy 

Land (the old Fiera di S. Croce 

also celebrates the event). In 

the Borgo is a 15 th century 

small loggia indicating the 

Casa dei Maffei, historic residence 

of the Maffei family, 

which Pope Clement XIV 

comes from. The Conventino, 

located in the hamlet Fonte 

Buona, dates back to the end of 

the 15 th century, when friar 

Domenico Spadafora erected 

there a very small convent to 

retire with his fellow friars. 

Blessed Domenico’s unaltered 

mortal remains are now kept in 

the Sanctuary of St. Maria in 

Recluso, built in the 16 th century 

over the ruins of a earlier 

Juno temple. 

WORTH TASTING 

There are many specialities, 

among which is the bustrengo 

(traditional cake). 


It’s a suitable area for walking, 


tours. 


DISCOVER 

Not far from the Borgo is the 

Mount Faggiola, on the top of 

which are the ruins of an old 

small fortress, owned accord- 


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ing to traditional relates, by the 

Ghibelline Uguccione della 

Faggiola. 


Fiera di Santa Croce (Fair of 

the Holy Cross) - first Sunday 

in May; Uccellare, cacciare, 

cavalcare, giuocare e mercatare 

in Mons Cerignonis, 

historical revival show performed 

in the historic centre - 

July; Sagra del Bustreng (Bustrengo 

Festival) - August; Festa 

del Beato Domenico Spadafora 

(Feast of Blessed Domenico 

Spadafora) - second 

Sunday in September.


MONTE GRIMANO TERME 



Surface 25 sq km 

Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0541.970125 

+39 0541.970020 


Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune. 

montegrimanoterme.pu.it 

comune.montegrimanoterme 


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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

At the end of the 11 th century 

Monte Grimano was a Montefeltro 

Castle, located in a hilly position, 

dominating the Mid-Valley 

of the Conca River; in 962 it became 

a feud of Ulderico of 

Carpegna, donated by the Emperor 

Otto I; its name Mons Germanus 

recalled its relationship 

(“germano”, brother) with the 

Castle of Monte Tassi, which is 

now a Monte Grimano’s hamlet. 

After Cardinal Albornoz occupied 

it for the Church, the village 

got strategic importance and the 

Malatesta and Montefeltro families 

disputed for it, until it became 

a property of the Montefeltro 

family in 1460. In 1631 it was 

made over to the Popedom together 

with the whole Dukedom 

of Urbino. Evidence of the original 

frame work is the historic 

centre, characterized by narrow 

streets and old palaces and a portion 

of the medieval walls with 

the ruins of the Rocca. 


Absolutely to be seen is the 15 th 

century Civic Tower (the only 

part of the fortress, built for the 

Montefeltro family in the 15 th 

century, that has been preserved 

up to the present). It stands impressively 

in the centre of the 

town square. 

Of great interest are also the 

Parish Church of St. Maria, containing 

a Madonna delle Grazie 

(by Baroccio’s School) and the 

Church of St. Silvestro, hang 

with paintings dating from the 

17 th and 18 th centuries. 


DISCOVER 

Monte Grimano has always been 

famous for its mineral water 

springs. Climate, flora, curative 

waters and local natural products 

attract to Monte Grimano many 

tourists, who appreciate simple 

and healthy life style. 

WORTH TASTING 

The territory offers natural specialities, 

based on typical products 

like cheese, salami and ham 

and local meat. 

We suggest: ravioli with nettle 

stuffing, chicken breast with 

truffle scent, beef stew with vegetables, 

tagliatelle with S.George 

mushrooms, fried parasol mushrooms, 

crostini with pecorino 

cheese and black truffle. 


Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere 

of the Terme di Montegrimano, 

Monte Grimano’s thermal centre, 

provided with a shady park, 

pools, saunas, sport and wellness 

centres. The thermal centre exploits 

local alkaline, saline-bromoiodic 

and sulphurous waters, 

known since the Roman time for 

their curative properties, with 

salutary effects against diseases 

affecting digestive tract, liver 

and urinary system, as well as 

dermatitis, deafness and inflammations. 


Very diversified territory including 

river environment and hilltop 

vegetation like woods, 

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brushes and gardens. In collaboration 

with the Mountain Community 

(Comunità Montana) 

lots of touristic itineraries and 

hike tracks have been laid out. 

Monte Grimano can be also the 

starting point for excursions to 

the surrounding towns and villages, 

offering cultural and historical 

treasures. Of great interest 

is the modern observatory. 


Festa della Madonna di Soripe 

(Feast of the Madonna of 

Soripe) - last Sunday in May; 

Sagra del Fungo Spignolo (St. 

George mushroom Festival) - 

first Saturday and Sunday in 

June; Fiera e Sagra del Tartufo 

Nero (Black truffle Trade and 

Festival) - July; Ferragosto a 

Monte Grimano (Ferragosto in 

Montegrimano) - 15 th August; 

Pastasciutta dei buongustai 

(Handmade-pasta festival) - 

first Sunday in September. 

23


MONTECICCARDO 




Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0721.910189 

+39 0721.910586 

www.comune.monteciccardo.pu.it 

comune.monteciccardo 


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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The earliest mention of the 

Castle of Monteciccardo dates 

1283, as Castrum Monti Sicari. 

Historians relate about the existence 

of three different Castles 

in the second half of the 

18 th century: the Castle of 

Monteciccardo, The Castle of 

Montegaudio and The castle of 

S. Maria, each of them having 

its own administrative independence. 

After Napoleon’s 

defeat the three castles were 

aggregated and Monteciccardo 

became the chief town. The village 

was strongly damaged 

during the last world war: 90% 

of the houses were destroyed 

by troops passing over to the 

front and, than, because of 

Gothic Line military operations. 


Among the big number of 

monuments, don’t miss pay a 

visit to the Church of St. Sebastiano, 

built in the far past and 

restored in the 18 th century, 

containing a worthy 16 th century 

painting by Bartolomeo 

Gentile from Urbino, the castle 

walls, partly restored, the Convent 

of Friars Servants of 

Mary, housing the Borderline 

Museum of modern Art, exhibition 

centre, headquarters of the 

Marchigiana Filarmonics and 

Seat of the Art direction of the 

Montegridolfo Accademy and 

Astor Piazzolla Music Centre. 

Closed to the convent is the 

Church of St. Maria delle Grazie. 

Also to see are the Tower in 

Montegaudio and the Church 

of St. Michele Arcangelo, old 

rural parish Church with interesting 

ribbed bell tower, 17 th 

century stuccoes and paintings, 

dating from 15 th until 17 th century, 

as well as sacred furniture 

and vestments. 

Remains of the Castle of St. 

Maria are the castle walls and 

the original old village houses; 

also to be seen are the Church 

of St. Agata, the little Church of 

St. Giacomo and the Church of 

Villa Ugolini, located in a pine 

and laurel bush wood. 

Of great interest is the Church 

of Villa Berti, a small yet harmonious 

rural building. Contact 

the Town Hall to book 

guided visits of all the mentioned 

monuments. 


DISCOVER 

Interesting wrought iron and 

wood-carving manufactures, 

Arte Povera furniture, leather 

furniture optional, hand painted 

porcelain dolls, painted furniture, 

paintings in fresco, frescoes 

worked out on canvas and 

wood, enamelled silver bijouterie. 

WORTH TASTING 

Delicious local products like 

cheese, organic honey, royal 

jelly, oil and officinal herbs. 


A soccer field, inter-municipal 

pool and multi-purpose centre 

are available. 

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Noteworthy are Villa Monti 

and the surrounding park. Of 

great interest is also the old 

wood, owned by the Perticari 

family, who used to host at its 

Villa Gioacchino Rossini and 

other Italian literary exponents. 

During the summer time it’s 

the scene of different cultural 

events. Many historical and 

naturalistic routes are available 

in the Pesaro hilly country side. 


Antica fiera del Conventino 

(Old Fair of the Conventino) - 

Easter Monday; Festa del Turista 

“Anima dei Popoli” International 

arts, culture and folklore 

show - August; Festival 

del ‘700 (18 th century Music 

and Theatre show) - end of July/beginning 

of August; Festa 

di Monte S. Maria (Festival of 

Monte Santa Maria) Shows 

and dinner on open air - before 

Mid-August.


MONTECOPIOLO 




Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0722.78106 


Phone: +39 0722.78130 

www.comune.montecopiolo.pu.it 

comune.montecopiolo@ 



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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 


Montecopiolo lies in the heart 

of the Montefeltro land, on the 

top of an almost 1000 metres 

high rock, mostly overhanging 

all around, and it’s considered 

as the cradle of the Dukedom 

of Urbino and its historical 

lords, the Montefeltro family. 

Antonio Carpegna of Montecopiolo 

(father of certain Montefeltrano 

I, who is considered 

as the founder of the Feltro dynasty), 

bestowed with the title 

of Duke of Montefeltro by the 

Emperor Frederick I (Barbarossa) 

is actually the founder 

of one of the mightiest families 

of the Middle Ages and the Italian 

Renaissance. The Rocca, of 

which only ruins are available 

nowadays, withstood the assaults 

of the Malatesta Family, 

but was destroyed later on by 

Medici Family in 1520. 

Montecopiolo, meaning “a 

cupola” (dome-shaped mount) 

or “cupo”, (dark, full of caves) 

soars with its white calcareous 

rocks amid the Upper Conca 

Valley, overlooking the village 

of Villagrande beneath. 


On the Mount Carpegna we 

suggest a visit of the architectonical 

complex of the Hermitage 

of the Beata Vergine del 

Faggio, the earliest information 

about which dates from the 

beginnings of the 13 th century. 

Now it includes a Church, a 

stout bell tower and a “romitory”. 

The 12 th century Torre di 

Vedetta (Lookout tower) in 

Monteboaggine, overlooking 

the Foglia and the Conca Valleys, 

is also very fascinating. 


DISCOVER 

On the Mount Nerone, in Montecopiolo 

municipal territory is 

a faunistic park, a perfect place 

to engage in short walking 

tours and sighting fallow deer, 

set up in the park some years 

ago. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: gnocchi 

with wild green vegetables 

stuffing, hare à la Pianacquadio, 

larks with grapes, lamb, 

“Molino bosco” trouts, “frittelle” 

(Fritters) of Montecopiolo, 

blackberry jam tart, typical 

cheeses, meat and wild 

game, mushrooms. 


The main attraction are the 

woody mountains of Villagrande, 

a winter ski resort, with 

four ski-slopes (two of them in 

Villagrande and two in Eremo 

di Montecopiolo on the Mount 

Carpegna) provided with skilift 

facilities. 


The Municipality of Montecopiolo 

lies in the territory of the 

Sasso Simone and Simoncello 

Regional Park: among the different 

naturalistic routes we 

suggest the ones leading to the 

springs Costa dei Salti and to 

the Beechwood of Piana- 

MONTECOPIOLO 

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cquadio. Have a walk to the 

Lake of Villagrande, one of the 

sources of the Conca River. 


Fiera di San Marco (Fair of St. 

Marco) - 25 th April; Festa della 

Madonna della Speranza 

(Feast of the Madonna della 

Speranza) - last Sunday in July; 

Festa di Sant’Anna (Feast of 

St. Anna) - second Sunday in 

August; Festa della Beata 

Vergine del Faggio (Feast of 

Beata Vergine del Faggio) in 

Monte Carpegna - Sunday after 

the 15 th of August; Festa di 

San Vicino (Feast of San Vicino) 

- last Sunday in August; 

Festa della Madonna di Pugliano 

(Feast of the Madonna 

of Pugliano) - first Sunday in 

September; Fiera del rapporto, 

Fiera millenaria del bestiame 

(Century-old cattle festival) 

in Pugliano - first Monday 

in October. 

25





Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0722.310100 

www.comune.peglio.pu.it 

comune.peglio@provincia.ps.it 

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Peglio lies amid the upper valley 

of Metauro River, in a 

dominant position, allowing a 

unrivalled panoramic view 

sweeping away from Mount 

Carpegna to Alpe della Luna, 

from Mount Nerone to Mount 

Catria and the town of Urbino. 

The village boasts old Longobard 

origins; mention of it, as 

Castrum Pileum (due to its 

frame work, reminding a 

pileum, military hat) is already 

available in 1232. Occupied 

by Cardinal Albornoz, it became 

a property of the Montefeltro 

family, who employed 

Francesco di Giorgio Martini 

with the restoration of the castle 

walls. In 1631 Peglio became 

a Church territory, together 

with the Dukedom of 

Urbino. It was recognised a 

Municipality straight after the 

Unification of Italy; Peglio 

was brought together with Urbania 

during the Fascist period, 

but it got its independence 

back, following the Liberation 

in 1945. 


Absolutely recommended is 

the 13 th century Tower of 

Girone, the bell of which 

shows interesting inscriptions 

with Gothic characters. The 

Baroque Parish Church of St. 

Fortunato contains a Castel 

Durante’s terracotta, showing 

a Via Crucis of the 17 th century. 

Two crypts, dating from 

Longobard times have been 

recently discovered. 

PEGLIO 

SOMETHING MORE 

DISCOVER 

During the Christmas time 

each town borough uses to 

mounts traditional crib scenes 

in the most picturesque spots of 

the village. At the foot of the 

Metauro is a cippo (memorial 

stone), celebrating the Garibaldi’s 

soldiers killed in 1849 during 

a fight against the Austrian 

troops; not far away is a Monumento 

al Corpo di Liberazione 

(Memorial to the Liberation 

troops), erected to the design of 

Aligi Sassu, to celebrate the 

Gothic Line battlefields. 

WORTH TASTING 

Specialties of the upper Metauro 

Valley, including truffle and 

mushrooms, handmade pasta, 

crostoli with local ham and 

salami variety and wild green 

vegetables. 


The following sport facilities 

are available in the hamlet San 

Donnino: soccer field, two 

Boules (Italian Bocce) rinks, a 

tennis court, a multi-purpose 

sports centre. 


The Casa del Vicario (Vicar’s 

house) is of great interest, due 

to its panoramic position; Also 

the Civic Tower, amid the nature, 

is very fascinating. 

Enjoy a walk in the Monte 

Sassone and Ca’ Romanici 

pinewoods, as well as the interesting 

walking, mountain-bike 

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and horse trekking routes 

along the Apsa stream, winding 

across field paths, country 

lanes and gravel streets. The 

flora includes oak woods and 

conifer reforestation areas. The 

local fauna is characterized by 

diurnal birds of pray (buzzards 

and kestrels), green woodpeckers, 

roe deer and foxes. 

Interesting view spots like a 

charming Metauro water fall, 

geological strata, historic 

buildings (historic Village 

(Borgo) of Collelungo, earlier 

Church of St. Mustiola, Sanctuary 

of Battaglia) are also 

worth mentioning. 


Festa della Battitura (threshing 

festival), celebrated in the 

hamlet San Giovanni in Petra - 

third Sunday in July; Serate 

musicali (Music shows) - July/August; 

Festa dello Sport 

(Sport Festival) - August.





Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0721.890131 


Phone: +39 0721.74291 

www.comune.piagge.pu.it 

comune.piagge@provincia.ps.it 

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MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Tradition relates the existence 

of an ancient Roman 

town called Lubacaria, destroyed 

by the Gothic King 

Alaric (according to some 

opinions ruins of the settlement 

are in the hamlet Cerbara). 

Anew village was built 

on the near hill, overlooking 

the Metauro River and that’s 

the place, that the modern village 

of Piagge (Latin Platea) 

still occupies. From 777 to 

1156 it was a property of the 

Abbey of St. Paterniano of 

Fano. In 1227 the Castle was 

built over new, due to its bad 

conditions. 

Dominated by Lorenzo de 

Medici, was transferred to the 

Della Rovere family from 

1517 until 1631, when it was 

made over to the Popedom together 

with the Dukedom of 

Urbino. 


Evidence of the ancient history 

of the village is a hypogeal 

tomb. Also to be seen is the 

medieval Castle, with ring 

walls and a slender Torre 

dell’Orologio (Clock- tower), 

as well as the 19 th century 

parish Church of St. Lucia, 

containing a Last Supper 

painting, attributed to Giovanni 

Francesco Guerrieri 

and a painting dated 1768, 

representing the Crucifixion, 

by Carlo Magini from Fano. 

In the hamlet Cerbara is the 

Church of St. Ubaldo, owned 

by the princely Albani family. 

PIAGGE 


DISCOVER 

Besome weaving is still practised, 

according to the original 

rural tradition. 

WORTH TASTING 

Specialities are Sangiovese 

wine, virgin olive oil, passatelli, 

tagliatelle, ravioli, gnocchi, 

maltagliati, pizza and salted 

cakes (pizza) with cheese. 


Boules (Italian Bocce) competitions 

are organised very often 

in the village, that is the scene 

of a walking race, called “Di 

Lubacaria”, an amateur bike 

race, as well five-a-side football 

competitions in summer. 


In the surrounding country side 

it is possible to see a number of 

former farm houses, in which 

the rural traditional building 

character of 19 th and 20 th centuries 

is preserved. Several fascinating 

routes of historical 

and naturalistic interest are 

available. We suggest a walk 

along the town walls; here it is 

possible to enjoy a fascinating 

panoramic view sleeping from 

the Adriatic sea to the Furlo 

Gorge. 


Festa di Carnevale (Carnival) - 

February; Fiera di Lubacaria, 

(Fair of Lubacaria) - second 

last Sunday in May; “Arte in 

scena”, theatre shows, painting 

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and sculpture exhibition, held 

during three days in the summer 

time; Presepe vivente, performers 

wearing period customs 

stage the Nativity across 

the streets of the historic centre 

- Christmas time. 

27


PIETRARUBBIA 


Altitude 600/700 m ASL 


Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0722.75110 

+39 0722.75177 


Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune.pietrarubbia.pu.it 

comune.pietrarubbia@ 



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The origin of the Castle of Petra 

Rubea dates from the year 

1000. Following the splitting 

of the Counts of Montecopiolo 

into two branches by the middle 

of the 13 th century, some of 

the properties passed under the 

rule of Count Taddeo, lord of 

Petrarubbia. Disputed between 

the Malatesta and the Montefeltro 

families, the Castle 

(perched atop a hill like a eagle 

nest - the eagle is also in its coat 

of arms) passed to the Montefeltro 

family and, as usual, 

Duke Federico commissioned 

the extension and the strengthening 

of the Rocca. 

The only remains of the old 

structure are the Torre del falco 

(Hawk tower) and the stone 

balls, used in the shooting point 

holes, built into the walls of the 

town houses. In 1631 it passed 

under the rule of the Popedom. 

During the last years people 

abandoned the old village and 

moved down in the valley. 


Appreciate the fascinating historic 

centre, with the ruins of 

the old Castello-torre (Tower 

Castle) of Pietrarubbia, indicated 

by Cardinal Albornoz as 

“castrum inexpugnabile” in the 

14 th century; the Convent of 

Friars Minor in Ponte Cappuccini 

was erected at beginnings 

of the 16 th century, enlarged in 

the 18 th century. 

Of great interest are the Church 

of St. Silvestro, containing a 

marble altar and a modern rose 

window by sculpturer Arnaldo 

Pomodoro, (Pietrarubbia Honorary 

Freeman) and the Romanesque 

Church of St. Arduino. 

In the Multimedial Natural 

Museum you will discover information 

and peculiarities 

about the flora, the fauna and 

the geology of Montefeltro. 


DISCOVER 

On display in the historic centre 

is a Sculpture Permanent 

exhibition, set up by the Centro 

TAM (Trattamento Artistico 

Metalli - Artistic metalwork 

foundation), created by the 

Municipality with Arnaldo Pomodoro’s 

partnership. The 

Centro per l’Artigianato Artistico 

del Montefeltro (Montefeltro 

Artistic Handycraft foundation) 

contains important 

handicrafts, designed by local 

craftsmen. 

WORTH TASTING 

Tasteful black truffle or “scorzone”, 

prestigious white truffle 

and mushrooms. Excellent 

pasta recipes. “Polenta” is a 

typical local dish, mostly accompanied 

by beans or meat 

ragù-sauce with wild game. 

Notable main courses are: wild 

game, lamb, cattle farmed in 

the local pastureland, and pork 

meat. Specialities are prosciutto 

di Carpegna (Carpegna 

ham), cheeses, honey, wild 

herbs, piadina and local cakes 

like bustrengo. 

PIETRARUBBIA 

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A tennis court and a five-a-side 

football ground are available. 


The century-old Municipal 

Park of St. Silvestro lies along 

the Montefeltro Provincial 

Road in the Hamlet Ponte Cappuccini. 

It’s here, where Matteo 

da Bascio, who inspired the 

foundation of the Capuchin 

Friars, lived in the 15 th century. 

The area has been turned into a 

botanic garden, studying and 

collecting the typical flora of 

the Middle Apennines, provided 

with picnic areas. Ponte 

Cappuccini is located in the 

Sasso Simone and Simoncello 

Regional Park, departure point 

of several fascinating naturalistic 

routes on the Mounts 

Carpegna and Boaggine. Very 

suitable horse trekking itineraries, 

too. Don’t miss paying a 

visit to the rocky spur of Pietrafagnana. 


Festa di S. Eurosia (Feast of St. 

Eurosia) in Pietrarubbia Castello 

- third Sunday in May; 

Festa di S. Antonio (Feast of St. 

Antonio) in Mercato Vecchio - 

second Sunday in June; Festa 

del Crocifisso e degustazione 

dei prodotti tipici (Feast of the 

Crucifix and local typical 

products tasting) in Ponte Cappuccini 

- first Sunday in August; 

Festa al lago del Conte 

(Folk Festival at the lake) - 

third Sunday in August.


SAN GIORGIO DI PESARO 




Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0721.970102 


Phone: +39 0721.74291 

www.comune. san-giorgio.pu.it 

comune.san-giorgio@ 


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MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Scanty information are available 

about San Giorgio’s history. 

What we know for certain, 

is that the building of the Castle 

dates from before the year 

1000 and already in the Middle 

Ages it was a property of Fano 

Abbey of San Paterniano, together 

with the neighbouring 

Castle of Poggio. Afterwards, 

keeping being owned by the 

Popedom, it was incorporated 

into the government system of 

the Vicariate of Mondavio, for 

which San Giorgio used to collect 

in its archives every deed 

issued in the surrounding villages. 

In the 16 th century it became 

a feud of the Leonelli 

family. After Napoleon’s domination 

in Italy, the village got 

back under the ecclesiastic 

government, until it joined by 

plebiscite the new-born Italian 

Kingdom in November 1860. 


The Castle still boasts the old 

ring walls, containing the 

Church of St. Giorgio, that was 

maybe erected earlier than the 

13 th century, but it was re-built 

in Neoclassical style in 1841; 

in it you can see a wooden Crucifix. 

Of great interest in the village, 

lying downhill the Castle, 

is the Church of Holy Spirit of 

1787, serving today as stage for 

cultural events. It contains 

some valuable paintings, one 

representing the Descent of the 

Holy Spirit, dating from the 

16 th century. Not far away from 

the village is the 19 th century 

Small Church of the Crucifix, 

built over the earlier Church of 

St. Maria di Castagneto, which 

only some old frescoes are left 

of. 

WORTH TASTING 

There are different local products 

and recipes, based on tradition 

and wellness. 


Among the different historical 

and naturalistic tours we suggest 

the one leading to the 

small castle of Poggio; in it 

were the Franciscan Church 

and the Convent of St. Maria 

della Misericordia, erected in 

1523 by the noble man Mariotto 

Sajano; now you can visit the 

20th century Church of St. 

Pasquale, a big building, containing 

old worthy paintings 

and wooden sacred furniture, 

like the monumental 18 th century 

choir, belonging to the earlier 

church. The modern church 

is now a place of local pilgrimage. 


Festa di San Giuseppe Lavoratore 

(Feast of St. Giuseppe, 

the workman) - 19 th March; 

Fiera di San Giorgio (Fair of 

St. Giorgio) - 25 th April; Festa 

dell’Osteria e Fiera dei ricordi 

(The Inn festival and the Fair of 

memories) - 25 th April; Festa 

di San Pasquale Baylon (Feast 

of St. Pasquale Baylon) - 17 th 

May; Festa d’estate (Summer 

festival) with typical food and 

URBINO 

PESARO 

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drink selling stands - July and 

August; Autunno: sapori, colori, 

suoni (“Autumn: flavours, 

colours and sounds”) traditional 

festival with warm chestnuts, 

wine and bonfires - October; 

Natale sotto i cipressi e 

mercatino (Christmas under 

the Cypresses and market) - 

December. 

29


SANT’IPPOLITO 




Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0721.728144 


Phone: +39 0721.74291 

www.comune. santippolito.pu.it 

comune.santippolito@provincia.ps.it 

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MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The territory of Sant’Ippolito has 

been inhabited since the prehistoric 

time, as the big number of 

stone household objects, found out 

in the Tarugo valley and showed in 

the Civic Museum in Fossombrone 

evidences. In the Roman time it belonged 

to the important Municipium 

of Forum Sempronii. Following 

the spread of Christianity in the 

area, the Pieve of St. Ippolito was 

erected on a near hill. After the year 

1000 the village, having the same 

name as the Pieve, developed 

around the Church and was initially 

ruled by the Episcopal government. 

Supported by the Municipality 

of Fossombrone, Sant’Ippolito 

got its administrative freedom 

from the bishops’ rule in 1255 and 

became systematically part of Fossombrone 

country side (contado). 

The Malatesta family ruled over 

the village during over hundred 

years, the Montefeltro family over 

the subsequent 60 years (during 

which Francesco di Giorgio Martini 

built the Rocca) and then the village 

was administrated by the Della 

Rover during 120 years. Finally, 

it passed under the Popedom from 

1631 till 1860. 


Don’t miss visiting the 18 th century 

Town Hall, containing a polychrome 

stone Madonna of the 17 th 

century and a 18 th century beautiful 

fire place, once housed in the 

near Palazzo Nicoletti; of great interest 

is also Palazzo Guerra, dating 

from the 17 th century with very 

peculiar decorative wall sculptures. 

Not far away is a shrine with 

a Praying Madonna, local worship 

place. We also recommend a visit 

to the 18 th century Bell Tower and 

the Church of St. Giuseppe, erected 

in the 17 th century. In the parish 

Church it is possible to appreciate 

a 17 th century polychrome statue 

by an unknown artist. 


DISCOVER 

The century-old tradition of stone 

carving has been preserved up to 

the present, thanks to stone masons 

and marble workers, that are still 

able to work the local sandstone into 

real masterpieces, mostly collected 

in the Museo dell’Arte degli 

scalpellini (Stonemasonry Museum); 

the production of earthenware, 

cane and bamboo handicrafts 

is also worth a mention. 

WORTH TASTING 

Taste the delicious “crescia sfogliata” 

(puff flatbread) 


In Sant’Ippolito is a sport fishing 

lake and an Adventure park (Rock- 

’n Ropes), with adrenalin rush providing 

speeding or soaring rides. 

Santo Stefano is a famous race 

horse stud. It is also possible to 

play tennis and five-a-side football, 

as well as engaging in walking 

tours on the circuit of Trekking 

dei Fuochi. 


Just a little bit off the village is Palazzina 

Sabatelli, historic tower 

house with dovecote, recently restored, 

open for visits each Thurs- 

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day in the month or upon request. 

The Bosco della Torre Romana 

(Roman Tower wood), included in 

the Bioitaly project, developed by 

the Italian Ministry of the Environment, 

covers 80 thousand square 

metres along the Tavernelle artificial 

lake. 2 km away from Sant’Ippolito 

is the Casle of Reforzate, 

preserving the original gate with 

the Montefeltro eagle. The Church 

of St. Pietro houses a valuable 17 th 

century painting of the Last Supper, 

and a statue of St. Pietro, dating 

from the 15 th century. Sorbolongo 

is a fortified castle village, 

sited 4 km away from Sant’Ippolito, 

characterized by narrow lanes 

and streets, with its historic Town 

Hall and the slender Church of St. 

Michele. The Church of St. Maurizio 

is annexed to an old Benedictine 

Monastery, built around the 

11 th century. 


Sagra della lumaca, (slug festival) 

in Sorbolongo - June; Gara podistica 

tre castelli (Three castles 

walking race) - 2 nd June; Scolpire 

in piazza, Simposio di scultura in 

pietra arenaria (Stonemasonry 

show and exhibition) - July; Biennale 

sotto le stelle (Biennale under 

star light) - July; Corso di lavorazione 

della pietra arenaria 

(stonemasonry courses) - from 

May to September; Fiera del 

Castello (the Fair of the Castle) in 

Sorbolongo - September; Mostra 

di scultura permanente (Permanent 

sculpture exhibition) - all 

year round.


SASSOFELTRIO 




Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0541.974130 


Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune.sassofeltrio.pu.it 

comune.sassofeltrio@ 


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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Historians relate the existence 

of Sassofeltrio, originally 

called Serra del sasso, already 

in 756 after Christ and its donation 

by Pippin, King of the 

Franks, to the Blessed Pietro, 

marking the appropriation of 

the Castle by the Popedom. 

Other records, dated 962, relate 

that the German Emperor Otto 

gave Ulderico of Carpegna the 

feud Sassum together with other 

neighbouring castles. Documents 

of 1232 and 1311 refer to 

the Castrum Saxi as a possession 

of the Rimini Signoria. 

Being a long contested territory 

between the Malatesta and 

the Montefeltro families, it was 

conquered by Captain Giacomo 

Piccinino for the Dukes of 

Urbino. 

Especially under the rule of 

Federico of Montefeltro, the 

Rocca was erected to the design 

of the Senese architect 

Francesco di Giorgio Martini. 

Afterwards, the village passed 

under the rule of the Church 

again. 


The village has preserved its 

medieval framework with 

overhanging defence walls, 

testifying its illustrious past. Its 

natural setting, a hilly landscape, 

is absolutely fascinating 

and evocative itself. The Rocca 

Feltresca, designed by Francesco 

di Giorgio Martini, was 

completely ruined in 1819 ands 

still today only a few remains 

can be seen. 


DISCOVER 

The village, perched atop a 

rocky spur, in a chalk pits area. 

WORTH TASTING 

Amongst the typical products 

we recommend piadina, tagliatelle 

and passatelli. 


Of great interest is the typical 

Casa Pasquali. 

In the hamlet Valle Sant’Anastasio, 

near Sassofeltrio, is a 

sulphurous and alkaline water 

source. 


Primo Maggio Frattese, motocross 

competitions, horse 

race and other events - May; 

Serate danzanti alla rocca 

(Dancing eveningsat the Rocca) 

- July and August; Festa del 

Patrono (Feast of the Patron 

Saint) in Valle Sant’Anastasio - 

August; Sagra dei fagioli e 

delle cotiche (Beans and pork 

rinds Festival) in the hamlet 

Fratte - last week end in September. 

SASSOFELTRIO 

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PESARO 

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31


SERRA SANT’ABBONDIO 




Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0721.730120 


Phone: +39 0721.735701 

www.comune. 

serrasantabbondio.pu.it 

comune.serra@provincia.ps.it 

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The territory has been inhabited 

since the Iron Age. Even before 

the village was founded in 

the 13 th century, a Serra 

“closed place” and a Church 

dedicated to St. Abbondio were 

already there. Serra Sant’Abbondio 

was founded by the 

Municipality (Comune) of 

Gubbio in the 13 th century and 

became a strategic place for the 

control and the defence of the 

shortest, yet impassable passage 

between Umbria and the 

Adriatic Coast. Serra Sant’Abbondio’s 

history from the 14 th 

century is part of the history of 

the Dukedom of Urbino, that finally 

incorporated it into its territories 

in 1348. 


The modern urban frame work 

still preserves the medieval 

structure, including two of the 

four original gates: Porta Santa 

with Tower and Porta di Macione, 

both of them dating from 

the 13 th century. Also to be 

seen are the 14 th century 

Church of St. Maria della Canale, 

containing frescoes by 

the Umbrian School; the Crypt 

of St. Biagio, built in the 4 th (or 

5 th ) century, using Roman remains; 

the splendid Hermitage 

of Santa Croce di Fonte Avellana, 

(its building started 

around the year 1000), including 

a Church with Crypt, a bell 

tower, cloister, chapterhouse, 

scriptorium, monks cells, guest 

quarters and the “D. Alighieri” 

Library, with more than 10,000 

ancient volumes. The Hermitage, 

mentioned by Dante 

Alighieri in the 21 st Canto of 

Paradiso is a place for study 

and contemplation, founded in 

980 by St. Romuald and developed 

by St. Pier Damiani. A 

Camaldolese Benedectine 

monks community manages 

the Hermitage today. 


DISCOVER 

An old tradition records that 

Dante was hosted in the Hermitage 

of Fonte Avellana after 

1310. About 300 hundred metres 

off the hermitage, you will 

find a spot allowing you to hear 

the mountain echoing an entire 

hendecasyllable. In the past 

Serra Sant’Abbondio was 

called Serra Sant’Onda, maybe 

due to its fascinating landscape. 

WORTH TASTING 

Worth tasting are the “crescia” 

with ham and wild green vegetables, 

tagliatelle, ravioli, cappelleti, 

polenta, wild game, 

wild boar, mushrooms, truffle, 

“castagnole” (Carnival fried 

cakes) and jam tarts. 


The splendid flora of Fonte 

Avellana includes downy oaks, 

beeches, oaks, chestnut trees, 

hazelnut tree (“avellana”is the 

historic name for “Hazel nut”) 

and a famous century-old yew. 

The Hermitage, sited at the foot 

of the Mount Catria, is the departure 

point of several 

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trekking tours, winding amid 

beech, oak and hazelnut 

groves. Many of the mentioned 

tracks (e.g. Sentiero Italia and 

Sentiero Piergiorgio Frassati) 

are included in the circuit of 

Trekking dei Fuochi. 


Sacra rappresentazione della 

Passione di Gesù (Sacred representation 

of the Passion of 

Christ) - Palm Sunday; Festa 

paesana (Village Festival) in 

Petrara - second Sunday in July; 

Sagra della trippa (tripe 

Festival) in Poggetto - first 

Sunday in August; Festa della 

Madonna della Neve (Feast of 

the Madonna of Snow) in Montevecchio 

- 5 th August; Festa 

d’estate (Summer Festival) - 

14 th /15 th August; Palio della 

Rocca - Sunday before the 16 th 

of September; Fiera di S. Abbondio 

(Fair of St. Abbondio) - 

16 th September; Cena del Poeta 

(Poet’s dinner) - last Saturday 

in November.





Distance 



i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0722.629128 

+39 0722.629129 


Phone: +39 0722.727003-4 

+39 0722.728233 

www.comune.tavoleto.pu.it 

comune.tavoleto@provincia.ps.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Tavoleto is sited ontop a rocky 

spur on the leftside of the 

Foglia Mid-Valley. Originated 

in the Middle Ages, it has been 

a contested territory between 

the Malatesta and the Montefeltro 

families during centuries. 

The Dukes of Urbino 

erected there a Rocca, that was 

demolished in 1865. 


The village lies in the heart of 

the Montefeltro, a land characterized 

by castles, medieval 

borghi, rural parish churches 

and defence walls, erected and 

demolished during centuries 

of disputes. A typical example 

is the Castle of Petrangolini of 

1865 with its tower, original 

furniture and arms, that was 

actually re-built over the foundations 

of the historic Rocca, 

erected in 1462 by Francesco 

di Giorgio Martini on Federico 

da Montefeltro’s commission. 

Part of the defence walls of the 

original Rocca are preserved 

in the Castle, too. 


DISCOVER 

The village might be named 

after the amount of wood, 

gathered in this area and than 

transferred to Rome; Right in 

Tavoleto, wood logs were 

worked out into beams and 

boards (Tavola, hence Tavoleto). 

Today, economy main activity 

is footware and mattress manufacturing 

industry. 

TAVOLETO 

WORTH TASTING 

Amongst the typical products 

we recommend “tortellini al 

pasticcio”, roastbeef, tagliatelle, 

lamb, and guinea-hen, 

rubbit à la “cacciatora” 

(Hunter’s style), stuffed turkey, 

wild game, appetizers with natural 

local products, “piada 

sfogliata” (puff flatbread) with 

ham. Top production of Casciotta 

di Urbino DPO. 


It’s a suitable area for walking, 

mountain-bike and horse 

trekking tours. 


The Val Ventena, a charming 

valley, sited partly in the municipal 

territory of Tavoleto 

and partly in Auditore, is also 

worth a visit: Enjoy its unspoiled 

ecosystem with untouched 

pristine flora and fauna. 


Sagra dell’asparago (Asparagus 

Festival) - third Sunday in 

May; Processione della Madonna 

del Sole (Procession of 

Madonna del Sole) - last Sunday 

in May; Festa di San Vincenzo 

Martire (Feast of St. Vincenzo 

martyr) - last Sunday in 

August; Sagra della polenta 

(Polenta Festival) - third Sunday 

in September. 

TAVOLETO 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO

PROVINCE OF ANCONA

Province of Ancona 




Distance 

from Ancona 49 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 071.9674212 

www.comune.barbara.an.it 

protocollo@comune. 

barbara.an.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The castle of Barbara was originally 

built as a fortress after 

the destruction of the Roman 

town Suasa. After being a Longobard 

outpost, it was turned 

into an ecclesiastic feud belonging 

to the Benedictine 

Abbey of St. Maria of Sitria. 

The municipality (Comune) 

was established in 1257 under 

the protectorate of Jesi. Concerning 

the origin of the name, 

there is no document offering 

an exact solution. As the village 

was located in very last territory 

of the Longobard dominion 

of Spoleto, close to the Byzantine 

territory of Senigallia, it is 

pretty likely that the name derives 

from barbaro, “Barbarian” 

in the original meaning of 

the term. 


The historic centre of the village 

is organised on two levels: 

the Castle is oriented to the hilltop, 

while the Borgo and the old 

walled structure of Castellaro 

are located in the sea direction. 

The oldest nucleus is the Castle 

(13 th - 14 th centuries), with the 

city gate, the walls and the rampart. 

Of particular interest are 

The Church of St. Barbara, the 

village’s patron Saint, containing 

the Madonna of the Olive 

tree, painted on a millstone; the 

parish Church of St. Maria Assunta, 

built in 1768, housing 

important paintings by Pomarancio 

and the Istrian painter 

Francesco Trevisani; in the 

charming Church of St. Fortu- 

BARBARA 

nato there is a fresco, dating 

from the 15 th century, created 

by Andrea di Bartolo. 


DISCOVER 

In the historic area of Castellaro 

there are a lot of tunnels 

and caves, originally dug into 

the local sandstone to be used 

as shelters and escape routes to 

the moat and the castle during 

sieges; today, they are used as 

cellars to store food, or as 

restaurants full of charm. Of 

particular interest is a shrine, 

known as Madonna of the bastard 

child (according to the tradition 

a illegitimate child was 

abandoned near the shrine) 

decorated with a picturesque 

popular wall painting. 

WORTH TASTING 


we recommend: excellent 

wines (Esino, Verdicchio dei 

Castelli di Jesi, Rosso Piceno) 

and olive oil. 


Of particular interest are Palazzo 

Albani, aristocratic building 

restored in the 18 th century, 

housing the Town Hall and 

Palazzo Mattei, built in the 16 th 

century. 

The road connecting Barbara 

and Montale, as well as the 

road leading to Ostra Vetere 

and to the hamlet Costa are particularly 

panoramic; have a 

walk along the Nevola river to 

appreciate the typical river 

URBINO 

PESARO 

BARBARA 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

bank vegetation. An excursion 

to the picturesque waterfalls, 

located near the border to the 

municipality of Ostra Vetere, in 

a charming badlands (calanchi) 

landscape. 


Festa del castello (Castle’s festival) 

- first week in August; 

Festa dentro le mura (Festival 

in the castle walls) - November/December; 

Festa della Patrona 

Santa Barbara (Feast of 

the Patron Saint, St. Barbara) - 

4 th December; Fiera di Santa 

Barbara (Fair of St. Barbara) - 

Sunday after the 4 th of December; 

Presepe vivente (Staging 

of the Nativity) - Christmas 

time and Epiphany/6 th January.


CASTEL COLONNA 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 071.7957120 

+39 071.7957970 

www.comune.castel-colonna.an.it 

comune.castelcolonna@ 

provincia.ancona.it 

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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Castel Colonna is a small, but 

picturesque village, lying on a 

natural spur, whose origin is 

still uncertain; the most likely 

possibility among several ones 

is that it was founded by people 

escaping from the old town 

of Suasa, destroyed by Alaric 

in 409. 

Between the 13 th and the 15 th 

century the whole territory of 

Castel Colonna belonged to 

the Benedictine Monks of 

Fonte Avellana, who had several 

buildings and stores in the 

area. Afterwards, it became 

property of the Dukedom of 

Urbino and in 1631 it was 

made over to the Popedom. 


The most characteristic element 

of this Borgo is the city 

gate with brick rampart, dating 

from the 13 th century, known 

as Torre Vittoria Colonna; of 

particular interest are also the 

ring walls, erected in the 13 th 

century, that maintain in their 

oldest part a bank with parapet 

and bracket cornice, though 

undergoing later modifications. 

The Church of St. Mauro 

Abate is also worth visiting. 


DISCOVER 

Until 1921 Castel Colonna 

was known as the Tomb of 

Senigallia. The original builtup 

area leans on a light slope, 

delimited by the ship shaped 

ring walls. Outside the original 

borgo, in the suburb Croce, has 

developed a new mainly residential 

area. 

WORTH TASTING 

The excellent biological wine 

is absolutely recommended. 

The village will be soon obtaining 

a designation for its most 

typical product, the Frattula 

Salami. 


Castelcolonna has got a park 

with ponds suitable for fishing; 

sport fans can also enjoy a multi-purpose 

ground with sport 

facilities. 


In the hamlet Francavilla 

stands the old Church of Misericordia, 

with annexed parvis, 

surrounded on two sites by a 

blind archway building and delimited 

by a gate. A beautiful 

tree-lined avenue leads to the 

church complex, which was 

once a Camaldolese monastery. 

To recommend also the track 

into the thick vegetation characterising 

the Fosso (ditch) 

della Bruciata, close to the border 

to Senigallia. The territory 

offers lots of panoramic view 

spots: particularly, in the Croce 

area, over the hill of Montesaltarello 

and Francavilla, in 

the hamlet Consolazione and 

along the road to Roncitelli. 


Festa della Sega vecchia (Old 

Saw Festival) - Mid-Lent; Fes- 

URBINO 

PESARO 

CASTEL COLONNA 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

ta del salame di Frattula (Festival 

of Frattula Salami) - January 

and April; Concorso di 

pittura (Painting contest) - between 

the end of July and the 

beginning of August; Festa 

dela Patrona S. Marina (Feast 

of the Patron Saint, St. Marina) 

- 17 th July; Festa d’estate 

(Summer Festival) - second 

week end in August. 

39


CASTELLEONE DI SUASA 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 071.966113 

Pro Suasa: 

Phone: +39 071.966770 

Cons. Città Romana di Suasa: 

Phone: +39 071966524 

www.castelleone.disuasa.it 

comune@castelleone.disuasa.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The village of Castelleone di 

Suasa rises on a hill, overlooking 

the middle valley of the Cesano 

River; the typical medieval 

structure is still well preserved: 

narrow streets delimited 

by the ring walls. Castelleone 

really flourished in the first half 

of the 12 th century, when Livia 

della Rovere, wife of Francesco 

Maria II and last Duquesse of 

Urbino had her residence there 

for a while. Downhill the castle, 

it is still possible to see the ancient 

settlement of Suasa, a Roman 

municipium, established 

according to the Lex Flaminia 

dated 232 before Christ. 

Thanks to scrupulous excavation 

a rich private house (domus), 

belonging to the senatorial 

family Coiedii, dating from 

the 2 nd century after Christ was 

found out, as the valuable mosaic 

floors representing mythological 

scenes, as well as the 

rare examples of wall painting 

in Pompeian style, the remains 

of several statues and the big 

quantity of every-day objects 

prove. 


After carrying out the excavations 

in the area of Pian Volpello, 

the Regional Archaelogical 

Park of Suasa has been created, 

containing the ruins of a big amphitheatre, 

including the cavea 

and the underground passages, 

as well as the forum, the old financial 

heart of Roman towns 

and the Coedii’s aristocratic domus, 

mentioned before. 

The findings coming from the 

site are now collected in the Archaeological 

Museum, housed 

in the impressive Palazzo Della 

Rovere. Also the former 

Monastery of Minimi Friars, today 

seat of the Town Hall, contains 

some findings. In the 

Parish Church of SS. Pietro and 

Paolo it is possible to appreciate 

some important paintings and 

masterpieces. The Church of St. 

Francesco di Paola is also 

worth a mention. 


DISCOVER 

The whole municipal territory 

testifies the traditional devoutness 

of the people of The 

Marche: several shrines and 

small churches are spread 

around the country side (e.g. 

shrines devoted to St. Pietro 

Martyr, St. Lucia, St. Martino). 

Worth mentioning are also the 

Church of Madonna del Vallato, 

an old shrine, that Francesco 

Maria della Rovere wanted to 

enlarge and that contains a tempera 

painting, dating from the 

17 th century, as well as a very 

unusual ex voto and a shrine 

called Church of St. Caterina. 

WORTH TASTING 

Important production of wines 

with Registered Designation of 

Origin (Verdicchio dei Castelli di 

Jesi, Rosso Piceno), table white 

and red wines and the typical local 

red wine Rosso Suasano. The 

onions of Suasa are also excellent. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

CASTELLEONE DI S. 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 


Driving to Senigallia you will 

find Villa Pianetti, with annexed 

church, standing on a hill in a 

wide woody area. Castelleone 

boasts also further green areas: 

the Boschetto, near the Primary 

School, the big wood area in 

Croce del Termine, as well as the 

whole course of Via del Bozzo, 

with thick bushes and panoramic 

hilly and badlands (calanchi) 

landscape. 

The course of the Cesano River 

(including small water falls and 

fishing areas) and the Nevola 

River, with thick vegetation and 

several forest trees, are suitable 

areas to enjoy naturalistic tours. 


Festa del Perdono (Feast of the 

forgiveness), popular devoutness 

celebration with Fair - Sunday 

and Monday after Easter; 

Festa del Patrono san Pietro 

Martire (Feast of the Patron 

Saint, St. Pietro Martyr) - 29 th 

April; Festa della cipolla (Onion 

Festival) exhibition, market and 

cultural events - September.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: Phone: +39 0732.973014 


Phone: +39 0732.6952 

Frasassi Consortium : 

Phone: +39 0732.97211 

www.comune.genga.an.it 

comunicazione@comune.genga.an.it 

grotte@frasassi.com 

www.parcogolarossa.it 

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MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The Castle of Genga is located 

in the heart of the Gola della 

Rossa and Frasassi Natural Regional 

Park; its origin is tightly 

connected with Pierosara (old 

Longobard stewarddom of Castelpetroso) 

and to the Monastery 

of St. Vittore. In the borgo, 

that experienced a very flourishing 

period between the 10 th and 

the 11 th century thanks to the 

Counts of Genga, who dominated 

over the territory until 1816, 

the feudal Palace and the impressive 

medieval town walls 

are still preserved. Annibale della 

Genga, later Pope Leo XII 

was born here. Anyway, the history 

of the territory goes further 

back in the past, as several fragments 

of prehistoric stone and 

pottery manufacture found out 

in Donatelli - Colleponi, Pianacci 

and Pianello, Genga’s hamlets, 

prove. 


The Gorge of Frasassi is a real 

marvel of nature. Discovered in 

1971, the caves wind about 20 

km into the mountain and represent 

one of the most interesting 

and known karstic complex in 

Italy. Not far from the caves rises 

the Benedictine Abbey of St. 

Vittore delle Chiuse, one of the 

most important Romanesque 

monuments in the region. 

The annexed Speleo-paleontological 

Museum houses the famous 

ichtthyosaur, a sea reptile 

living 150 millions years ago. 

With its charming location, in 

the heart of the Gorge of Frasas- 

GENGA 

si, the neoclassical Octagonal 

Temple was created by Valadier 

on Pope Leo XII’s commission; 

not far from it is the old Hermitage 

of St. Maria infra saxa, 

dug in a natural cave into the 

mountain. Genga offers the 

tourist the impressive Palazzo 

dei Conti della Genga, as well as 

the Parish Church of St. Maria 

Assunta and, not far away, the 

Pieve of St. Clemente, currently 

turned into an interesting Museum 

of Sacred Arts, which houses 

a very valuable collection. In the 

hamlet Pianello you will find the 

biggest Protovillanovan Necropolis 

of the region. Other archaeological 

sites and charming 

medieval churches, like the old 

Church of St. Ansovino in Avacelli, 

are also to find in the territory. 


DISCOVER 

The name Genga possibly derives 

from the Lombard word 

Zinka, or from genga, meaning 

tuff, or from the German word 

Gang, in the meaning of underground 

passage. The area is actually 

extremely characterized 

by underground caves, like 

Grotta dei Baffoni, Grotta del 

Mezzogiorno, Grotta del Prete, 

Grotta Leonardo. 

WORTH TASTING 

Excellent sausages, salami and 

ham variety, that goes perfectly 

with the local brown bread; 

Tagliatelle, hand made with 

rolling-pin (local word “ra- 

URBINO 

PESARO 

GENGA 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

sagnolo”), the “crescia”, kind of 

“bread pizza” to be roasted in 

the fire coals, slugs and “polenta” 

with wild boar ragù-sauce. 


Genga is the perfect place to relax: 

the Terme of St. Vittore, famous 

and well equipped thermal 

centre, offer treatments with 

natural mineral waters, welling 

about 400 metres from the centre. 

Rowing opportunities at Lago 

Fossi. 


The Gola della Rossa and 

Frasassi Natural Regional Park 

includes several protected areas: 

the floristic are of Valle Scappuccia, 

the area of the Gorge of 

Frasassi, along the course of the 

Sentino River and the WWF Oasis 

of Valmontagnana. This area, 

with high crests, panoramic 

tracks, century-old forests, is 

ideal for trekking (e.g. Sentiero 

dei Gradoni) and climbing 

lovers, as well as for rafting, 

horse-riding and mountain bike 

practisers. 


Sacro Incanto, concerts held in 

the Monastery of the Frasassi 

Gorge - June; Vetrina dell’artigianato 

artistico (Exhibition of 

artistic handicrafts) - from the 

last week of July to the end of 

August; Presepe vivente (Staging 

of the Nativity) in the 

Frasassi cave - Christmas time. 

41





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0731.814820 


Phone: +39 0732.6952 

www.comune.mergo.an.it 

protgen@comune.mergo.an.it 


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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The village has been inhabited 

before and during the Roman’s 

time, as the archaeological 

findings, discovered in the 

Castelluccio area, prove, but 

Mergo experienced its most 

flourishing period in the Middle 

Ages. In a document of 

1233 Mergo is mentioned as a 

castle belonging to the territory 

of Serra San Quirico. The Town 

Hall houses an important 

parchment dating from the 

middle of the 16 th century, representing 

the Castle Articles, 

that is life regulations for the 

inhabitants of the castle. Mergo 

has been always depending on 

Serra San Quirico, with exception 

of a short phase, during 

which it belonged to Jesi. In 

1827 Pope Leo XII issued a decree, 

designating Mergo as 

Municipality (Comune) and set 

up the parish of San Lorenzo. 

From 1928 until 1946 was incorporated 

with Rosora, until it 

gained its autonomy again. 

Mergo’s coat of arms shows a 

bird (a merganser); the built-up 

area rose around the Castle, but 

only fragments of the Castle 

walls are still to see nowadays. 


The territory of Mergo rises almost 

unexpected on the left 

side of the Esino Valley, with 

the Apennines on the background. 

Evidences of its old 

past are the ruins of the town 

walls, remains of a quadrangular 

keep and the castle gate; on 

one of the altars in the Parish 

MERGO 

Church of St. Lorenzo it is possible 

to appreciate a Rosary 

Madonna by Ercole Ramazzani 

from Arcevia. Of particular 

interest are the Palazzo of St. 

Marciana, belonging to the old 

Borgiani family, Palazzo Conti 

in the hamlet Acquabona and 

Palazzo dei Conti Vallemani in 

the hamlet Montirone. 


DISCOVER 

The name derives from Merago, 

akin to the medieval Latin 

word mera, lacus palustris, 

“marshland”, clearly referring 

to the Esino river, that flows 

downhill the village. Around 

the middle of the 15 th century 

Mergo together with Massaccio 

and Maiolati Spontini was 

the scene of the activity of the 

heretical sect Fraticelli. 

WORTH TASTING 

Typical dishes are polenta with 

stockfish, beans with pork 

rinds, tripe, “braciole del contadino”, 

farmer’s steaks, crescia 

(bread pizza) and …Verdicchio 

d.o.c., of course. 


Roller-Skating rinks, tennis 

fields and boules (it. Bocce) 

rinks are available. 


Naturalistic routes, winding 

across the soft hills, give above 

all walkers, horse-riders and 

bikers the opportunity to enjoy 

landscape, artistic and histori- 

URBINO 

PESARO 

MERGO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

cal spots of great beauty. 


Mergo d’Estate (Mergo in 

Summer) theatre and music 

shoes - July/August; Festa del 

Patrono San Lorenzo (Feast of 

the Patron Saint, St. Lorenzo) - 

10 th August; “San Martì all’Angeli”, 

traditional food and 

drink event in Mergo and its 

hamlet Angeli - November.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0731.63013 

+39 0731.63000 

www.comune.morrodalba.an.it 

comune@comune. 

morrodalba.an.it 

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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The ruins of two Roman villas 

found in the hamlet Sant’Amico 

prove that Morro d’Alba was already 

inhabited during the Roman 

time. In 1984 in the same 

area was found a golden medallion 

with the inscription Theodoricus 

pius princeps invictus 

semper (today displayed in the 

Museo delle Terme in Rome); 

the origin of the settlement can 

be actually traced back to 1000, 

when the village is mentioned as 

curtis in an imperial decree issued 

by Fredrerick I. In 1213 

was indicated as castrum in an 

other announcement, stating the 

commitment of Senigallia to 

transfer Morro d’Alba to Jesi. 

Over the centuries we can find 

records of several sieges and incursions, 

including one dated in 

1365, that caused the destruction 

of the town walls, that had 

to be re-built. Morro d’Alba was 

transferred to the Malatesta 

family from Rimini and was victim 

of plunderers from Ancona 

and, later on, of Francesco 

Maria Della Rovere. In 1808 under 

Napoleon’s rule it was taken 

away from Jesi and in 1860 it 

was transferred to the province 

of Ancona. The name reminds 

the mora o cippo di confine sull’alba 

(border marker on the 

hill), marking the distinction between 

the medieval boards of 

Jesi and Senigallia. In 1861 Alba 

was added to the name Morro. 


The small historic centre preserves 

a very interesting archi- 

MORRO D’ALBA 

tectural structure, as it is completely 

surrounded by overhanging 

ring walls, dating from 

the middle of the 15 th century. 

The top of the high sheer walls 

houses elegant dwellings; underneath, 

winds the so called 

Strada della Scarpa, a completely 

covered parapet walkway, 

whose sections are delimited 

by five bastions, amazing 

panoramic view points. 

The Church of St. Gaudenzio 

and St. Benedetto contain two 

paintings by Ercole Ramazzani 

from Arcevia; worth a mention 

is also the tavola centinata 

(painting with rounded top) by 

Claudio Ridolfi representing a 

Crowning of Virgin and Saints, 

housed in the Town Hall. The 

Utensilia Museum cannot be 

missed. The Church of the SS. 

Annunziata of 1670, known as 

Church of St. Teleucania has 

been recently transformed into 

an Auditorium, used to hold 

conferences, exhibitions and 

concerts. 


DISCOVER 

Underneath the village you can 

find a parallel underground 

town, composed by a labyrinth 

of caves dug in the cellars over 

the centuries. 

WORTH TASTING 

The main typical product is the 

rubin-coloured red wine Lacrima 

di Morro d’Alba, endowed 

with Registered Designation of 

Origin. The excellent olive oil 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MORRO D’ALBA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

“verdastro” (greenish) is produced 

in very small quantity by 

little local oil mills. 


The territory offers opportunities 

for walking, biking and 

horse trekking tours. Soccer 

fields, tennis courts and boules 

(It. Bocce) rinks, as well as play 

grounds for children will let 

you enjoy your stay. An 

equipped Camper parking area 

is also available. 


In the hamlet Sant’Amico is the 

old residence of the family 

Marotti Campi, standing amid 

vineyards. Among the ruraltouristic 

routes the Via del Sole 

is particularly enjoyable: it includes 

two interesting mountain-bike 

tracks and a horse 

trekking itinerary. 


Raduno Nazionale dei Camper 

d’epoca (National vintage 

camper rally), the sole event in 

Italy - spring time; Sagra della 

Lacrima (Lacrima Festival) - 

first week end of May; Cantamaggio 

- third Sunday in May; 

In colors - July; Calici di stelle 

(Star glasses) - second half of 

August; Festa del Patrono San 

Michele Arcangelo (Feast of 

the Patron Saint, St. Michele 

Arcangelo) - 29 th September. 

43





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 071.7107005 


Phone: +39 071.7107552 

www.provincia.ancona.it/ 

comuni/offagna 

comune.offagna@ 

provincia.ancona.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

It’s a typical village of the Marca 

Anconetana, belonging to 

the territory of Osimo between 

the 13 th and the 14 th century 

and transferred to Ancona in 

1445. The name may derive 

from the Afrani, a Roman family 

owning at its time a big latifundium, 

as large as the territory 

covered by the Offagna municipal 

territory nowadays. The 

history of the villages reflects 

the history of its impressive 

Rocca, a fortress that the people 

of Ancona built for defence purposes. 


The Rocca of Offagna is one of 

the most beautiful and impressive 

fortresses in the region. It 

was erected between 1454 and 

1456 on the ruins of a previously 

existing castle and it stands 

on a big tuff spur, that enhances 

its defensive efficiency. It is 

provided with external ring 

walls and keeps and it’s a rare 

example of a transitional fortification, 

probably designed by 

Lombard builders. Still appreciable 

is the impressive donjon, 

containing an amazing bronze 

bell, dated 1447 and founded 

by certain Jacobus from Istria. 

The Rocca houses a documented 

Museum of Ancient Arms. 

The interesting Natural Science 

Museum Luigi Paolucci is 

also worth visiting; it contains 

paleontological, mineralogical, 

zoological and botanical 

collections, extremely helpful 

to understand the evolution of 

OFFAGNA 

the territory of The Marche. 

Andrea Vici, architect and Vanvitelli’s 

apprentice is the designer 

of the 13 th century 

Church of SS. Sacramento, the 

Monastery and the Presbitery 

of the Parish Church of St. 

Tommaso. This one houses an 

altar-piece dating from the 17 th 

century, dedicated to St. 

Bernardino, the village’s Patron 

Saint. Coats of arms of the 

17 th century are built in the 

walls of the hall of the Town 

Hall. In the Church of St. Lucia 

it is possible to appreciate a 

wooden Crucifix dating from 


WORTH TASTING 

Notable production of Rosso 

Conero (red wine with Registered 

Designation of Origin) 

and excellent olive oil. Variety 

of tasteful cheeses, hams and 

meats. In the area there is an ostrich-farm, 

too. 


A soccer field and a gym are 

available. 


The hills between Offagna, 

Polverigi, Agugliano and Camerata 

Picena offer interesting 

historical and artistic routes; for 

that reason the area is known as 

Terra dei castelli (Land of castles). 

These villages, located 

between the rivers Esino and 

Musone, used to provide for the 

defence of Ancona, thanks to a 

structured defence system, 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

OFFAGNA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

composed by two concentric 

fortification systems, including 

about fifteen fortified ancient 

villages, castles and fortresses. 


Festa della Madonna della 

Rocca (Feast of Madonna della 

Rocca) - last week of April; 

Festa del Santo Patrono (Feast 

of the Patron Saint) - last Sunday 

in May; Feste Medievali 

(Medieval Festivals): during 

some days the whole village experiences 

a kind of transformation, 

getting back the atmosphere 

of the Middle Ages 

across all squares and streets - 

last week of July; Festa del SS. 

Crocifisso (Feast of the Holy 

Crucifix) - last Sunday in July; 

Poetando e ballando sotto la 

Rocca (Poetry and dance event 

under the Rocca) - August; 

Fiera del Colombaccio (Fair of 

the Colombaccio) - last Sunday 

in September; Concerto di Natale 

(Christmas Concert) - end 

of December.


POGGIO SAN MARCELLO 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0731.813446 

www.comune. 

poggiosanmarcello.an.it 


poggiosanmarcello.an.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

A villa with annexed small 

church, called San Marcello al 

Poggio, located on the top of a 

hill gave the name to the castle, 

that rose later on not far way. 

Considering the archaeological 

findings discovered in the area, 

dating from prehistoric to Roman 

time, as well as from early 

Christian to Romanesque time, 

the castle originated in the remote 

past. Findings like dagger 

blades, fibulas, armours, earthenware 

and the discovery of a 

Picene worrior’s tomb are evidences 

of the human presence 

in the area since the 6 th century 

before Christ. 

The village, always tightly 

linked to Jesi was likely provided 

with a fortification structure 

already in 1261, when it 

was known as Castello di Poggio 

San Marcello. In 1503 the 

castle walls were strengthened 

with the addiction of the bastions, 

designed by Domenico 

di Giovanni from Bellinzona. 

In 1926 Poggio San Marcello 

lost its autonomy and was assembled 

with Castelplanio, but 

in 1947 the village got its administrative 

independence 

back again. 


The village is composed by 

three parallel main streets 

crossed perpendicularly by 

narrow lanes, creating a charming 

and evocative atmosphere. 

Porta of St. Nicola of 1455 is 

the only fragment of the old 

Castle walls that is still to ap- 

preciate. Also to be seen are the 

17 th century Porta del Soccorso 

and the Parish Church of St. 

Nicola, erected by the middle 

of the 18 th century, containing 

a painting by Ercole Ramazzini 

from Arcevia and a Madonna 

Enthroned by Antonino Sarti 

from Jesi. Not far from the 

mentioned monuments you can 

find the gothic crypt belonging 

to the old Parish Church. Together 

with the Church of St. 

Maria del Monte of the 14 th 

century and the Church of St. 

Marcello al Poggio, the Sanctuary 

of the Madonna del Soccorso, 

built near the town gate 

in 1646, is also worth visiting. 

People are very devoted to the 

Sanctuary, due to the presence 

of the wood carving representing 

a Madonna Enthroned with 

Child of 1608, sited in the high 

altar of the Sanctuary. 


DISCOVER 

During the time between the 

first and the second world wars, 

the most people’s livelihood 

was provided by the Libanori 

Brothers’ Fornace (Brickyard), 

flourishing business that 

contributed to limit emigration 

from the Hinterland to the 

Coast, affecting the most villages, 

including Poggio San 

Marcello. 

WORTH TASTING 

Noteworthy production of cereals, 

oil; excellent Verdicchio 

dei Castelli di Jesi d.o.c. (en- 

URBINO 

PESARO 

POGGIO S. MARCELLO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

dowed with Registered Designation 

of Origin). 


Thanks to its location in the 

Esino Mid-Valley the territory 

is a suitable area to enjoy walking, 

mountain-bike and horse 

trekking itineraries. It’s the perfect 

place to appreciate not only 

the beautiful sweet hilly 

landscape with typical farmer 

buildings spread around, but also 

charming spots of great 

artistic and historical value, 

due to the variety of the old villages, 

that occupy the hilltops. 


Rappresentazioni teatrali 

(Theatre representations) - 

February and March; Poggio 

in Fiore, Flowers, plants and 

handicrafts Trade - last week 

end of April; Festa della 

Madonna del Soccorso (Feast 

of Madonna del Soccorso) - 

second Sunday in May; Festa 

dell’Emigrante (Festival of 

the Emigrant) - 14 th August; 

Presepe vivente (Staging of 

the Nativity) - December. 

45





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0731.813963 

+39 0731.814599 


Phone: +39 0731.813701 


Phone: +39 0732.6952 

www.comune.rosora.an.it 

comune@comune.rosora.an.it 


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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The village probably originated 

in the Early Middle Ages, 

founded by Longobards. The 

hill where the village is located 

must had been covered by a 

thick forest, which was cut 

down, as the etymology of the 

name seems to confirm (Rasa 

area later Rosora). The tight 

connection of Rosora with the 

powerful Abbey of St. Elena 

during the feudal time is 

recorded in a document of 

1180, mentioning Paganello 

de Rosora, an important Rosora 

townsman as Abbey’s protector. 

By the second half of 

the 13 th century the village 

Rosora is already a free Municipality, 

though it belonged 

to the country side (contado) of 

Jesi. Due to its fidelity to Jesi, 

Rosora was endowed with the 

title of fidelis and was allowed 

to provide its coat of arms with 

the same crowned lion rampant. 

From 1926 until 1946 

formed the Municipality of 

Rosora-Mergo, together with 

Mergo; in 1946 Rosora obtained 

its administrative independence 

back. 


The echelon town framework 

is very interesting; it’s characterized 

by roomy space between 

the buildings, arranged 

in rows and the ring walls. 

Fragments of the Ring walls 

(13 th - 15 th century), the gate 

with the original hinges, a semi-circular 

tower with sheer 

basement and a passage under- 

ROSORA 

neath the ring walls, with barrel 

vault resting on round arches 

are the sole traces of the original 

Castle. In the historic centre 

of the village is the rich parish 

Church of St. Michele, erected 

in the 18 th century on a previously 

existing Romanesque 

Church, containing, among 

other well preserved items, a 

wooden Crucifix of the 17 th 

century, created by Pier 

Domenico Nofroschi, considered 

as miraculous, as well as a 

notable painting representing 

St. Giovannino, generally attributed 

to the painter Adrea 

from Jesi. 


DISCOVER 

The hamlet Tesenaria (today 

Tassanare or Croce del Moro) 

is famous for a wooden cross: 

according to a very sad legend 

the “Moro” of the aristocratic 

family of Genga was hanged 

on it. 

WORTH TASTING 


we recommend salami and 

hams, cheeses and oil; wine 

lovers cannot miss tasting the 

excellent Verdicchio, produced 

by lots of little local winegrowers. 


The location of the village allows 

an amazing panoramic 

view sweeping away from 

Mount Catria to the Sibillini 

Mountains and the Adriatic 

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Sea. Thanks to its healthy air 

the territory is a perfect place to 

spend summer holidays. Soccer 

fields, tennis courts and a 

Boules (Bocce) rink are available 

for fitness fans. 


Enjoy the naturalistic Route of 

Granchio Nero, winding along 

the Fosso di Rosora (Rosora 

Ditch, also called Fosso delle 

Macinare), characterized by 

the presence of river crabs 

(black crab); the rich flora and 

fauna of the region include 

beech martens, weasels, badgers, 

dormouses, birds of preys, 

forest trees and a nice cyclamen 

brushwood. Walking 

along the road to the hamlet 

San Giovanni you will appreciate 

several century-old oaks, 

and Pliocene sea deposits containing 

fossil Gastropoda and 

Lamellibranchia. 


Miss Verdicchio - June; Fiera 

del perdono (Fair of the forgiveness) 

in the hamlet Angeli - 

3 rd August; Festa in campagna 

(Festival in the country side) in 

the hamlet Tassanare - first 

week end in September; Convegno 

sul Verdicchio (Conference 

about Verdicchio) - Saturday 

before the Feast of Sapa; 

Festa della Sapa (Sapa Festival) 

- third Sunday in October.


SAN PAOLO DI JESI 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0731.779088 

+39 0731.779141 

www.comune.sanpaolodijesi.an.it 


sanpaolodijesi.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Even if different archaeological 

items have been found in the 

hamlet Follonica, the origin of 

the village can be identified 

with the presence of a small friar 

Church dedicated to St. Paolo. 

This also explains the origin 

of the geographical name Castrum 

Monti Sancti Pauli, from 

which the current name derives. 

The earliest mention of the village 

can be dated around 1079, 

but in a document dated 1275 

San Paolo is mentioned as a castle 

of the country side (contado) 

of Jesi for the first time. The dependance 

on Jesi is further confirmed 

in the Descriptio Marchiae 

Anconitanae and again in 

the Costituzioni Egidiane, enacted 

in 1357 by Cardinal Albornoz. 

After its transfer to the 

Popedom the village of San 

Paolo was extended in 1491. 

Assembled to Monte Roberto in 

1818, it got its autonomy again 

from 1818 till 1929, when San 

Paolo was assembled with 

Staffolo; since 1946 it’s completely 

administratively independent. 


Just entering the village, you 

will find the 18 th century Palazzo 

Bassi; in the heart of the 

borgo stands the Parish 

Church of St. Paolo, built at the 

end of the 18 th century, that 

contains an altar-piece representing 

the Madonna with 

Apostles, created by Pomarancio 

in 1620; of particular interest 

in the same Church are an 

organ by Feliciano Fedeli of 

1737, a wrought-silver goblet of 

1523, coming from the old 

Church of St. Maria dell’Arco 

(of which only ruins are available 

nowadays) and a font of 

1708. In the Church of the Misericordia, 

also called Church 

of the Cementery it is possible 

to appreciate a wall painting, attributed 

to by Andrea from Jesi, 

representing the Madonna with 

St Pauli’s people under her 

cloak (the original piece is currently 

covered by a copy). The 

Town Hall and the elegant Civic 

Tower (unfortunately it was 

damaged by lightning in the 

70s) date from the end of the 

18 th century. 


DISCOVER 

To honour the vocation of this 

land to wine-growing, typical 

for the territory and characterized 

by natural products, the 

municipal authorities arranged 

the restoration of old building in 

the historical centre and created 

the Bottega del Vino, an unmissable 

stopover in the local touristic 

itineraries, where everyone 

can enjoy a wide selection of 

wines of the Marche. 

WORTH TASTING 

Thanks to the location, protected 

from cold winds in winter, 

but airy and cool in the summer, 

the territory of San Paolo is very 

suitable for wine-growing: land 

actually gives on the average 

about one million litres wine a 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

SAN PAOLO DI JESI 

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FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

year, 4.000 litres Verdicchio dei 

Castelli di Jesi. Olive oil is also 

excellent. 


The village is located on the 

right side of the Esino River, on 

a hill leaning over the Staffolo’s 

hill. It’s a very suitable area for 

walks and excursions, enjoying 

amazing panoramic views of 

both the coast and the Apennines. 


The area is characterized by so 

called “bollitori” (kettles), 

small mud-volcanos, often inspiring 

old folk legends and 

imaginings, created by gas 

erupting after going through 

soaked clay strata. These formations 

are particularly present 

in Fonte and Battinebbia, San 

Paolo’s hamlets. 


Festa di San Giuseppe (Feast of 

St. Giuseppe) - March; Infiorata 

del Corpus Domini (Corpus 

Christi Infiorata - Procession 

across the town streets, specifically 

covered with devotional 

flower decorations) - June; Settimana 

gastronomica (Gastronomic 

week) - 15 th August; Andar 

per frantoi e mercatini (free 

visit to oil mills and typical market) 

- October; “Verdicchio in 

versi” poetry contest and the 

Cavata delle Zitelle (Feast celebrating 

the very old folk tradition) 

- 7 th and 8 th December. 

47

PROVINCE OF MACERATA

Province of Macerata 




Distance 

from Macerata 52 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.52143 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 

Monti Sibillini National Park: 

Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.acquacanina.sinp.net 

comune@acquacanina.sinp.net 

www.sibillini.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Acquacanina was initially a 

feud of Count Manardo di 

Sigfredo, who is mentioned in 

a document dated 977. Later it 

was submitted to the Benedictine 

monks, that is under direct 

papal protection. The Valley 

took the name of St. Salvatore 

due to the presence of the 

monks, and Rio River, which 

flows into the Fiastrone River, 

was described as “Sacred”. In 

the 15 th century it became a 

Free Municipality, still being 

under the influence of Camerino. 


Worth visiting are the Romanesque 

Abbey of St. Maria 

di Rio Sacro, the Baroque 

Church of Madonna del Vallone 

with seven altars; the Romanesque 

Church of St. Michele 

Arcangelo with a dovecote 

of the 15 th century; as 

well as the ring walls of the 

castle of the Da Varano family 

from Camerino, recently restored; 

inside is the Romanesque 

Church of St. Margherita. 


DISCOVER 

The etymology of the name is 

uncertain: the first part owes 

its origin to the abundance of 

water in that area; about the 

origin of the second part there 

are some assumptions: it may 

result from Cumina, an herbaceous 

plant that abounded in 

the area, or from the Latin 

ACQUACANINA 

word Cumma, which means 

condominium, that is water of 

common utility. Another supposition 

recalls a dog, likely 

referring to a lookout tower located 

in the Fiastrone Valley; 

this may be confirmed by the 

scene represented in the municipal 

coat of arms, that is a 

watchdog standing on the water. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: cheese, 

salami, honey and cakes. 


The municipal territory is of 

great naturalistic interest, 

since it is located in the heart of 

the Sibilllini Mountains National 

Park. Therefore it offers 

quiet and relaxing summer 

holidays to those people, who 

love walking and going on excursions 

on foot or by mountain 

bike. It is also famous for 

its cross-country skiing tracks 

on Prati di Ragnolo. 


Acquacanina is located in the 

picturesque landscape of the 

Camerino Mountain Community 

(Comunità Montana di 

Camerino) and it is one of the 

l8 Municipalities of the Sibillini 

Mountains National Park. 

There are lots of possibilities 

to discover the different natural 

treasures of the area. 


Sagra della bruschetta (Bru- 

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ACQUACANINA 

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schetta festival) - August; Biennale 

Mostra di antiquariato 

(Biennal Antiques show) - 

August; Serate musicali (Musical 

Evenings) - August.


BELFORTE DEL CHIENTI 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.951011 

+39 0733.951010 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 

www.comune. 

belfortedelchienti.mc.it 

comune@belforte.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The village of Belforte, located 

on the top of a steep hill, is a 

centre rich in artistic evidences 

and in environmental and landscape 

attractions. In the high 

Middle Ages the current territory 

of Belforte was included in 

the court of St. Gregorio in Travenano. 

In 1205 it became part 

of Camerino with the purpose 

to oppose the expansion of Tolentino; 

the following events 

bounded Belforte to the inhabitants 

of Tolentino first, then to 

Camerino, until it finally 

passed under the rule of the 

Popedom in the 16 th century. It 

still preserves its 14 th century 

ring walls and its medieval urban 

system with narrow steep 

and winding roads. 


The noble historic Church of 

St. Eustachio preserves an important 

and valuable Giovanni 

Boccati’s polyptych, dated 

1468; the Church of St. Sebastiano 

has a wonderful portal of 

the 15 th century; in the Church 

of St. Pietro Apostolo you can 

see a processional copper 

Cross in Byzantine style; in the 

Church of St. Giovanni Battista 

you can find interesting frescoes 

of Andrea de Magistris, 

dated 1558. 


DISCOVER 

The name derives in part from 

its harmonious appearance and 

in part from its strategic position 

on the Chienti Valley. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: virgin 

olive oil, red wine Vernaccia 

d.o.c., traditional sausages, 

cheese, bread with nuts, dry 

pastry (anise biscuits, pizza 

cakes, ciambelle - ring-shaped 

pastries), homemade pasta (tagliatelle 

and the famous “vincisgrassi”). 


In Belforte you can find a municipal 

indoor Bocce rink centre, 

a tennis court, a baseball 

ground, a municipal sports 

ground and a gym. 


Nearby you can enjoy numerous 

natural-environmental 

trips, either on foot or by 

mountain bike, in the paths or 

woods of the territory of the 

Monti Azzurri Mountain Community 

(Comunità Montana 

dei Monti Azzurri) . 


Festa del Patrono Sant’Eustachio 

(Feast of the Patron Saint, 

St. Eustachio) with traditional 

fried fish festival - May; Festa 

delle fornaci (festival of Brickyards) 

- July; Sagra della polenta 

(Polenta festival) - August; 

Festa a Villa Case e a Villa 

Pianignoli (Festivals in Villa 

Casa and Villa Pianignoli) - 

September; Festival dell’acquaticcio 

(Acquaticcio: fermentation 

of must and water) in 

Borgo S. Maria - last Sunday in 

September. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 


FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

51





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.520 225 

+39 0737.520265 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.comune.bolognola.mc.it 

comune@bolognola.sinp.net 


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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The first written document, certifying 

the existence of the village and 

of its name, is the Bull of Pope Celestine 

III of 1192. In Roman times 

the territory of Bolognola was an 

integral part of the Civitas camerinese. 

During the municipal period 

it was subjected to the Da Varano 

family from Camerino. With the 

Napoleonic invasion it was finally 

assigned to the Musone District, 

which had Pieve Torina as capital. 


Bolognola consists of three settlements 

(Villas), set up by three famous 

noble Ghibelline families expelled 

from Bologna in the 13 th 

century: Bentivoglio, Pepoli and 

Malvezzi; the three units, composing 

the municipality, were named 

after the three families, but they are 

also called, Villa da Piedi, Villa di 

Mezzo and Villa da Capo, respectively. 

In Villa da Piedi you can find 

the Church of St. Nicolò, containing 

an organ of the 18 th century, the 

Palazzo Primavera of the 17 th century, 

with frescoes, dating from 

that time, ruins of the Church of St. 

Maria a Piè del Sasso and the old 

Mill. In Villa di Mezzo is preserved 

a Rosary Madonna, painted by 

Giulio Vergari Amandola in 1519; 

of great interest are also the remains 

of the Da Varano Castle, 

with walls and keeps, dated back to 

the 13 th century, and the Town Hall. 

In Villa da Capo you can see the 

Church of St. Maria delle Grazie 

with Baroque frescoes of the 15 th 

century and an organ of the 18 th 

century. From the Edicola Cruciani, 

a shrine, dating from the half 

BOLOGNOLA 

of the 15 th century, comes an important 

fresco representing the 

Madonna with Child and Saints, 

attributed to Girolamo di Giovanni 

from Camerino and now preserved 

at the Picture Gallery in Camerino. 


DISCOVER 

There are several hypothesis regarding 

the origin of the name: according 

to some opinions the term 

derives from the adjective bonus in 

relation to waters good quality, 

land fertility and pastures richness, 

according to others it derives from 

Bona, an Umbro-Celtic divinity. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: cheese, salami, 

honey, cakes and fruits of the 

forest and undergrowth (mushrooms, 

chestnuts, strawberries, 

raspberries, blackberries, and so 

on). 


Bolognola offers many opportunities 

for sport lovers: ski practisers 

can enjoy its seven lifts, furthermore, 

you can hike, go on mountain 

bike, play soccer, tennis, Bocce 

and enjoy walking or horse 

trekking excursions up to 2000m in 

height. 


Bolognola is the highest town in 

the Marche and its territory belongs 

the of Camerino Mountain 

Community (Comunità Montana 

di Camerino) and its municipal territory 

is totally included in the 

Sibillini Mountains National Park. 

URBINO 

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BOLOGNOLA 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

There are numerous floristic presences 

of high naturalistic interest: 

the gentian, the pearl oysters and 

various kinds of orchids. You can 

enjoy wonderful walks along the 

following natural itineraries: Valle 

dell’Acquasanta, Fonte dell’Aquila, 

Valle del Fargno, Pizzo 

tre Vescovi, Fonte dell’Efre, Fonte 

delle Bassette, Macchia Tonda, 

Sentiero Pineta per la Maddalena. 


Sagra dell’antico sapore di montagna 

(Festival of mountain ancient 

flavours) - July; Feste triennali 

del Patrono (Triennal Patron 

Festivals) - July and August; Festa 

della frittella (Fritters Festival) - 

August; Festa dei fagioli con le 

cotiche (Festival of beans with 

pork rinds) - August; Corsa del 

palio delle Tre Ville (Palio of the 

three villas) - August; Mostra antiquaria 

(Antiques exhibition) - August; 

Mostra fotografica e gruppo 

corale di montagna (Photographic 

Show and Mountain choral group) 

- August.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.905529 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 

www.comune.caldarola.mc.it 

comune@caldarola.sinp.net 

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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Since the 9 th century Caldarola 

has belonged to the Abbey of 

St.Clemente in Casauria; it 

joined Camerino in 1240. After 

various and long war events, it 

finally returned to the Popedom 

in 1545. In 1799 the pontifical 

domain was overthrown by the 

French Revolution. After 

Napoleon, the village came 

back to the Church government 

till 1861, when the region 

Marche was annexed to Italian 

Kingdom. 


It is a centre of great historical 

and artistic interest, famous for 

the presence of important and 

significant traces of a remote 

past in the outskirts. The key 

feature of the village is the 

Casle of Counts Pallotta, 

which dominates the village 

from the top of the Cuculo Hill. 

The Palace of Cardinal Evangelista 

Pallotta (16 th century), 

today’s Town Hall, houses the 

beautiful Stanza del Paradiso, 

full of frescoes, and the Municipal 

Painting Gallery. In the 

basement of the palace you can 

also visit the Museum of Esoterism 

and the Resistance Museum. 

The Castle Vestignano 

(9 th - 10 th centuries) preserves 

works of De Magistris and Nobile 

da Lucca. The Sanctuary of 

Maria SS. del Monte, dating 

from the half of the 18 th century, 

contains a painting representing 

the Madonna with 

Child among Saints and 

clients. The significant Munici- 

CALDAROLA 

pal Theatre dates 1830. Worth 

visiting is also the medieval 

Castle Pievefavera. 


DISCOVER 

Caldarola owes probably its 

name to the Latin word Calidarium, 

which indicated the 

room with warm water pool in 

thermal baths; the area was 

probably been rich in sulphur 

waters. 

WORTH TASTING 


olive oil “Coroncina”, vincotto 

(literally cooked wine), traditional 

salami and sausages variety 

(ciauscolo, pork neck salami, 

salsiccia, ham), cheese, 

pastries with anise biscuits, 

Christmas and Easter pizzas, 

ring-shaped cakes, honey, truffles, 

pasta. 



are available: a tennis court, an 

indoor Boules (Bocce) rink 

centre, a multi-purpose ground 

and a municipal sports ground. 


Caldarola belongs to the district 

of the Monti Azzurri 

Mountain Community (Comunità 

Montana dei Monti Azzurri). 

Within the town walls is a 

park with century-old trees, including 

a pine tree, planted on 

the occasion of the visit of 

Clement VIII. You can easily 

reach the lake Caccamo (2,8 

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km), characteristic area downhill 

the Sibillini Mountains, 

suitable for swimming and canoeing. 

You can also enjoy historical-naturalistic 

excursions 

in the wonderful territory of the 

Comunità Montana dei Monti 

Azzurri, for example you can 

visit the castles of Vestignano, 

Pievefavera, Croce di Pievefavera, 

Valcimarra. 


Via Crucis - Good Friday; 

Festa Calendimaggio - May; 

Giro cicloturistico “Gran Fondo 

dei Sibillini” (Bicycle tour) - 

July; Giostra de“Le Castella” 

historical revival show - first 

week of August; Presepe 

vivente (Staging of the nativity) 

- 26 th and 29 th December. 

53


CAMPOROTONDO DI FIASTRONE 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.907153 

+39 0733.907359 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 

www.comune. 

camporotondodifiastrone.mc.it 

comune@camporotondo.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

During the last period of the 

Western Roman Empire, Camporotondo 

was a legally independent 

agricultural centre. After 

the fall of the Empire in 

1147, in the early Middle Ages, 

it was turned into a Castrum 

(small town surrounded by 

walls) and into a stronghold for 

the defence of San Ginesio by 

the Da Varano family. The special 

autonomy enjoyed by 

Camporotondo is confirmed by 

its statutes, dated 1322-1366, 

which are considered among 

the oldest ones of central Italy. 

In the 16 th century Camporotondo 

was annexed to the 

Church States, however it 

maintained its own statutes and 

privileges. 


Worth visiting are the restored 

ancient castle walls and the 14 th 

century “Portarella”, the medieval 

town gate. In the Church 

of St. Marco you can see a 

Rosary Madonna with Saints of 

the 16 th century, a Madonna 

with Child and Saints of the 

17 th century and the Trinity and 

Saints, dating from the 17 th 

century. Interesting is the Convent 

of Colfano, where you can 

find, among other works, a 

Madonna Enthroned with 

Saints (1490) and a Crucifixion 

with Virgin and Saints by Nobile 

da Lucca. The Church of 

St. Maria di Garufo preserves 

an important fresco representing 

the Madonna Enthroned 

with Child, dating from the 15 th 

century, attributed to Paolo da 

Visso. The Town Hall has been 

recently restored. 


DISCOVER 

The name Camporotondo 

seems to derive from the name 

of a medieval landlord or, according 

to a more likely option 

the name recalls the circular 

shape of the village. The specification 

of “Fiastrone”, referring 

to the stream that runs 

across the town, was added in 

1863. 

WORTH TASTING 


olive oil, vincotto (literally 

cooked wine), wine Rosso Piceno 

doc., salami, cheese, pasta 

(tagliatelle, cappelletti and 

the famous “vincisgrassi”), 

lamb, Christmas and Easter 

pizzas, fruits of the forest. 



are available: a soccer field and 

a multi-purpose gym (where 

you can play tennis, volleyball 

and football). 


Camporotondo belongs to the 

district of the Monti Azzurri 


Montana dei Monti Azzurri). 

From the town walls, towards 

north-west, you can enjoy 

a wonderful panorama 

from the Fiastrone Valley with 

its unique and beautiful land- 

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scape. The town is of great naturalistic 

interest; hiking or 

mountain-bike lovers will enjoy 

their stay, indeed. 


Fiera di Sant’Antonio Abate 

(Fair of St. Antonio Abate) - 

January; Sagra dell’agnello e 

degustazione dei prodotti tipici 

(Lamb Festival and tasting of 

typical products) - last Sunday 

in August.


CASTELSANTANGELO SUL NERA 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.970039 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.comune. 

castelsantangelosulnera.mc.it 

comune@castelsantangelo.sinp.net 


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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The first people, who resided in 

the valley were Umbrian people 

of the civilization of Villanova. 

In the 12 th century the territory 

of Castelsantangelo sul Nera 

was included among the possessions 

of the Lord of the Castle of 

Norcia and in 1255 it was given 

to the most important Lord of 

Visso. Castelsantangelo became 

one of the five “Guaite” of Visso 

and since then, it followed its 

historical evolution. In 1912 it 

obtained its administrative autonomy. 


It still preserves the medieval 

walls and the original framework 

of the 15 th century. The 

Church of St. Martino, built in 

Romanesque style with its elegant 

bell tower with double 

lancet windows, is full of frescoes, 

made by the Umbrian 

School. The Church of St. Sebastiano 

dates from the 17 th century. 

The 14 th century parish 

church of St. Stefano boasts a 

Romanesque portal and contains 

a stone font of the 14 th century. 

The Monastery of St. Liberatore, 

built in the 13 th century, is surrounded 

by massive walls, that 

once delimited the castle; now it 

preserves an interesting fresco in 

the apse wall, as well as some 

paintings, made by the Umbrian 

school. Worth seeing is also the 

Porta Castello with a very 

charming massive stone portal, 

Porta Norcina with a double 

arch and Porta S. Angelo (historic 

town gates). 


DISCOVER 

The origin of the name dates 

back to the 14 th century, when 

different local people, exposed to 

the danger of plunders and incursions, 

joined together, looking 

for protection and freedom. 

From that moment they gave the 

name of Castrum Sancti Angeli 

to the big village, that they 

founded, putting it under the protection 

of the Arcangel Michele. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: emmer, 

beans, lentils, mushrooms, black 

truffles, pecorino cheese, the ciauscolo 

(soft spreadable salami), the 

so called torciglione (snakeshaped 

cake stuffed with walnuts, 

almonds and jam), tarts with blackberries 

and chestnuts jam, sweet 

fritters, sweet ravioli with ricotta, 

the so called tozzetti, ring-shaped 

cakes and Carnival Castagnole. 


The following sport facilities are 

available: a tennis court, a Bocce 

rink centre, a multi-sports centre 

and 4 ski-lifts on the Mount Prata. 

Cross-country skiing opportunities 

in the nearby tableland of Pian 

Perduto. 

WORTH DISCOVERINGCastelsantangelo 

is located near the 

source of the Nera River, the territory 

is in the Camerino Mountain 


di Camerino) and the municipal 

territory is totally included in the 

Sibillini Mountains National 

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Park, in a wooded area, sited on 

the western side of the park. It is a 

starting point for wonderful walks 

and excursions on foot, horseback 

or by mountain bike. The habitat 

of the area is characterized by unspoiled 

and lush vegetation and 

it’s very rich in water. The most 

evocative places are: Fonte del 

Lupo (1775m) close to a beautiful 

pine forest, Forca di Gualdo 

(1469m) and the tableland of Pian 

Perduto (1345m), with its unique 

landscape, indeed. 


Festa della Madonna dell’Icona 

(Feast of Madonna of the icon) - 

first Sunday in July; Rievocazione 

storica della Disfida delle 

Guaite (Historical revival representation 

of the “Disfida delle 

Guaite”) - August; Sagra dei fagioli 

con le cotiche (Festival of 

beans with pork rinds) in the hamlet 

Vallinfante - 16 th August; Sagra 

del Marrone Castellano (Festival 

of typical marron) - October/November. 

55


CESSAPALOMBO 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.907132 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.comune.cessapalombo.mc.it 

comune@cessapalombo.sinp.net 


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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

As regards the origins of Cessapalombo, 

we haven’t any certain 

sources. According to 

some documents, in the 12 th 

century it was a castle, that was 

assigned by the Cardinal Fieschi 

to the town of Camerino 

in 1240; the later history of 

Cessapalombo was strongly affected 

by Camerino’s history. 


The settlement, which rose at 

the feet of the Mount Castro, is 

very interesting from the archaeological 

point of view. A 

great number of findings, dating 

from the 4 th -3 rd centuries 

before Christ have been discovered 

in the area. Very interesting 

from the historical point 

of view is the Abbey of St. Salvatore, 

dated back to the 11 th 

century, located in the hamlet 

Monastero; in its crypt you can 

find a fresco representing the 

Madonna with Child, the Castle 

of Montalto, a mighty bulwark 

belonging to the Da Varano 

family, built in the 9 th century 

and the Church of St. 

Benedetto, which preserves a 

valuable fresco by De Magistris. 

Of particular interest are 

also the Parish Church of St. 

Andrea (known as the Madonna 

dell’Impollata), containing 

a venerable wooden group representing 

the Madonna dell’Impollata 

and the 14 th century 

Church of St. Maria Ausiliatrice, 

sited in the hamlet Villa 

di Montalto, where you can see 

the painting Mater Misericor- 

diae con cavalieri of 1468, attributed 

to Girolamo di Giovanni. 

The Fortress Col di 

Pietra of the 13 th century 

stands sheer over the Fiastrone 

Valley. 

WORTH TASTING 



cooked wine), “ciauscolo”, 

mushrooms, black truffles, 

wild boar, wild game, cheeses, 

handmade pasta, bread with 

nuts, pizza with cheese, 

Frustingo (Christmas cake), cicerchiata 

(Carnival cake) and 

Easter pizzas. 



are available: a sports ground, a 

multipurpose centre and a fitness 

centre. 


The municipality, located in the 

Fiastrone Valley, belongs to the 

territory of the Monti Azzurri 


Montana dei Monti Azzurri) 

and is included in the Sibillini 

Mountains National Park. It 

is an excellent starting point for 

several excursions on foot or 

by mountain bike, which allows 

you to enjoy a wonderful 

panorama over the Gorge of Fiastrone, 

a lush and unspoiled 

nature, and to appreciate the 

different abbeys and monasteries 

sprinkled in the valley. 

Worth remembering are the 

following routes: Gorge of Fi- 

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astrone , Grotta dei Frati, Lame 

rosse, Rocca di Col di Pietra. 

It’s possible to book guided 

tours. 


Sagra del fungo (Mushroom 

Festival) - May; Festa di San 

Filippo (Feast of St. Filippo) 

in the hamlet Colbottoni - 

June; Sagra della Pizza (Pizza 

Festival) - June/July; Sagra 

“Taverna del Castello” tasting 

of typical products in the 

hamlet Tribbio - August; Festa 

della Madonna dell’Impollata 

(Feast of Madonna dell’Impollata) 

- August, Festa della 

natività della Madonna (Feast 

of the Nativity of the Madonna) 

- September; Festeggiamenti 

(Celebrations) in the 

hamlet Monastero - September; 

Festa della Natura e dei 

Sapori del bosco (Festival of 

the nature and forest flavours) 

- October.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.508287 

+39 0733.508463 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 

www.comune.colmurano.mc.it 

comune@colmurano.sinp.net 

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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Archaeological findings, dating 

from the Palaeolithic Period, attest 

the human presence in the 

area in prehistoric times. Thereafter 

we have no further information 

about the settlement till the 

conquest by Rome. In the Middle 

Ages Colmurano became a fortified 

village, feud of the Gualtieri 

family. Later it passed under the 

rule of Tolentino, which elected 

the Priors and the Podestà; however, 

it still maintained a certain 

freedom, as the existence of the 

statutes, containing the rules that 

regulated the life of the small 

town, evidences. At the beginning 

of the 19 th century it regained 

its independence. 


The Church of SS. Annunziata, 

built between the end of the fourteenth 

century and the first half of 

the fifteenth century, is characterized 

by the brick doorway, 

decorated with floral motifs and 

by the presence of valuable majolica 

bowls on its facade. Inside 

you can find a fresco representing 

the Nativity, attributed to 

Giovanni De Magistris from Caldarola 

(1560), a wooden crucifix, 

an illuminated parchment of Paul 

V and some Baroque picture 

frames. The Church of St. Rocco, 

or della Loggia, is a small square 

chapel with segmented dome, 

built between the sixteenth and 

the seventeenth century and restored 

later. In the sacred building, 

ancient refuge of pilgrims, 

there is a fresco of a Madonna 

Enthroned and Saints, dated 

COLMURANO 

1536. The Parish Church of St. 

Donato preserves ancient tabernacles, 

interesting paintings and 

revered shrines. Some sections 

and a defensive tower are what 

remain of the castle walls, reinforced 

by ramparts. 

WORTH TASTING 



cooked wine), salami, cheese, 

homemade pasta (tagliatelle and 

“vincisgrassi”), bread with nuts, 

Frustingo (Christmas cake), “cicerchiata” 

(Carnival cake), Easter 

pizzas. 



available: a Bocce rink centre, a 

tennis court, a five-a-side football 

field, a stadium and 2 multipurpose 

fields. 


Colmurano belongs to the territory 

of the Monti Azzurri Mountain 


dei Monti Azzurri); it is located 

on the top of a hill, offering 

a wide panorama, that covers the 

surrounding hills and the chain of 

the Sibillini Mountains. Within 

the village there are several green 

areas equipped for children, such 

as Parco della Rimembranza and 

the green space dedicated “to the 

Children of the world.” There are 

lots of historical and naturalistic 

routes in the territory of the Comunità 

Montana dei Monti Azzurri, 

called “the territory of 

small charms”. 

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Fiera di Santa Croce (Fair of St. 

Croce) - first Sunday in May; Biennale 

L. C. Ventura - June; Fiesta 

Latina (Latin Fiesta) - June, 

Concerto in piazza (Concert on 

the town square) - June; “Pizzagra 

- Artistrada”- July; Raduno 

moto d’epoca (Meeting of vintage 

motorcycles) - July, ; Festa 

del Patrono San Donato (Feast of 

the Patron Saint, St. Donato) - 

August, Gara Nazionale di Karting 

(National Go-Karting race) - 

August; “Magicabula” feast of 

the Childhood - September; Castagnata 

in piazza (Chestnut festival 

on the town square) - October; 

“Marciando per i colli” National 

meeting of amateur runners 

- November; Allestimento 

presepe Francescano (Franciscan 

crib) - December; Concerto 

di Natale (Christmas Concert) - 

25 th December. 

57





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.52112 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.comune.fiastra.mc.it 

comune@fiastra.sinp.net 


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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The origins of Fiastra are remote: 

archaeological findings 

attest the presence of human 

settlements since the Neolithic 

period. Poggio, Trebbio and 

Fiegni date from the Roman 

period, according to the findings, 

discovered in San Lorenzo 

al Lago. In the Middle Ages 

numerous castles, feuds of the 

Malagotti Lords, Beato Ugolino’s 

family of origin, arose in 

the area. In the following years 

Fiastra passed under the rule of 

the King Manfredi (1259), the 

Da Varano family (1262), the 

Sforza family (1443), the Da 

Varano family (1447) and until 

it was appropriated by the 

Popedom in 1545. 


The Castle of Conti Magalotti 

(the Castrum Flastrae), whose 

origins date from the 11 th century, 

residence of the Podestà 

and of the General Council, had 

solid walls, reinforced by seven 

keeps; the inhabitants of the 

valley found refuge there during 

the invasions. The Abbey 

St. Paolo Apostolo in Fiegni, 

built in the eleventh century in 

Romanesque style with one 

nave and two aisles, preserves a 

painting representing St. Paolo’s 

Conversion, attributed to 

Baciccia. The Church of St. 

Lorenzo al Lago of the 12 th 

century preserves important 

Romanesque frescoes. The 

Sanctuary of Blessed Ugolino, 

built in the 14 th century, preserves 

in the central nave a se- 

FIASTRA 

ries of paintings representing 

Scens of the Blessed’s life, dating 

from the 16 th and 17 th centuries. 

The evocative Grotta dei 

frati (Friars’ Cave) on the left 

bank of the Fiastrone River, 

used to be a refuge for Clareni 

monks, repentant friars, who 

built there a shrine for cult. 


DISCOVER 

The Lake Fiastra is a stretch of 

water, where the tops of the 

Sibillini Mountains reflect 

themselves. It is one of the most 

evocative basins in the region 

and it is formed by the barrage 

of the Fiastrone River, a tributary 

of the Chienti River. 

WORTH TASTING 


traditional salami (including 

ciauscolo), lentils, honey, 

bread, handmade pasta (tagliatelle, 

cappelletti, vincisgrassi), 

cakes and fruits of the forest 

(mushrooms, black truffles, 

chestnuts, strawberries). 



are available: tennis court, soccer 

field, five-a-side football 

ground and a Bocce rink centre. 

The lake allows you to practice 

several sports activities, including 

fishing, swimming, canoeing 

and water skiing 


The town Fiastra is located in 

the picturesque natural setting 

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of the Camerino Mountain 


di Camerino) and it is one 

of the l8 municipalities included 

in the Sibillini Mountains 

National Park, established in 

1993. You can enjoy different 

excursions by mountain bike, 

on foot and horseback, in particular 

in the picturesque landscape 

of the Fiastrone Gorge. 

It’s possible to book excursions 

with tour park guides. 


Fiera dei SS. Pietro e Paolo 

(Fair of SS. Pietro and Paolo) - 

29 th June; Triathlon dei Monti 

Sibillini - June/July; Fuochi artificiali 

sul lago (Fireworks on 

the lake) - 9 th August; Fiera di 

San Lorenzo (Fair of St. Lorenzo) 

- 11 th August.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.644115 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.comune.fiordimonte.mc.it 

comune@fiordimonte.sinp.net 


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FARM HOLIDAYS 


CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The Municipality of Fiordimonte, 

characterized by very 

scattered settlements all over 

the territory, is sited in the upper 

valley of the Fornace River; 

its origins are pre-Roman. 

In fact, in its territory an architrave 

with Picene inscription 

has been found; now it’s kept 

in a public fountain in the 

hamlet Taro. The earliest information 

about the village, 

which has always followed 

the historical events of 

Camerino, refers to the Middle 

Ages. 

The remains of well-preserved 

medieval walls testify 

its importance. Eminent people 

of Fiordimonte, together 

with those ones of Nemi, Valle 

and Castello, forming together 

a circle, used to go to Macerata 

and Camerino. 


Worth visiting is the Church of 

St. Maria Assunta, in the hamlet 

Nemi, with 14 th century 

frescoes by Paolo da Visso and 

a painting by Boccati (15 th 

century). The Church of St. 

Antonio, in the hamlet Castello, 

contains a Crucifixion, attributed 


In the little Church of 

St. Marco, in the hamlet Alfi, 

you can see a triptych with a 

Gothic frame attributed to Nobile 

di Francesco da Lucca. 

The Church of St. Sebastiano 

(15 th century), in the hamlet 

Villanova, contains a valuable 

polychrome wooden statue. 

FIORDIMONTE 


DISCOVER 

In the territory of the municipality 

you can find the faunalhunting 

farm, which covers an 

area of about 3,000 hectares, 

where you can practice the 

hunting activity. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: vincotto 

(literally cooked wine), 

cheese, “ciauscolo”, honey, 

bread, handmade pasta (tagliatelle, 

cappelletti, vincisgrassi), 

cakes (pasta with walnuts) 

and fruits of woods and underbrush 


chestnuts, strawberries, 

and so on...) 




a tennis court. 


The Municipality of Fiordimonte 

is located within the 

beautiful territory of the 



Camerino) and some hectares 

its territory are included in the 


Park. 


Festa del Patrono San Gregorio 


St. Gregorio) - 30 th January; 

Sagra delle fave e del pecorino 

(Festival of broad beans and 

pecorino cheese) - 1 st May; 

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Fiera di Sant’Antonio (Fair of 

St. Antonio) - 13 th June; Sagra 

degli arrosticini (Sheep brochettes 

“arrosticini” Festival) - 

August. 

59





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.54122 

+39 0737.54128 


Phone: +39 0733.637245 

www.comune.fiuminata.mc.it 

comune@fiuminata.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The name derives from the 

nearby sources of the Potenza 

River. It was the feud of the Da 

Varano family from Camerino. 

With the end of the domination 

of the Da Varano family, the 

Popedom took the government 

of the territory. 


The Sanctuary of Madonna di 

Valcora, whose actual complex 

dates 1728, is situated in a very 

charming woody landscape, on 

the top of the Mount Bordaino: 

inside is the main altar, a Crucifixion 

with Madonna, St. Giovanni 

and Angels, a fresco attributed 


Worth visiting is the 14 th 

century Fortress of Spindoli, located 

in the hamlet Spindoli on 

a 650 m high spur; the Fortress 

of Laverino (or St. Lucia), built 

in 1020 by Rodolfo Monaldo 

III, belonging to the Counts of 

Nocera; the Castle of Orve, 

which dates from the 13 th century; 

the Church of the Crucifix 

of Romitella of the 14 th century, 

which preserves lots of frescoes; 

the Church of St. Maria di 

Laverino of the 14 th century 

with wonderful frescoes, dated 

1406, and a painting of the 16 th 

century representing the Virgin. 


DISCOVER 

Fiuminata is a typical mountain 

village of great interest 

from the landscape point of 

view, located in the upper Valley 

of Potenza. 

FIUMINATA 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: salami, 

cheese, potatoes, black truffles, 

mushroom and cakes like “crescia 

sfogliata” (puff pizza bread). 


It is the starting point for beautiful 

excursions on foot or by 

mountain bike on the green surrounding 

tablelands. The park 

is considered one of the best 

hang-gliding areas in Italy. The 

climbing wall, the first to be 

opened in the Marche, can boast 

60 climb ways (from the 4 th to 

the 8 th difficulty level). Moreover, 

the following sport facilities 

are available: soccer field, 

Boules (Italian Bocce) rink, 

tennis courts, five-a-side football 

field, basketball-volleyball 

grounds, hang-gliding school 

area, skating rink, indoor 

Boules rink centre, gym and a 

small lake for sport fishing. 

WORH DISCOVERING 

The natural environment is perhaps 

the greatest resource of the 

territory, as there are different 

areas of a great naturalistic and 

landscape value: Mount Gemmo 

(1250 m), Mont Pennino 

(1571 m), the meadows of “Le 

Spiante” (1100 m) and Mount 

Merennino (950 m), the ponds 

situated in Stoini, ancient 

woods, numerous mineral 

springs and the Potenza River 

with its sources. You can enjoy 

different historical-cultural excursions 

to visit the numerous 

abbeys of the area. 

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Motoraduno (Motorcycle Rally) 

- 1 st May; Mercatino d’antiquariato 

“Il passato in piazza” 

(Antiques Market “The past on 

the piazza” - each Monday of 

August; Sagra della “Crescia 

fogliata” (Festival of “Crescia 

Fogliata”) - August; Marcia 

podistica dei 4 ponti (Foot 

Race) - first Sunday in August; 

Festa del ritorno a Spindoli 

(Feast of the Coming Back to 

Spindoli) - August; Fiera di 

Ferragosto (Fair of the 15 th August), 

Corsa ciclistica “Alta 

valle del Potenza” (Cycling 

Race “Potenza Upper Valley) - 

August; Premio“ Leonida Barboni 

(“Leonida Barboni” 

Award) for cinematography 

and photography - August; 

Mostra dei funghi e delle attività 

produttive (Exhibition of 

Mushrooms and Productive 

Activities) - first week of November; 

Concerto di Natale 

(Christmas Concert) - 25 th December.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.641184 


Phone: +39 0733.637245 

www.comune.gagliole.mc.it 

comune@gagliole.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The history of Gagliole begins 

with prehistoric settlements of 

the ancient people of the Palaeolithic 

and Neolithic period, 

traces of which have been 

found in different occasions in 

the valley of Potenza and on the 

hill of Colle Marte. The territory 

experienced the influence of 

the Roman civilization, too, but 

no evidence of that time is left. 

During the Early Middle Ages, 

the so called Pieve di St. Zenone, 

today know as St. Maria 

della Pieve, arose in the valley. 

Around the 12 th century, the 

fortified Castle, initially composed 

by one tower and ring 

walls only, was built on the hill, 

which Gagliole occupies nowadays. 

In the 13 th century Gentile 

Da Varano arranged the enlargement 

of the castle, with the 

addiction of walls, gates and 

keeps towers and the building 

of a fortress in the highest point. 

Today the fortress is one of the 

most important evidences of 

the medieval military architecture 

of the Marche. The village 

preserves its original medieval 

town structure with the castle 

and the walls. 


The Castle of Gagliole was 

built by the Da Varano family 

in the 14 th century; interesting 

are its ring walls with mighty 

keeps to the west and the gate to 

the south. The parish Church of 

St. Michele Arcangelo, recently 

restored, has a beautiful brick 

portal and preserves a wooden 

GAGLIOLE 

polychrome statue of St. Sebastiano 

(16 th century). The 

Church of St. Giuseppe of the 

16 th century preserves a polychrome 

wooden crucifix of the 

16 th century and a fresco with a 

A. De Magistris’ Nativity of 

1530. About 3km away from 

here, you can find the hermit’s 

Church of St. Maria delle Macchie, 

dating from the 11 th and 

12 th centuries with annexed 

Convent and small cloister with 

brick columns; worth remembering 

are the brick decorations 

and numerous paintings, including 

two Madonna by 

Lorenzo Salimbeni. The original 

painting of the Madonna 

della Macchie is preserved in 

the Church of St. Lorenzo in 

Torreto. The Church of St. 

Maria della Pieve, important 

Romanesque building, preserves 

an interesting fresco of 

the 16 th century, representing a 

Madonna with Child. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: honey, 

bread, handmade pasta (“tagliatelle” 

and “vincisgrassi”), the 

wine Verdicchio doc, traditional 

sausages, among which is the 

famous ciauscolo, cakes (crescia, 

Frustingo, Easter ringshaped 

cakes). 



available: multi-purpose sports 

ground, tennis courts, Buoles 

(Italian Bocce) rinks and cycle 

paths for mountain biking. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

GAGLIOLE 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 


The ancient Castle of Gagliole 

is the starting point for different 

excursions: you can go up to 

Prati (1000m above the sea level), 

a big green land of great naturalistic 

interest with a wonderful 

panorama. Hike to the wild 

Valley dell’Elce, a natural area 

covered by oak forests, to visit 

the Grotta dell’Elce e del Sasso 

Pozzo, or appreciate the karst 

intermittent springs. 


Pellegrinaggio alla Madonna 

delle Macchie (Pilgrimage to 

the Madonna delle Macchie) - 

night of 30 th April; Torneo di 

calcio a cinque (Five-a-side 

football tournament) - July; 

Rassegna del Teatro Dialettale 

(Dialect Theater Show) - August; 

Serata “Blues festival” 

(Blues Festival) - August; Manifestazioni 

ricreative e culturali 

(Recreative and cultural 

Events) - Summer. 

61





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.668122 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 

www.comune.gualdo.mc.it 

comune@gualdo.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The village of Gualdo was built 

after the destruction of Urbisaglia 

and Falerone, when the 

Lords of these towns took 

refuge in the nearby mountains 

and began to build their castles 

in higher places to escape the 

massacre of barbarians. The 

name Gualdo comes from the 

Longobard word Wald, meaning 

forest, being the area actually 

covered by thick forests. 

The Castle of Gualdo was the 

stronghold of the ancient and 

powerful dynasty of Brunforte, 

who acquired it by the Bonifazi 

family, declining noble dynasty 

from Monte San Martino, 

who had sold it to Fermo in 

1319. 

There was a long period of conflict 

between Gualdo and San 

Ginesio because of border 

problems, but in 1484, thanks 

to the intervention of Pope Sisto 

IV, the two municipalities 

achieved an agreement setting 

the boundaries along the Salino 

River. The importance of the 

Castle of Gualdo was also determined 

by the fact that the 

border between the dioceses of 

Camerino and Fermo went 

across its territory. 


In the neoclassical parish 

Church of St. Savino (14 th century) 

there are several important 

works, among which we 

have to remember numerous 

paintings and a stone relief of 

the 17 th century. At the ground 

floor of the “Romolo Murri” 

GUALDO 

Library-House, built in the 20 th 

century, are the library and the 

archives of this illustrious man. 

The Church of Madonna delle 

Grazie (12 th century) boasts a 

facade with a beautiful sandstone 

portico and preserves an 

interesting fresco of the 15 th 

century. The Franciscan Convent 

(16 th century) contains a 

wonderful cloister, made up of 

twelve big arches with a central 

well. 

WORTH TASTING 


olive oil, mushrooms, vincotto 

(literally cooked wine), “ciauscolo”, 

cheese (pecorino 

cheese), handmade pasta (tagliatelle, 

vincisgrassi, cappelletti), 

cakes (bread with nuts 

and Easter ring-shaped cakes). 



are available: a multi-purpose 

indoor centre, a tennis court, a 

sports field and a skating rink 


Gualdo is included in the 

charming territory of the Monti 

Azzurri Mountain Community 

(Comunità Montana dei Monti 

Azzurri), characterized by an 

unspoiled nature and by the 

vestiges of a glorious past. 

Within the village there is a 

park with a great variety of 

plants and flowers. You can enjoy 

different historical-cultural 

and naturalistic trips on foot, by 

mountain bike or on horseback. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

GUALDO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 


Mostra mercato dei formaggi 

d’Italia (Exhibition and Market 

of Italian Cheese) - May; 

Festa del Patrono San Savino 

(Feast of the Patron Saint, St. 

Savino) - August.


MONTE CAVALLO 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.519618 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 

www.comune.montecavallo.mc.it 

comune@montecavallo.sinp.net 

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FARM HOLIDAYS 


CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Monte Cavallo is located at 

the entrance of a gorge, between 

two rock faces. In the 

Middle Ages it was part of the 

feud of the Dukes Baschi, a 

Ghibelline family from Orvieto. 

Later it passed to the Da 

Varano famiy from Camerino 

and then to the Popedom. 


The Church of St. Benedetto 

in Valle preserves parts of the 

original Benedictine structure. 

The Church of St. Niccolò 

in Valcadara contains 

frescoes representing the Annunciation, 

the Crucifixion 

and the Resurrection, attributed 

to Paolo da Visso. The 

Church of Cerreto contains a 

Crucifixion and a Madonna 

by Andrea De Magistris. 

Worth visiting is the Church 

of St. Maria Assunta, which 

preserves a gilded-copper 

Cross of the 16 th century and 

some paintings. 


DISCOVER 

Through the streets of the village 

you will easily meet older 

people, willing to tell you 

fantastic stories, ancient legends, 

where the sacred and 

the profane are mixed together. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: mushrooms, 

black truffles, “ciauscolo”, 

cheese, honey, lentils 

and potatoes. 



are available: a five-a-side 

football field and cycle paths 

for mountain biking. 


The territory of Monte Cavallo 

is situated within the Camerino 


Montana di Camerino) 

and it’s included in the Torricchio 

Mountain Natural Reserve, 

established in 1977. The 

reserve covers 371 hectares, 

and since its establishment it 

has been included in the WWF 

Oasis National System. It is a 

very interesting area from the 

naturalistic and faunal point of 

view: the wooded areas are 

characterized by beeches, 

oaks, holm-oaks and black 

hornbeams; the fauna includes 

wild cats, foxes, badgers, 

beech-martens, weasels, 

squirrels and hares. The bird 

population is characterized by 

the partridge and the Greek 

partridge. It is a starting point 

for wonderful naturalistic 

trips on foot, horseback or by 

mountain bike. In particular 

periods of the year you can 

gather different fruits of the 

forest and undergrowth like 

mushrooms, truffles, chestnuts, 

strawberries, blueberries, 

and so on... 


Sagra del Castrato e dei prodotti 

della Montagna (Festival 

of Mutton and Mountain Prod- 

URBINO 

PESARO 

MONTE CAVALLO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

ucts) - July; Feste triennali in 

onore della Madonna della 

Valle (Triennial Feasts In honor 

of the Madonna Della 

Valle) - August. 

63


MONTE SAN MARTINO 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.660107 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 

www.comune. 

montesanmartino.mc.it 

comune@ 

montesanmartino.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Monte San Martino originated 

in the Roman times, as evidenced 

by the great number of 

archaeological findings, such 

as coins, vases, weapons and 

tombs. It became a Free Municipality 

around 1240, and it 

was strongly influenced by the 

the noble Bonifazi family. Later 

it expanded its territory buying 

the neighbouring castles, 

like Scheggia; this fact caused 

a long conflict with Amandola, 

which aspired to the possession 

of the same places. Around the 

half of the 14 th century it was 

submitted to the Signoria of the 

Da Varano family; afterwards it 

was included in the Church 

Territories. 


Some sections of walls, reinforced 

by square base towers, 

and the remains of a stone door 

with a beautiful well-preserved 

brick decoration, typical of the 

Marche, are the only traces left 

of the fortified medieval Castle 

(13 th - 14 th centuries). Worth 

remembering is the interesting 

Church of St. Martino, containing 

some polyptyches of 

extraordinary importance; two 

of them are attributed to Vittore 

Crivelli, one to Carlo and Vittore 

Crivelli, and another one 

(coming from the Church of St. 

Maria del Pozzo) is a triptych, 

dated 1473 and created by 

Girolamo di Giovanni, one of 

the main leading exponents of 

the school of Camerino. Worth 

seeing are the Church of St. 

Maria delle Grazie, which preserves 

remarkable frescoes, 

the Church of St. Maria del 

Pozzo, where you can see important 

paintings and the Town 

Hall, preserving a small copper 

painting representing the 

Crucifixion. Worth remembering 

are the Municipal Theatre 

and the Picture Gallery 

“Monsignor Armindo Ricci”, 

preserved in Palazzo Armando 

Ricci. 


DISCOVER 

The name refers to the cult of 

St. Martino, introduced by 

Franks, who had their headquarters 

the village during the 

barbarian invasions, changing 

its name from Arx Rubetana 

Romanorum to Monte San 

Martino. 

WORTH TASTING 


olive oil, Vincotto (literally 

cooked wine), ciauscolo, honey, 

chestnuts, cheese, handmade 

pasta (tagliatelle, cappelletti 

and the famous vincisgrassi), 

Spumetto (cake made up of 

egg white, sugar and toasted almonds). 




sports field and a tennis court. 


Monte San Martino belongs to 

the territory of the Monti Az- 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

MONTE SAN MARTINO 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

zurri Mountain Community 

(Comunità Montana dei Monti 

Azzurri). It is a centre of remarkable 

landscape and environmental 

interest, as it rises in 

a beautiful panoramic position 

on a hill falling sheer to the Tenna 

Valley. Here you can enjoy 

interesting historical-cultural 

and naturalistic tours on foot, 

by mountain bike or on horseback. 


Festa del S.S. Crocifisso (Feast 

of the Holy Crucifix) - first Sunday 

in August; Festa del Patrono 

San Martino Vescovo 


Martino Bishop) - 11 th November.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.646135 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 

www.comune.muccia.mc.it 

comune@muccia.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Muccia originated in the Neolithic 

period, as evidenced by 

the great number of archaeological 

findings, now preserved 

in the National Archaeological 

Museum of the Marche in Ancona. 

In the Middle Ages it belonged 

to Camerino and since 

the 15 th century it owned an important 

fortified mill, from 

which the local people earned 

their livelihood. 


Worth visiting are the Church 

of Madonna dei Da Varano of 

the 16 th century with its special 

octagonal shape, containing 

valuable A. De Magistris’ 

works. The Sanctuary of 

Blessed Rizzerio, largely rebuilt, 

preserves the remains of 

the confessor of St. Francesco 

of Assisi: the Hermitage is destination 

of pilgrimages and visits. 

The Sanctuary of Madonna 

di Col de’Venti contains a beautiful 

15 th century painting representing 

the Virgin with Child. 

The Torre di Massa, in the 

hamlet Massaprefoglio, was 

built in the 13 th century by the 

Dukes Da Varano, Lords of 

Camerino. The Villa “La Maddalena”, 

surrounded by a park, 

was built in the 17 th century. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: mushrooms, 

black truffles, trout, 

ciauscolo, honey, handmade 

pasta (“tagliatelle” and “vincisgrassi”), 

cakes (bread with 

nuts, biscuits and Easter piz- 

MUCCIA 

zas) the excellent Amaro Sibilla 

(liquor made up of herbs and 

roots, coming from the Sibillini 

Mountains) and the famous 

Mistrà Varnello (anise liquor). 



are available: a sports centre 

with swimming pool, a tennis 

court, a five-a-side football 

ground and a multi-purpose 

sport centre. 


The territory Muccia is part of 

the natural and wonderful area 

of the Camerino Mountain 


di Camerino), area of naturalistic-environmentalinterest 

with beautiful landscapes. 

You can enjoy different excursions, 

either on foot or by 

mountain bike across paths and 

woods. 


Festa del Patrono San Biagio 


Biagio) - 3 rd February; Sagra 

delle Tagliatelle fatte a mano 

(Festival of handmade Tagliatelle) 

- July; Fiera della Maddalena 

(Fair of Maddalena) - 

July; Sagra della Trota (Trout 

Festival) - first Sunday in August; 

Festa sui prati (Festival 

on the grass) in the hamlet 

Maddalena - August/September. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

MUCCIA 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

65


PENNA SAN GIOVANNI 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.699003 

+39 0733.669119 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 

www.comune. 

pennasangiovanni.mc.it 

comune@ 

pennasangiovanni.sinp.net 

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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The name Penna probably comes 

from the Celtic etymology of 

“place, located on high hill, 

mountain or fortress “; in the 12 th 

century the village was either 

called Castel della Penna or 

Castello del Monte di San Giovanni. 

Considering the evidences 

found on this place, the 

origins probably date from the 1 st 

and 2 nd centuries before Christ, 

being a district of the Roman 

colony Faleria. In the Middle 

Ages the village was fortified and 

became the residence of local 

Lords. During Manfredi’s occupation 

in 1259, the inhabitants 

rose up and destroyed the fortress 

on the top of the mountain. At the 

half of the 13 th century the 

fortress was rebuilt by the Da 

Varano family, who had taken 

possession of the village on behalf 

of the Cardinal Albornoz. 

From the half of the 15 th century 

it was conquered and kept by 

Francesco Sforza together with 

other nearby castles during two 

decades, until it passed under the 

rule of the Popedom. 


Interesting are the remains of the 

ancient ring walls, with the Porta 

Marina and Portarella (two 

original town gates), located 

within the village; on its vault 

you can see traces of a 18 th century 

fresco. Worth remembering 

are the Church of St. Giovanni 

Battista, dated 1251-1256, restored 

in 1501 and renovated in 

Baroque style in 1736. The 

Church of St. Francesco (15 th 

century) preserves its original 

portal and terracotta floor; remarkable 

is the adjacent ancient 

convent with the cloister and the 

portico. In the Town Hall you can 

find some remains of the Roman 

times and an interesting triptych 

representing the Madonna 

among St. Rocco, St. Sebastiano, 

St. Apollonia and St. Giovanni, 

attributed to Crivelli. The Church 

of St. Biagio, dated back to the 

11 th century, contains a statue of 

the Saint. The Church of St. 

Giuseppe of 1587 is adorned 

with a big stucco rosette and includes 

a high bell tower. The 

Church of St. Filomena (13 th 

century), built in a single aisle, 

contains lots of paintings. The 

historic Municipal Theatre 

“Flora”, built in 1780, can boast 

a sandstone portal and frescoes 

by Antonio Liozzi. The Fortress 

is an ancient sighting-tower, now 

in state of ruin. Worth visiting is 

the Municipal Picture Gallery of 

Contemporary Art. 


DISCOVER 

A few kilometres away from the 

village you can find the picturesque 

hamlet of Villa Saline. It 

extends up to the sources of the 

Salino River, from which healthy 

mineral salt-iodic-bromine-sulphur 

natural waters well, the natural 

healing properties of which 

were discovered in 1876. 

WORTH TASTING 



URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

PENNA SAN GIOVANNI FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

cooked wine), “ciauscolo”, honey, 

cheese, handmade pasta. 



are available: a multipurpose 

ground, a Bocce rink centre and 

a multi-purpose sports field 


Penna San Giovanni belongs to 

the Monti Azzurri Mountain 


dei Monti Azzurri), a territory 

rich in history, culture and natural 

beauties. Worth remembering are 

the beautiful Park of Villa Salina, 

with its lush aquatic vegetations 

of natural ponds, and the Park del 

Monte, located on a high and 

panoramic point. 

You can enjoy historical-cultural 

and naturalistic trips on foot, by 

mountain bike or on horseback 


Sfilata dei carri allegorici (Carnival 

carts parade) - Sunday before 

Carnival Tuesday in February; 

Giornata della terza età (Old Age 

Day) - July; Concerto lirico-vocale 

(Lyric-vocal concert) - August, 

Sagra della polenta sulla 

“spianatora” (Festival of the Polenta 

on the “board”) - August; 

Tombola di Ferragosto, (15 th August 

Bingo); Festa del Patrono S. 

Giovanni Battista (Feast of the 

Patron Saint, St. Giovanni Battista) 

- 24 th June and 29 th August; 

Sagra “La Castagnata (Chestnut 

Festival) - last Sunday in October, 

Concerto di Natale (Christmas 

Concert) - December.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.51202 

+39 0737.518022 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 

www.comune.pievetorina.mc.it 

comune@pievetorina.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The territory has always been a 

land of passage for Proto-Italian 

people going from the Umbrian 

valleys to the Adriatic 

plains, as well as nomadic peoples, 

Etruscans, Romans, Longobards, 

Benedictine monks, 

Franciscans and Pilgrims of 

every period, going to Loreto 

and Assisi. Already Umbrian 

territory under the control of 

the Church of Spoleto till 1587, 

it was later affected by the historical 

events of Camerino. 


In the town square you can find 

the Romanesque parish Church 

of St. Maria with a polygonal 

apse and a bell tower of the 14 th 

century: inside you can see a 

Madonna with Child, a wooden 

group of the end of 15 th century; 

a painting of 1541 by Giovanni 

Andrea De Magistris and 

different frescoes, dated back 

to the 14 th and 15 th centuries. 

Nearby you can visit the 

Church of St. Maria in 

Caspriano di Casavecchia, 

built in 1350, now surrounded 

by woods, amid a very interesting 

landscape. Worth visiting 

are the ruins of the Castle of 

Prefoglio and the picturesque 

Hermitage of Santi, halfway on 

the mountain, surrounded by a 

thick forest; the annexed buildings 

offers free overnight stay 

opportunity. The Church has a 

wonderful early Christian 

crypt, partly dug into the rock. 

The Picture Gallery, belonging 

to the Church of St. Giovanni, 

PIEVE TORINA 

preserves some altarpieces, 

coming from the destroyed 

churches of Pomarolo and St. 

Teodora, as well as frescoes, removed 

from the ancient parish 

Church of St. Maria Assunta. 


DISCOVER 

In the former Convent of St. 

Agostino (dated back to the 17 th 

century) you can find the 

Museo della Nostra Terra (Our 

land Museum), an ethnographic-farming 

museum founded in 

1976, where you can see different 

representations of life and 

work of the people of the upper 

country side surrounding 

Macerata, inclding faithful reproductions 

of the rooms of 

farmhouses and workshops. 

The Mill on the river, a branch 

of the museum, preserves its 

original structure, including the 

lake, the lock and the waterfalls, 

that are still functioning; 

its structure, complete in all its 

parts, recreates the moments of 

life and work of the miller. 

WORTH TASTING 


“ciauscolo”, honey, trout, 

handmade pasta (tagliatelle, 

cappelletti, vincisgrassi) and 

fruits of the forest and undergrowth 

(mushrooms, black 

truffles, chestnuts, strawberries, 

raspberries and blueberries). 



URBINO 

PESARO 

PIEVE TORINA 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

are available: a tennis court and 

a sports ground. In the River 

Chienti you can practice sport 

fishing and you can catch beautiful 

specimens of trout. 


Pieve Torina is located within 

the Camerino Mountain Community 


Camerino), amid pastureland, 

meadows and woods. It belongs 

to the Sibillini Mountains 

National Park and to the Torricchio 

Mountain Natural Reserve. 

It is the starting point for 

beautiful historical-artistic, 

cultural and naturalistic excursions 

on foot, horseback or by 

mountain bike, across the wonderful 

territory, characterized 

not only by the beauty of the 

landscape, but also by medieval 

castles, Renaissance 

buildings and ancient rural 

churches. 


Sagra “De lu porcu” (Pork 

Festival) in Casavecchia - August; 

Sagra della pecora 

(Sheep festival) - late August; 

Sagra dei gamberi di fiume 

(Crayfish Festival) - first Sunday 

in September. 

67


PIEVEBOVIGLIANA 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.44126 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 

www.comune.pievebovigliana.mc.it 

comune@pievebovigliana.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The village originated in the remote 

past: traces of settlements, 

Neolithic pottery, different 

findings dating from the 

Iron Age prove that native people 

chose the Valleys of the 

Chienti River and its tributary 

streams to settle. In particular 

the Fornace stream played an 

important role in Pievebovigliana’s 

history. 


The Church of St. Maria Assunta 

(11 th century) preserves a 

beautiful crypt in Romanesque 

style. The Church of St. Giusto 

(11 th - 12 th centuries), in the 

hamlet San Maroto, contains 

frescos of the 14 th and 15 th centuries. 

The Church of St. 

Francesco (12 th - 14 th centuries), 

in the hamlet Pontelatrave, 

can boast several frescoes 

of the 14 th , 15 th and 16 th 

centuries. The Church del 

Rosario preserves a fresco of 

the 17 th century, as well as several 

baroque wooden altars. 

The Church of St. Maria Maddalena, 

located on the mountain 

having the same name, preserves 

fragments of frescoes, 

attributed to Cola di Pietro. 

The Castle of Beldiletto was 

built in 14 th century by the 

Dukes Da Varano to control an 

important communication way. 

The museum Raffaele Campelli 

preserves different archaeological 

findings, as well as some 

paintings by Cola di Pietro and 

Venanzo da Camerino and one 

by Simone De Magistris. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: traditional 

salami, including 

“ciauscolo”, honey, handmade 

pasta (vincisgrassi and 

tagliatelle), different fruits of 

the forest and undergrowth 


chestnuts). It is the area of production 

of the famous Mistrà 

Varnelli (anise liquor) and the 

excellent Amaro Sibilla, a 

liqueur obtained from a decoction 

of herbs and roots of 

the Sibillini Mountains, 

sweetened with honey. 



are available: an indoor Bocce 

rink centre, a tennis court, a 

sports ground and a multipurpose 

gym. 


Pievebovigliana lies at the foot 

of the Fornace Valley; the territory 

is included in the 



Camerino), falling within the 


Park. The territory offers innumerable 

and different opportunities 

of excursions by 

mountain bike, on foot or 

horseback. You can choose 

among 14 itineraries. There’s 

also the possibility of booking 

your excursions with the park 

guides. 


Sagra della castagna (Chest- 

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nut Festival) - October; Concerti 

di Natale e Capodanno 

(Christmas and New Year’s 

Day Concert) - December.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.42142 


Phone: +39 0733.637245 

www.comune.pioraco.mc.it 

protocollo@pioraco.sinp.net 

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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Its origins date back to 215 

B.C.; it was originally inhabited 

by primitive peoples, at the 

Roman imperial time era it was 

provided with different temples, 

a theatre, thermal baths 

and a swimming pool. Pioraco 

experienced its most flourishing 

period in the Middle Ages 

under the Dukdom of the Da 

Varano family from Camerino, 

who boosted the manufacturing 

of paper, thanks to the rags 

trade. The village became very 

famous for its paper mills, currently 

distinguishing business 

activity. 


Worth visiting is the parish 

Church of St. Vittorino, which 

preserves the remains of the 

Saint; it was built on the ruins 

of an ancient pagan temple: inside 

you can see the traces of 

ancient frescoes and a stone 

font of 1646. The Church of St. 

Francesco, dated 1327, is characterized 

by an external polygonal 

apse in calcareous stone 

and preserves an Annunciation, 

attributed to Arcangelo di Cola, 

a painting of the Bolognese 

school representing St. Carlo 

Borromeo, and a Via Crucis by 

Mancini. The Church of SS. 

Crocifisso, in Lombard Gothic 

style, contains a valuable painting 

representing the Crucifix, 

attributed to Girolamo di Giovanni. 

The Church of Madonna 

della Grotta, originally ancient 

hermitage, preserves a wooden 

statue of the 15 th century repre- 

PIORACO 

senting the Madonna with 

Child. The parish Church of St. 

Maria delle Lacrime, in the 

hamlet Sepia, contains a valuable 

painting of Giovanni Boccato 

representing the Madonna 

Enthroned with Child, dated 

1466. Worth visiting are the rural 

Churches of St. Paolo in the 

hamlet Costa and the Church of 

Fonte Venere in the hamlet 

Seppio. Worth seeing are also 

the interesting and documented 

Paper and Watermark Museum, 

the Fossils Museum 

and the Mushrooms Museum, 

housed in the Town Hall. 


DISCOVER 

The Latin name of Pioraco was 

Prolaqueum, which means 

“near the lake”, as in the past 

the village was located near a 

lake (dried up in 1660), that the 

Potenza River, created above 

the built-up area. If you want to 

reach the village, you have to 

cross the rough and narrow 

Gorge of Pioraco, closed between 

high cliffs with steep waterfalls. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are sausages, 

including “ciauscolo”, wild 

game, mushrooms, honey, 

handmade pasta (tagliatelle 

and vincisgrassi) and cakes 

(crescia and Easter pizza). 




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gym, a sports ground, two tennis 

courts, two indoor Bocce 

rink centres and climbing walls 

on the Mount Gemmo. 


The centre of Pioraco is situated 

among three mountains: 

Mount Primo (1300 m), Mount 

Gemmo (1250 m) and Mount 

Gualdo (1065 m), and belongs 

to the Mountain Communities 

of the Upper Potenza and Esino 

Valleys (Comunità Montana 

Alte Valli del Potenza e dell’Esino), 

an area rich in vegetation 

and beautiful landscapes. 

Thanks to the particular geographical 

features, the territory 

is a suitable area for walking 

and mountain-bike excursions, 

at the discovery of the pure nature 

and of its wonderful landscapes. 


Festa del patrono San Vittorino 

(Feast of the Patron 

Saint, St. Vittorino) - 8 th June; 

Rassegna Musicarte (Musicarte 

Show) - June; Premio cinematografico 

Venanzio Biraschi 

(Venanzio Biraschi Movie 

Award) - Summer Time; Rassegna 

di teatro dialettale (Dialect 

Theatre Show)- August; 

Festa dei cartai (Paper Manufacturer 

Festival) - 14 th September; 


of the Nativity) - 6 th January. 

69


POGGIO SAN VICINO 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.619109 


Phone: +39 0733.602823 

www.comune. 

poggiosanvicino.mc.it 

comune@ 

poggiosanvicino.sinp.net 

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MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Poggio San Vicino owes its origins 

to the Romans, who built a 

fortified outpost, named Podium 

Ficanum, at the foot of the 

Mount Sitria; over the years the 

name of the place turned into 

Ficano. In the early centuries 

after the year 1000 it was part 

of the possessions of Abbey of 

Val di Castro, and passed later 

to the District of Apiro. Since 

1346 the place was subjected to 

the supervision of Smeducci, 

Lords of San Severino. It became 

a possession of the Papal 

States and, after being reunified 

to the Italian State, it was part 

of Apiro from 1929 to 1948, 

until it returned later to its administrative 

autonomy back. 


Worth visiting is the historic 

Tower of the ancient castle, recently 

restored and located on 

the highest point of Poggio. 

The parish Church of St. Maria 

Assunta, built between 1876 

and 1888, has a brick facade 

and pink gravel sides; inside 

you can see a beautiful wooden 

Crucifix of Florentine art, dated 

back to the 16 th century; a 

painting of the Madonna Enthroned 

with Saints, and a mural 

painting representing the 

Virgin Mary. In the sacristy 

you can find some paintings of 

the 17 th and 18 th centuries, together 

with different vestments. 

Worth visiting is also 

the Church of SS. Giovanni 

Evangelista and Battista, the 

exterior of which is enriched 

by a small bell tower, while the 

interior contains important 

frescoes, made by the School 

of San Severino, that the local 

tradition attributes to 

Bernardino di Mariotto. Worth 

seeing is also the rural Churches 

of St. Rocco in the hamlet 

Palace, the Church of St. Maria 

delle Nevi in the hamlet Serronchia 

and the Church of Madonna 

del Carmine in the hamlet 

Cordivino. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: honey, 

handmade pasta, wine, pecorino 

cheese, mushrooms, black 

truffles, sausages, including 

“ciauscolo”, excellent virgin 

olive oil, cakes (the ringshaped 

cake, the Easter snake, 

the so called “cavallucci”). 



are available: a tennis court, a 

soccer field, outdoor Bocce 

rinks and a paragliding school 


The village of Poggio, located 

on the ridge of the hills that surround 

the Mount San Vicino, is 

part of the San Vicino Mountain 


Montana del San Vicino), characterized 

by interesting naturalistic 

and landscape beauties. 

Worth seeing is the green area 

of the public park “La Torre”. 

The place is the starting point 

for fascinating excursions on 

foot, horseback or by mountain 

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bike through the different paths 

of the area. Worth remembering 

is that one, who allows you 

to reach the beautiful Abbey of 

Val di Castro, monastery 

founded in 1006 by St. Romualdo, 

and those ones, that 

lead to the lake of Cingoli, to 

the Abbey of Sant’ Urbano and 

Pian dell’ Elmo. 


Festa della Patrona Santa 

Caterina da Siena (Feast of the 

Patron Saint, St. Caterina) - 

April; Motoraduno interregionale 

(Interregional Motorcycle 

Rally) - between May 

and June; Festa della Birra 

(Beer Festival) - August; Gare 

di parapendio (Paragliding 

Races) - May/August; Festa 

della Madonna del Rosario 

(Feast of Madonna del Rosario) 

- October.


RIPE SAN GINESIO 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.500102 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 

www.comune.ripesanginesio.mc.it 

comune@ripesanginesio.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The first settlement appeared 

probably with Picene people; 

in the Roman age it was a vicus 

of the noble town of Urbisaglia. 

The village was fortified in the 

Middle Ages, when the Bishops 

of Camerino built there a 

feud, given to the Counts 

Prontaguerra. After this rule, it 

passed under the control of San 

Ginesio, despite the opposition 

of its inhabitants. Later the territory 

was conquered by the 

Popedom and Pope Leo X decided 

to give the castle of Ripe 

to San Ginesio. On commission 

of the same Pope the so 

called Leonina Tower was built 

to defend the territory. The later 

history of Ripe is part of the 

history of san Ginesio. 


Worth seeing is the Tower 

Leonina, built on Leo X’s commission, 

which stands at the 

centre of the historic centre. 

The Church of San Michele Arcangelo, 

built in the 14 th century, 

was formerly held by the 

Benedictine, Dominican and 

Cistercian monks. The municipal 

Picture Gallery of Contemporary 

Art includes more than 

three hundred paintings and 

sculptures. Worth remembering 

are also the remains of the 

walls of the Middle Ages and 

the Church of St. Silvestro. 

WORTH TASTING 


olive oil, “ciauscolo”, cheese, 

handmade pasta, cakes (bread 

with nuts, the so called Frustingo, 

the “cicerchiata”, Easter 

pizzas). 


A multipurpose sports centre is 

available. Sport fishing opportunities 

along the Fiastra River. 


The municipality, located on a 

hill of the Fiastra Valley, belongs 

to the Monti Azzurri 


Montana dei Monti Azzurri), 

a territory of great historical 

and artistic interest, characterized 

by pure nature and beautiful 

landscapes. 


Festa di Sant’Eurosia (Fesat 

of St. Eurosia) - May; Mostra 

“Ripe Arte” (Show “Ripe 

Arte”) - July; Sagra dei “Fumi 

Cotti” (Festival of “Fumi Cotti”) 

celebrating must cooking - 

October. 

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71


SANT’ANGELO IN PONTANO 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.661602 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 

www.comune. 

santangeloinpontano.mc.it 

comune@santangelo.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 


MOUNTAIN DEWS 

At Roman times it might have 

been a vicus or pagus of Falerio 

and a post stage on the road that 

connected the town to Rome. 

With the spread of Christianity, 

the cult of Mars, God of war, it 

was replaced by that one of the 

Archangel Michele, whose image 

appears on the municipal 

coat of arms. The first church 

dedicated to the Angel was 

probably built on a temple dedicated 

to Mars; and the village 

got the modern name of 

Sant’Angelo. The first residential 

settlement developed 

around the church. It gradually 

expanded till it reached a certain 

importance at the time of the 

Longobards. In 1245 the most 

famous citizen of Sant’Angelo 

in Pontano was born: St. Nicola 

da Tolentino, named after the 

town, where he died in 1305. 

Sant’Angelo was proclaimed 

“free Municipality” in 1263, but 

its freedom lasted only few 

years, since it passed first under 

the jurisdiction of the powerful 

Municipality of Fermo, then under 

the Da Varano family from 

Camerino, until it finally came 

back under the State of Fermo, 

joining its following history. 

With the Unification of Italy, after 

the abolition of the province 

of Fermo, the town was annexed 

to the Province of Macerata 

with Royal Decree dated 

22 nd December 1860. 


Worth visiting is the Municipal 

Theatre N. A. Angeletti and the 

Church of St. Salvatore (12 th 

century), with a crypt and a 14 th 

century bell tower. The Church 

of St. Michele Arcangelo preserves 

interesting works of art. 

The Castle was built at the end 

of the fourteenth century. The 

Civic Tower dates back to the 

14 th century; the Church of St. 

Nicola was built in the 13 th century: 

inside you can see some 

frescoes by Domenico Malpiedi, 

several important paintings 

and a beautiful wooden choir. 

Worth seeing is also the St. 

Nicola’s birth house. The rural 

Church of St. Martino and the 

Church of Madonna delle 

Pietre, located in the hamlet 

Salti, are very typical. Pleasant 

are alleys and small squares 

with typical open brickwork. 


DISCOVER 

From everywhere in the town 

you can enjoy a wonderful 

panoramic view, including the 

chain of the Sibillini Mountains 

to the west and the hills 

sloping down towards the sea 

to the east. 

WORTH TASTING 


olive oil, ciauscolo, honey, 

cheese, handmade pasta (tagliatelle, 

cappelletti and the famous 

vincisgrassi), cakes 

(Christmas and Easter pizzas 

and Carnival scroccafusi). 



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are available: an indoor Bocce 

rink centre, a soccer field and a 

tennis court. You can also practice 

sport fishing in the Tenna 

River. 


Sant’Angelo is situated on a 

hill between Ete Morto Valley 

and the Tenna valley, in a beautiful 

panoramic position; it belongs 

to the Monti Azzurri 


Montana dei Monti Azzurri), 

a territory rich in history, 

culture, art and natural beauties. 

Here you enjoy make numerous 

historical-cultural and 

naturalistic trips on foot, by 

mountain bike or on horseback. 


Concorso nazionale di poesia 

(National poetry contest) - late 

July; Spettacolo in piazza di 

arte varia (Art Show on the piazza) 

- second Sunday in August, 

Festa del Patrono San 

Nicola (Feast of the Patron 

Saint, St. Nicola) - September; 

Mostra e Fiera degli uccelli 

(Birds Show and Trade) - second 

Sunday in October; Sagra 

del Polentone (Polenta Festival) 

- second Sunday in October; 

Fiera-mercato di Santa 

Lucia (Fair of St. Lucia) - second 

Sunday in December; 

Mostra dei 100 Presepi (100 

cribs exhibition) - December/ 

January.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.45118 


Phone: +39 0733.637245 

www.comune.sefro.mc.it 

comune@sefro.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The territory has been populated 

since ancient times, but 

we have got certain mention 

of a settlement only in the 

Middle Ages. At the beginning 

of the 13 th century Sefro 

got the status of Municipality, 

developing a close relationship 

with the near Camerino; 

however, it maintained a special 

autonomy, until it passed 

later on under the rule of the 

Popedom. 


We can see numerous artistic 

evidences of the past; first of 

all the recently restored 

medieval Castle of the Dukes 

Da Varano. Worth visiting are 

also the Church of St. Maria 

Assunta, which preserves a 

Crucifix and a statue of St. 

Sebastiano of the 16 th century, 

the Church of Madonna 

dei Calcinai, the Church of 

St. Albertino and the Church 

of St. Pietro. In the hamlet 

Abolla you can find the 

Church of St. Tossano, containing 

a beautiful Crucifixion, 

painted in the 14 th 

century and a very rare Via 

Crucis in polychrome terracotta, 

dating from the 15 th 

century. Worth remembering 

is also the rural Church of St. 

Michele Arcangelo in the 

hamlet Abolla, as well as the 

Churches of St. Biagio and 

St. Paolo in the hamlet Sorti. 

Worth visiting is the Museum 

of Agricultural Tools “F. Ferretti”. 

SEFRO 

WORTH TASTING 


sausages, including 

“ciauscolo”, the renowned 

trout, wild game, cheese, 

black truffles, mushrooms, 

honey and handmade pasta. 




sports ground, a five-a-side 

football field and a skating 

rink. Trout and crayfish sport 

fishing opportunities along 

the Scarsito stream (tributary 

of Potenza) and in the small 

pond at the fork to the hamlet 

Agolla. 


Sefro is a village of remarkable 

landscape interest, with 

lush vegetation and small 

lakes, belonging to the Mountain 

Community of the Upper 

Potenza and Esino Valleys 

(Comunità Montana Alte Valli 

del Potenza e dell’Esino). In 

its territory you can find the 

Valle Scurosa Oasis, very important 

naturalistic area, characterized 

by the yellow blossoming 

of laburnum bunches, 

by the white flowers of manna 

ash, by turkey oaks, sessile 

oaks, century-old beech trees, 

hazels and maples. It is the 

starting point for numerous 

excursions on foot or by 

mountain bike along the paths 

of the Oasis della Valle 

Scurosa, of the tableland of 

Montelago and of the mounts 

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Vermenone and Linguaro. 


Festa del Benvenuto (Welcoming 

Festival) - between 

June and July; Torneo di calcetto 

(Five-a-side football 

tournment) - July; Festa della 

pizza (Pizza Festival) - July; 

Torneo di scacchi (Chess 

Tournament) - August; Sagra 

della Trota (Trout Festival) - 

15 th August; Fiera, serata 

danzante e fuochi d’artificio 

(Fair, Dancing and Fireworks) 

- August; Festa dell’arrivederci 

(Goodbye Festival) - 

end of August. 

73





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0733.908321 


Phone: +39 0733.656336 

www.comune.serrapetrona.mc.it 

comune@serrapetrona.sinp.net 

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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

SERRAPETRONA 

Its origins date back to the prehistoric 

period: Picene people at 

first, than Romans and Longobards 

resided in the territory of 

Serrapetrona. Afterwards, it 

was subjected to the Signoria of 

the Da Varano family from 

Camerino and was appropriated 

later on by the Popedom, until it 

became part of the Kingdom of 

Italy in 1861. 


The Parish Church of St. 

Francesco can boast a significant 

polyptych by Lorenzo d’Alessandro; 

on its walls you can 

see numerous fragments of frescoes 

from different eras. The 

Church of St. Lorenzo in Castel 

San Venanzo preserves a painting 

of the 15 th century representing 

Jesus on the Cross with Virgin 

and Saints Maria Maddalena 

and Giovanni. The 

Church of St. Maria delle Grazie 

in Serra is an ancient building, 

enlarged during the 16 th century, 

and it still preserves the small 

door of the 13 th century: inside 

you can find a painted niche with 

a Madonna and Saints Giovanni 

Battista and Sebastiano by 

Lorenzo d’Alessandro. Worth 

remembering are the Historical 

Archives and the Oil Museum, 

located in the old Mill of the Village; 

worth seeing are also the 

Picture Gallery of Contemporary 

Sacred Art hosted in the 

Galleria del Caburro (Caburro 

Tunnel) and the Museum dell’uomo 

(Museum of Man) in the 

old Watch-Tower. 


DISCOVER 

The territory is famous for the 

production of the Vernaccia, a 

sparkling ruby-red wine, considered 

the jewel of the oenology 

of the Marche Region. In 

1971 it obtained the Registered 

Designation of Origin (Denominazione 

di Origine Controllata; 

in 2003 it received the 

Registered and certified Designation 

of Origin (Denominazione 

di Origine controllata e 

Garantita). The Vernaccia is 

produced in two versions: “dry” 

and “sweet.” The “dry” version 

is excellent between meals, but 

also served with barbecue and 

meat; the “sweet” one is suggested 

with desserts and pastries. 

You can taste it at the temperature 

of 12-14 degrees. Uncork 

just before drinking! 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: the famous 

Vernaccia, virgin olive 

oil Coroncina, traditional 

sausages, included the 

renowned “ciauscolo”, handmade 

pasta, cakes (cookies 

with anise, cookies with almond, 

nougat, ciambelle - ringshape 

patries with Vernaccia). 



are available: indoor Buoles 

(Italian Bocce) rinks, a tennis 

court, a sports ground, a municipal 

gym, a skating rink and an 

horse-riding centre. Here you 

can practice sport fishing, water 

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skiing, canoeing and rowing on 

the beautiful Lake of Caccamo. 


Serrapetrona is located amid the 

hilly landscape of Macerata; the 

municipal territory is included 

in the Monti Azzurri Mountain 


dei Monti Azzurri), a territory 

rich in history, art and naturalistic 

beauties. The wooded 

areas are characterized by oaks, 

elm-trees, wild chestnuts, oaks 

and smoke-trees, typical plant 

that gives the Cesolone Valley 

its peculiar red hue; the plant 

was very required in the past, 

because of its utility for tanning. 

The municipality organises historical-cultural 

excursions at 

the discovery of churches and 

museums of the territory upon 

booking, as well as gourmet 

conventions, including visits of 

the wine industries, that produce 

the famous “Vernaccia”. 


Fiera dei Fiori (Fair of flowers) 

- 25 th April; Sagra della Vernaccia 

(Vernaccia Festival) - second 

weekend of August; Sagra 

de lu Scartocciu - Third weekend 

of August; Antiche armonie 

- Concerti d’organo con saluti 

in cantina (Organ concerts) - 

second Sunday in October, November 

and December.


SERRAVALLE DI CHIENTI 




Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.53121 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 

www.comune. 

serravalledelchienti.mc.it 

comune@serravalle.sinp.net 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The town originated from the 

union of three settlements, developed 

in the neighbourhood 

of the castles of Serravalle, Tufo 

and Serramula. Thanks to its 

particular position at the entrance 

to the Chienti Valley, surrounded 

by mountains and 

woods, it has always been the 

scene of military events, as well 

as trade and cultural dealings. 


Now you can see the imposing 

ruins and one of the five towers 

belonging to the charming Castle 

of the Da Varano family, 

mighty fortress built by the 

Dukes Da Varano in 1240. Interesting 

is also the Fortress of 

the Castle in Percanestro, 

which preserves the remains of 

the external walls, as well as the 

ruins of the Castle d’Elce. 

Worth visiting is the Basilica of 

St. Maria in Plestia, built on the 

ruins of a Roman temple. The 

Church of Madonna del Piano, 

built in the 15 th century, preserves 

several frescoes of the 

16 th century. The Church of St. 

Lucia, of the 13 th century, was 

built on a monastic structure; 

now you can see only the sacristy, 

that preserves some interesting 

frescoes, a Crucifixion of 

the 16 th century by Simone and 

Gianfrancesco de Magistris and 

a painting by Giovanni Andrea 

da Caldarola. The Church of 

Madonna del Sasso (15 th -16 thcentury), 

in the hamlet San 

Martino, contains a fresco 

showing the Last Judgement. 

The Camaldolese Abbey of St. 

Salvatore, in the hamlet Acquapagana, 

dating from the year 

1000, was rebuilt in Gothic 

style in the 14 th century. The 

Abbey of San Bartolomeo in 

Brogliano, with a former 

monastery belonging to it, dates 

back to the 13 th century. 

Worth seeing are the Church of 

St. Lorenzo in the hamlet Dignano, 

the Ospizio dei Pellegrini 

(13 th - 14 th century), which preserves 

a part of its facade with a 

pointed arch stone portal; the 

Botte dei Varano, important hydraulic 

work made in squared 

stone, dating from the second 

half of the 15 th century, and the 

Town Hall, built in 1960, which 

represents the only work of the 

architect P. L. Nervi in the 

Marche Region. 


DISCOVER 

Important fossils findings of animals 

have been discovered in 

the hamlets Collecurti and 

Madonna del Piano. The fossils, 

dating from to the late 

Pleistocene, consist mainly of 

big Vertebrata: ancient species 

similar to the modern hippopotamus, 

rhinoceros, elephant, 

bear, deer, bison and the 

sabre teeth tiger. The importance 

of the deposit is due to the 

simultaneous presence of fossils 

of tropical fauna and colder 

climate animals. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: potatoes, 

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lentils, emmer, chickpeas, honey, 

sausages, mushrooms, black 

truffles, handmade pasta and 

cakes (pannociato, frostenga, 

torciglione and Easter pizza). 



are available: two multi-purpose 

outdoor fields, a sports 

hall, two tennis courts. Worth 

remembering is the Rock Wall 

on the slopes of the Mount Igneo, 

suitable for climbers training. 


Here you can find two green areas 

with recreational facilities: 

the public Park Cagnolo and the 

Parco fluviale. Serravalle di 

Chienti is part of the Camerino 


Montana di Camerino), 

territory rich in naturalistic and 

landscape beauties. You can enjoy 

numerous historical-cultural 

trips in an area, sprinkled 

with monasteries, castles and 

sanctuaries. The territory offers 

naturalistic tours of great interest, 

too. In particular periods of 

the year you can go gathering 

different fruits of the wood 

(mushrooms, truffles, and so on 

...) 


Sagra dell’Acquacotta (Acquacotta 

festival) - 10 th August; 

Festa del Ritorno (Comeback 

Festival) - 15 th August; Festa 

del Geranio (Geranium Festival) 

- August. 

75





Distance 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0737.971211 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.comune.ussita.mc.it 

comune@ussita.sinp.net 


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In the past Ussita belonged to 

Visso; it was the most important 

one of the five “Guaite”. 

Later it was under the jurisdiction 

of the Signoria of the Da 

Varano family from Camerino. 

In 1380 Rodolfo De Varano 

wanted to build the castle to defend 

himself from the incursions 

of the Municipalities, located 

on the Adriatic site of the 

Sibillini Mountains. In 1913 

Ussita obtained its administrative 

autonomy. 


The Church of St. Maria Assunta 

(14 th century), in the hamlet 

Pieve, has a stone facade with a 

central rose window and an 

ogival portal, supported by two 

columns: inside you can find 

some frescoes by Paolo da Visso 

and a painting attributed to 

Camillo and Fabio Angelucci. 

The Church of St. Vincenzo 

and Anastasio, built in 1093 in 

the hamlet Casali, has a stone 

facade and a beautiful arched 

portal with denticulated arched 

lintel; the interior is embellished 

by two wooden altars of 

the 17 th century. The Church of 

St. Stefano, in the hamlet Sorbo, 

contains frescos of the 14 th 

and 15 th centuries, the Church 

of St. Andrea can boast some 

frescoes of the 15 th century. 


DISCOVER 

Ussita is an interesting tourist 

resort for summer and winter 

holidays. Frontignano, 1350m 

USSITA 

high, is an equipped ski resort. 

WORTH TASTING 


pecorino cheese, honey, 

mountain lamb and mutton, 

black truffle, summer truffle, 

mushrooms and cakes (Easter 

pizzas). 



are available: a soccer field, a 

tennis court, an ice rink, a municipal 

indoor swimming pool, 

a solarium, a mini golf course, 

a riding ground, skiing facilities 

with 6 ski lifts and 4 chair 

lifts. 


Ussita is a characteristic village, 

situated on a valley at the 

foot of the Mount Bove and in 

the middle of the Sibillini 

Mountains National Park. The 

geographical features of the 

beautiful massif of the Mount 

Bove offers climbing opportunities. 

You can enjoy naturalistic 

excursions on foot, horseback 

or by mountain bike. 

Don’t miss out a visit to the historic 

Castle on the hill Fantellino. 


Torneo delle Guaite (Guaite 

Tournament) - first week of August; 

Sagra dei prodotti tipici 

della montagna (Festival of the 

Mountain typical products) - 

August; Rassegna di canto 

popolare (Folk songs show) - 

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August; Sagra della polenta 

(Polenta Festival) - 15 th August.





Distance 


i 

Town hall: Phone: +39 0737.95421 

Tourist office: Phone: +39 0737.9239 


Phone: +39 0737.61751 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.comune.visso.mc.it 

comune@visso.sinp.net 


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Even before the foundation of 

Rome, the Vissano valley was inhabited 

by Naharci, Sabine tribes 

devoted to sheep-farming. In the 

early Middle Ages the town and its 

territory became part of the Longobard 

Dukedom of Spoleto. 

Thanks to its position, it was an 

important centre of trade and markets; 

it alternated free government 

periods with phases of appropriation 

by the Popedom, the Dukedom 

of Spoleto and the Da Varano 

family from Camerino. With the 

proclamation of the Kingdom of 

Italy in 1860, it was separated 

from Umbria and passed to the 

Marche till 1927; it came back to 

Umbria for two years and from 

1929 it became part of the Marche 

region, finally. 


The Square of Martiri Vissani is 

characterized by elegant fourteenth-sixteenth 

century palaces. 

The Collegiate Church of St. 

Maria, dating from the 12 th -14 th 

centuries, is embellished by a 

wonderful facade and preserves 

ancient frescoes, a wooden group 

of the end of the 12 th century, precious 

holy-water stoups and an important 

Cross by Nicola Guardiagrele. 

The Museum-Picture 

Gallery, hosted in the deconsecrated 

Church of St. Agostino (14 thcentury), 

preserves paintings of 

considerable interest, among 

which we have to remember some 

frescoes by Paolo da Visso and a 

Madonna with Child, St. Margherita 

and Angels by Orazio 

Gentileschi. Worth visiting are the 

Palace dei Priori of the 15 th century; 

the Church of St. Francesco of 

VISSO 

the 14 th century and the Church of 

the Monastery of St. Giacomo of 

the 16 th century. 9 km away from 

there, in a picturesque and isolated 

position amid the Apennines pasturelands, 

you can see the Sanctuary 

of Macereto, a very interesting 

building from the architectural 

point of view, built in the first half 

of the 16 th century. 


DISCOVER 

Visso is considered one of the 50 

most beautiful villages in Italy: 

this medieval small town is located 

among mountains, gorges, woods 

and rivers and it boasts noble 

palaces and churches. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: pecorino 

and ricotta, salami, like the 

renowned “ciauscolo”, honey, virgin 

olive oil, lamb and mountain 

mutton, the trout of the Nera River, 

black truffle, lentils, potatoes, 

mushrooms, cakes. 



available: a swimming pool with 

solarium, an indoor Bocce rink 

centre, a soccer field, 2 tennis 

courts and a skating rink. 


Visso is located at the confluence 

of the Ussita stream with the Nera 

River, in a flat basin on the western 

side of the Apennines; the territory 

is included in the Camerino Mountain 


di Camerino) and hosts the 

headquarters of the Sibillini Mountains 

National Park. The park was 

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established in 1993 and covers a 

site of about 70,000 hectares. It is 

the starting point for beautiful excursions 

on foot, horseback or by 

mountain bike. It’s possible to 

book excursions with the park 

guides. 


Festa del Patrono San Giovanni 

Battista (Feast of the Patron Saint, 

St. Giovanbni Battista) - 24 th June; 

Torneo delle Guaite (Guaite Tournament) 

- first week in August; 

Sagra del “Ciauscolo” (Ciauscolo 

Festival) - between July and August; 

Mostra mercato nazionale 

“Sibilla & Ovini” (National Trade 

Show “Sibilla & Ovini”) - August; 

Mercatino di antiquariato (Antiques 

Market) - each Wednesday 

of August); Sagra della “Pecora 

alla callara” (Festival of “Sheep à 

la Callara”) - week with the 15 th of 

August; Sagra della lenticchia 

(Lentils Festival) in Villa S. Antonio 

- week with the 15 th of August; 

Concorso di pittura (Painting 

Contest) - August; Festa della 

Madonna Bruna (Feast of the 

Madonna Bruna) - 8 th September. 

77

PROVINCE OF FERMO

Province of Fermo 




Distance from 

Fermo 21 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.771100 

www.provincia.ap.it/ 

Belmonte_Piceno 

com.belmonte@provincia.ap.it 

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BELMONTE PICENO 

The territory was initially inhabited 

by the Picenes, as the 

findings of the necropolis evidence. 

The Romans occupied 

the village in 268 before Christ 

and included it in the territory 

of Faleria. In the Middle Ages 

the Farfensi monks ruled over 

it and gave the village the name 

of Belmonte. The Castle of Belmonte 

was appropriated by 

Fermo in 1263 and passed under 

the Popedom together with 

it, subsequently. 


The village still preserves parts 

of the walls and keeps, dating 

from the 15 th century. The 

parish Church of SS. Salvatore, 

re-built in 18 th century, contains 

a 15 th century wooden 

sculpture representing the 

Pietà, a silver Cross of the 17 th 

century and a relic of the Holy 

Cross. The facade of the 

Church of St. Simone (10 th century), 

sited in a oak wood, was 

originally an outlook tower. 

Worth visiting are also the 

Church of Madonna delle Grazie, 

the Church of Madonna del 

Rosario and the Municipal 

Theatre. 

WORTH TASTING 

Amongst the local specialities, 

we recommend: virgin olive 

oil, traditional sausages like the 

famous ciauscolo; cheeses, 

wines like Rosso Piceno and 

Falerio doc; hand made pasta 

recipes (tagliatelle and the famous 

vincisgrassi); cakes and 

sweets (cicerchiata, pistringu, 

pizza with figs); don’t forget 

the delicious Ascoli’s stuffed 

green olives. 



are available: tennis court, fivea-side 

football ground, Boules 

(Italian Bocce) rink and a soccer 

field. 


The village lies on a hilltop between 

the Tenna Valley and Ete 

Vivo Valley: it’s a perfect departure 

point for beautiful naturalistic 

excursions, walking 

or mountain-bike itineraries 

along paths, leading to the Torricella 

Park or to the Sanctuary 

of St. Anna. 


Sagra della Polenta in piazza 

(polenta Festival held on the 

village square) - Thursday before 

Lent; Sagra della Nutella 

(Nutella Festival) - 1 st May; 

Festa della Santa Croce (Feast 

of the Holy Cross) - 2 nd and 3 rd 

May; Sagra dei Maltagliati e 

delle Pennette (Maltagliati and 

Pennette Festival) - July; Festa 

della Pizza e della Birra (Pizza 

and Beer Festival) - August; 

Sagra della Rana (Frogs Festival) 

- first Sunday in September; 

Castagnata in piazza 

(Chestnut Festival) - first Sunday 

in October. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

BELMONTE PICENO 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO





Distance from 

Fermo 19 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.932951 

+39 0734.932775 

www.provincia.ap.it/Campofilone 

com.campofilone@provincia.ap.it 

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YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Built over a previous Roman 

settlement, the village Campus 

Fullonum (dyers’ field), developed 

in the Early Middle Ages 

around the Benedictine Abbey 

of St. Bartolomeo. From 1219 

to 1342 was under the rule of 

the Bishops of Fermo, until it 

was finally appropriated by the 

Popedom. 


The Greek-cross-plan Abbey 

Church of St. Bartolomeo (19 th 

century) contains valuable 

Fontana’s frescoes; outside the 

Church are remains of the vegetable 

garden of the original 

11 th century building. The 

Church of SS. Crucifix, in the 

hamlet Santa Maria dates back 

to the 16 th century. In the 

Church of St. Patrizio you can 

see other Fontana’s frescoes. 

In the historic centre, within the 

castle walls, you can visit the 

Bell Tower (12 th century), the 

Keep of Porta Marina, Porta 

da Sole and Porta da Bora 

(original town gates). Of particular 

interest is also the 

Church of St. Maria, sited in 

the hamlet Ponte Nina. In the 

country side is a 16 th century 

fortified building, called la 

Castagna, which originally 

served as shooting lodge. 


DISCOVER 

The Municipality is famous for 

its old tradition gastronomic 

tradition: “maccheroncini”; 

historically considered a noble 

CAMPOFILONE 

recipe, maccheroncini are different 

from other hand made 

pasta recipes, as the recipe 

strictly requires that flour has to 

be worked with eggs only: 10 

eggs each kilo flour. Kneading 

requires special skill and 

strength, because the dough 

sheet must be light and porous, 

in order to be cut into very fine 

strings. Maccheroncini have to 

cook very quick and can be eaten 

in soup or with sauce, with 

or without tomato. 

WORTH TASTING 

Apart from its famous maccheroncini, 

we recommend: 

virgin olive oil, traditional 

sausages like the famous ciauscolo, 

certified wines like Rosso 

Piceno and Falerio doc, cakes 

(ciambella strozzose, frustingo, 

Christmas pastry called 

“Pizza di Natale”). 



are available: multi-purpose 

gym, a tennis court, a five-aside 

football ground and a multi-purpose 

sports field. 


The Municipality lies in a 

merging point of sea, country 

and hilly environments; in the 

village is also a public garden 

equipped with recreational facilities. 

Amid the nature of the hills of 

the Marche, Campofilone is as 

a perfect departure point for 

amazing walking and moun- 

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CAMPOFILONE 

ASCOLI PICENO 

tain-bike tours, along the paths 

leading to the pinewoods of 

Santa Maria, Valmarana, and 

Montecamauro. 


Festa della Befana (Befana - 

old lady character of the Italian 

folklore) - 6 th January; Sagra 

dei Maccheroncini (Maccheroncini 

Festival) - first 10 days 

in August; Festa del Mare (Sea 

Festival) in Ponte Nina - 14 th 

till 16 th August; Festa del Patrono 

San Bartolomeo, (Feast 

of the Patron saint, St. Bartolomeo) 

with Fair by night - 

24 th August; Babbo Natale in 

piazza (Father Christmas on the 

square) - 24 th December. 

81





Distance from 

Fermo 24 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.966131 


Francavilla_D'Ete 

com.francavilla@provincia.ap.it 

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FRANCAVILLA D’ETE 

The earliest mention of Francavilla 

d’Ete dates 1157, when 

it was a property of the Bishop 

of Fermo. When Averardo della 

Campana, Italian condottiere 

(captain of the mercenary 

troops) took over the village, 

the Municipality of Fermo 

bought it off in 1385. The later 

history of Francavilla d’Ete is 

part of the history of Fermo. 


In the historic centre it is still 

possible to see the remains of 

the walls with six Keeps and 

two Gates. Outside the town 

walls is the Church of St. Rocco 

di Montpellier, containing two 

valuable frescoes of the 16 th 

century: Nativity and Crucifixion, 

attributed to Vincenzo Pagani. 

Near the municipal gardens 

is the Parish Church of SS. 

Pietro and Paolo, designed in 

the 19 th century by Giuseppe 

Sacconi. Two wooden crosses, 

representing the Eastern Art 

tradition of the 17 th century, are 

preserved in the Church. Off 

the village you can visit the 

stunningly beautiful Rural 

Church Madonnetta, housing a 

16 th century fresco, showing a 

Madonna with Child and 

Saints, created by a local artist. 

WORTH TASTING 

Food and wine tradition, including 

for example extra virgin 

oil, vincotto (literally 

cooked wine), handmade pasta 

and cakes (frustingo), has been 

preserved up to the present. 

Pappardelle with hare meat 

ragù-sauce and vincisgrassi are 

absolutely recommended. 



are available: Boules (Italian 

Bocce) rink, soccer field and a 

multi-purpose sport ground. 


Francavilla d’Ete is a medieval 

village, sited on a hilltop, overlooking 

the Ete Morto Valley. 

The municipal garden Parco 

delle Rimembranze is right in 

the village. 

Furthermore, the territory is a 

suitable area for historical, naturalistic 

tours, including walking 

and mountain-bike itineraries 

across the Ete Morto Valley. 


Carnevale in piazza (Carnival 

on the Piazza) - Carnival Sunday; 

Festa della Madonnetta 

(Feast of the Madonnetta - 

Easter Tuesday; Festa di Santa 

Rita (Feast of Santa Rita) - end 

of April/beginnings of May; 

Festa del Patrono San Rocco 


Rocco) - 16 th August; Sagra 

“Lu Vurgu fa cantina”, when 

old inns revive - first week in 

September. 

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Distance from 

Fermo 10 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.936321 

www.provincia.ap.it/Lapedona 

com.lapedona@provincia.ap.it 

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The origin of the village dates 

around the year 1000, when 

Benedictine monks from Farfa 

and Fonte Avellana moved 

about in the surrounding country 

side and erected new 

churches and small monasteries. 

Afterwards, it became one 

of the even more than fifty Castles 

depending on Fermo, retaining 

some of its administrative 

independence, though. 


In the historic centre you will 

find remains of the Ring Walls 

(15 th century), the Porta Marina 

and the Porta da Sole 

(Town Gates). Worth a visit are 

the Town Hall (16 th century) 

containing a Simone De Magistris’ 

painting representing a 

Madonna with Child and 

Saints of 1596 and a wooden 

Crucifix, dating from the 16 th 

century, as well as the Church 

of St. Nicolò (built between the 

15 th and the 18 th century), with 

a beautiful wooden painted 

ceiling of 1764 and a Rosary 

Madonna of 1682, attributed to 

Giuseppe Ghezzi. Inside the 

walls is also the Church of St. 

Giacomo and St. Quirico, containing 

two wooden paintings 

attributed to Pietro Alemanno, 

a 15 th century polyptych representing 

a Madonna with Child 

and Saints and a polychrome 

wooden sculpture representing 

St. Quirico; of great interest is 

also the Church of St. Lorenzo, 

housing a Callido’s organ of 

1784 and a 16 th century altar. 

LAPEDONA 

Outside the castle walls you 

can find three beautiful old 

churches: the Church of SS. 

Quirico and Giuditta, the 

Church of St. Pietro and the 

Small Church of the Madonna. 

WORTH TASTING 

Amongst the specialities, we 

recommend virgin olive oil, 

salamis and sausages, handmade 

pasta (tagliatelle), vin 

cotto, cakes (pistringo, Easter 

ring cake, pizza with figs) and 

the delicious peaches of the 

Aso Valley. 




municipal gym, a soccer field 

and a multi-purpose sports 

ground in the hamlet Aso. 


The Municipality of Lapedona 

lies between the Aso Valley and 

the municipal territory of Fermo, 

about 5 km from the sea; 

the village includes the public 

garden “Parco delle Bore”. 

Historical walking tours at the 

discovery of the old narrow 

streets and picturesque squares 

of the village are recommended. 


Festa della Madonna Bruna 

(Feast of the Madonna Bruna) - 

Sunday after Easter; Festa del 

Patrono San Quirico (Feast of 

the Patron Saint, St. Quirico) - 

15 th July; Sagra degli gnocchi 

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(Gnocchi Festival) - last week 

in July; Festa del vino cotto con 

rievocazione “De lo fa’ cantina” 

(Festival of vin cotto with 

historical revival show - end of 

September; Concerto d’Autunno 

(Autumn concert) in the 

Church of St. Quirico - first 

week in October. 

83





Distance from 

Fermo 15 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.632172 


magliano_di_tenna 

com.magliano@provincia.ap.it 

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MAGLIANO DI TENNA 

In the Middle Ages Castrum 

Malleani belonged over years 

to the Abbey of Farfa. After a 

long period of disputes and attacks, 

it passed under the rule 

of Fermo and until the Unification 

of Italy, Magliano’s history 

was part of the history of Fermo. 


The parish Church of St. Gregorio 

Magno, built in the 18 th 

century over a previous Farfense 

building, still preserves 

in a chapel a fresco attributed 

to Vincenzo Pagani. Outside 

the village walls is the Church 

of Madonna delle Grazie, 

erected in the 18 th century over 

a previous shrine. The Church 

contains 16 th century valuable 

frescoes, one of them representing 

a Crucifixion. The 

Church of St. Filippo, sited in 

the hamlet San Filippo, houses 

the funeral monument of Giovan 

Battista Carducci, architect 

from Fermo, designed by 

Luigi Fontana. Of great interest 

are also the Church of Madonna 

di Loreto, remains of 

the 14 th century defence walls, 

with two Tower and the Porta 

da Bora (Northern Gate). 

WORTH TASTING 

Amongst the specialities we 

recommend: virgin olive oil, 

sausages and local hams and 

salamis, like the famous ciauscolo; 

cheeses, honey, hand 

made pasta recipes (tagliatelle 

and vincisgrassi); cakes 

(ciambellone - big ring cake, 

pistringu, pizza with figs); 

don’t forget the delicious Ascoli’s 

stuffed green olives. 




tennis court, indoor Boules 

(Italian Bocce) rinks, a municipal 

gym and a five-a-side football 

ground. 


Magliano occupies the top of a 

hill overlooking the Tenna Valley, 

about 20 km from the sea. 

In the village is an equipped 

municipal garden, called “Parco 

delle Prese”. It’s a suitable 

area for historical and naturalistic 

tours, like the walking 


along the Tenna River. 


Festa Madonna delle Grazie 

(Feast of the Madonna delle 

Grazie) - first Sunday in June; 

Sagra delle Sagre, Festival 

with typical dishes - last Saturday 

and Sunday in June; Rievocazione 

storica della trebbiatura 

(Historical threshing revival 

show) - second Sunday in July; 

Sagra del ciambellone e del vino 

cotto (Ciambellone and vino 

cotto Festival) - first Sunday in 

August; Rievocazione della 

Pasquella (folk revival of the 

Pasquella) - August and December; 

Castagnata (chestnut 

festival) in the hamlet San Filippo 

- end of October. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

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FERMO 

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Distance from 

Fermo 30 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.760127 


massa_fermana 

com.massafermana@ 

provincia.ap.it 

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MASSA FERMANA 

The earliest mention of Massa 

Fermana dates 1050, when the 

Castle was under the rule of 

the Bishops of Fermo. In the 

13 th century it was appropriated 

by the Brunforte family, but 

in 1252 it voluntary got back to 

Fermo until the Unification of 

Italy. 


The access to the historic centre 

is still nowadays through 

the Porta di Sant’Antonio, (St. 

Antonio Gate) a 14 th century 

pointed-arch gate. The Municipal 

gallery contains a great 

number of works of art, among 

which are a Vincenzo Pagani’s 

Adoration of the Child, a Simone 

De Magistris’ Resurrection 

and a Durante Nobili ‘s 

Immaculated Conception. In 

the parish Church of St. Lorenzo, 

St. Silvestro and St. Ruffino 

are preserved a famous polyptych, 

representing a Madonna 

with Child and Saints of 1468 

by Carlo Crivelli, a wooden 

painting of a Madonna of Cintola 

among playing angels 

(Madonna della Cintola tra angeli 

musicanti) by Vittore 

Crivelli and a Sebastiano 

Ghezzi’s painting. On the 

Stalio hillside is the Convent of 

St. Francesco, built in the 13 th 

century. 


DISCOVER 

Massa Fermana is famous for 

the local century-old hat manufacturing. 

Nowadays, it’s one 

of the most important centres 

for hat industry in Italy. 

WORTH TASTING 

Amongst specialities we recommend: 

mutton barbecue; 

“Caciù co’ la Fava”, puff pastry 

in ravioli-shape, stuffed 

with spiced cooked broad 

beans, fried in virgin olive oil. 




five-a-side football ground and 

a multi-purpose sports field. 


Massa Fermana lies on a hill, 

in beautiful position, overlooking 

the Sibillini Mountains 

and the hill around the 

Tenna Valley; in the village is a 

municipal play ground for 

children. 

It’s a suitable area for naturalistic 

tours, like the walking 


along the Ete Morto and Ete 

Vivo streams. 


Festa della Befana (Festival 

celebrating the Befana, old lady 

character of the Italian folklore) 

- 6 th January; Fiera “De 

lu Pirdù”, (Fair of the forgiveness) 

- 2 nd August; Festa del 

Patrono San Lorenzo (Feast of 

the patron Saint, St. Lorenzo) - 

first week in August; Castagnata 

(Chestnut Festival) - October; 


of the Nativity) - 4 th December. 

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85


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.773140 


monsampietro_morico 

com.monsampietro@ 


MONSAMPIETRO MORICO 




Distance from 

Fermo 24 km 

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The village originated around 

the year 1061, when the 

Malugero Morico, son of the 

Norman count Dragone D’Altavilla, 

founded the Castles of 

Monsampietro and Sant’Elpidio 

Morico. From the 9 th to 

the 13 th century both castles 

were annexed to the powerful 

Abbey of Farfa. In 1316 they 

passed under the rule of Fermo, 

until the Napoleonic period. 

After the Unification of Italy, 

Sant’Elpidio Morico and Monsampietro 

were incorporated 

into one Municipality. 


Of great value are the ruins of 

the Medieval castle and the 

polygonal Tower of the 14 th 

and 15 th centuries. The 18 th 

century Church of St. Francesco 

contains a painting of the 

Venetian school, dated from 

the 17 th century and an astylar 

cross of the 16 th century. In the 

Church of St. Michele Arcangelo 

(17 th century), sited in the 

hamlet S. Elpidio Morico, is a 

three-panels-polyptych of 

1496, representing a Madonna 

with Child and Saints by 

Vittore Crivelli. The Romanesque 

Church of St. Paolo 

(11 th century), National monument, 

was built over a pagan 

temple. Of great interest are 

also the parish Church of SS. 

Pietro and Antonio, built in 

17 th century, and the Church 

of the Madonna del Carmine. 

Worth visiting is also the Town 

Hall, containing some valu- 

able paintings and a 16 th century 

triptych. 

WORTH TASTING 

Amongst local specialities we 

recommend: virgin olive oil, 

traditional sausages and 

salamis, hand made past 

recipes (tagliatelle and vincisgrassi), 

honey, vincotto (literally 

cooked wine) and cakes 

(calcione, frustringo, pizza 

with figs). 



are available: multi-purpose 

sports centre, a soccer field and 

an indoor boules (Italian bocce) 

rinks centre. 


Monsampietro stands on a hilltop 

overlooking the Ete Vivo 

Valley, about 27 kilometres 

from the sea; in the village is a 

municipal playground for children. 


excursions, like the walking 

or mountain-bike itineraries 

along the Ete Vivo and Indaco 

streams. 


Festa del Patrono San Pietro 


Pietro) and Sagra della polenta 

(Polenta Festival) - last Sunday 

in June; Festa della Madonna 

del Carmine (Feast of the 

Madonna del Carmine) and 

Sagra degli gnocchi (Gnocchi 

Festival) - 16 th July; Sagra de 

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“Lo magnà de’ na ota”, discovering 

Grandmas’ recipes) - 

8 th and 9 th August; Mostra di 

Presepi (Cribs exhibitions) - 

24 th December to 6 th January.





Distance from 

Fermo 29 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.760426 


montappone 

com.motappone@provincia.ap.it 

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The village has been a property 

of the Nobili-Brunforte family 

since the Middle Ages. After a 

long period of assaults and battles, 

the Castle was destroyed 

by Gentile da Mogliano, and 

built over new by the inhabitants 

in 1371. Until the establishment 

of the Kingdom of 

Italy the history of Montappone 

is part of the history of Fermo. 


The Oratory of SS. Sacramento 

(14 th century), with a Romanesque 

brick portal, contains 

16 th century frescoes, one 

of which is a Madonna with 

Child and Saints Santi Giovanni 

Battista and Giorgio, attributed 

to Vincenzo Pagani. The 

Church of St. Maria in Castello, 


contains a valuable Pomarancio’s 

Madonna with Child. The 

parish Church of Santa Maria 

and San Giorgio was erected 

over the ruins of a previous Romanesque 

building. It houses 

an important reliquary of the 

15 th century. Of special interest 

is the Hat Museum. 


DISCOVER 

Montappone is famous for hat 

manufacturing, handicraft activity, 

started in the 16 th century. 

The modern industrial production 

is now exported all 

over the world. 

WORTH TASTING 

Amongst specialities we rec- 

MONTAPPONE 

ommend: traditional ham, 

sausages and salami variety, 

like the famous ciauscolo; 

hand made pasta recipes (tagliatelle 

and vincisgrassi); cakes 

like stuffed calcioni, Christmas 

and Easter pastries (called pizza). 




tennis court, two Boules (Italian 

Bocce) rinks and a five-aside 

football ground. 


The village of Montappone occupies 

the top of a hill, offering 

an amazing panoramic view, 

sweeping away from the 

Sibillini Mountains to the Adriatic 

Sea. It is possible to enjoy 

naturalistic tours, like the 

walking or mountain-bike itineraries 

along the Ete Vivo and 

Ete Morto streams. 


Festa della Befana (Festival 

celebrating the Befana, an old 

lady character of the Italian 

folklore) - 6 th January; Festa di 

Sant’Antonio (Feast of St. Antonio) 

- January; Festa del Patrono 

San Giorgio (Feast of the 

Patron Saint, St. Giorgio) and 

Festival of “Li Caciù co’la Fava” 

- 23 rd April; Festa della 

Pinturetta (Feast of the Pinturetta) 

- first Sunday in July; 

Festa del cappello (Hat festival) 

with revival representation 

of the strawwork - first Sunday 

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in August); Festa della Madonna 

di Gagliano (Feast of Madonna 

di Gagliano) - 13 th to 

15 th August; Festa di San Martino 

(Feast of St. Martino) - November. 

87





Distance from 

Fermo 15 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.630047 


montegiberto 

com.montegiberto@ 


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MONTE GIBERTO 

Initially inhabited by Picene 

people and Romans, the territory 

of Monte Giberto became a 

property of the Farfa Abbey, 

until it passed under the rule of 

Fermo in the 13 th century. Until 

the establishment of the Kingdom 

of Italy, the history of 

Monte Giberto is tightly connected 

with Fermo’s history. 


In the historic centre you can 

see the ruins of the 14 th century 

castle walls with four keeps 

and the pointed-arch Gate, the 

Church of St. Antonio (1742), 

the Town Hall (13 th century) 

and the parish Church of St. 

Nicolò (18 th century), containing 

numerous paintings, one of 

which represents a Last Supper 

created in 1602 by the Florence’s 

School, a 18 th century 

polychrome wood group, 

carved by Gaetano Callido in 

1797. Near the main square is 

the Church of St. Giovanni Battista, 

re-built in the 18 th century, 

showing three paintings of 

the 18 th century, different frescoes 

and a Vincenzo Paci’s organ, 

dated 1876. Outside the 

Castle walls it is possible to visit 

the Sanctuary of St. Maria 

delle Grazie, worship place 

and example of the local devotion 

to the Virgin Mary, erected 

by the Middle of the 18 th century 

to the design of the architect 

Giambattista Vassalli. Inside is 

a display of 17 th century paintings, 

a 14 th century marble 

sculpture representing a Ma- 

donna with Child, and a Angelo 

Morettini’s organ, dated 

1830. Also to be seen is the rural 

Church of St. Lucia, erected 

in the Hamlet Santa Lucia in 

the 13 th century, but restored in 


WORTH TASTING 

Amongst the local specialities 

we recommend: lu Pizzottu, 

unrefined bread with maize 

flour, raisins and dried figs; polenta 

with different sauces 

made with sausage (local salsiccia), 

fish, wild game, dried 

salt cod, pork rinds; Cacciannanze, 

rustical pizza made of 

flour, water, organic yeast and 

salt. 




sports centre and tennis courts. 


Monte Giberto lies on the top 

of a nice hill, offering an amazing 

panoramic view; it’s about 

15 km from the Adriatic Sea 

and about 40 km away from the 

Sibillini Mountains. In the village 

is a beautiful pine wood. 

The surrounding country side 

is perfect to enjoy naturalistic 

walking or mountain-bike 

tours. 


Presepe vivente (Staging of the 

Nativity) - 6 th January; La Desolata, 

historical revival representation 

- Good Friday; Con- 

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certo su organi antichi, (Old 

organ concert, to enhance the 

three historic organs, preserved 

in Montegiberto) - last Sunday 

in May; Festa de “Lo Vatte”, 

(historical revival harvesting 

and threshing representation) - 

Mid July; Sagra del vino (Wine 

Festival) - first half of August; 

Ricordando i Piceni, (Remembering 

the Picenes - banquets 

with traditional Picene recipes) 

- first week in August; Festa del 

granoturco (Maize Festival) - 

second half of August; Festa 

della Madonna delle Grazie 

(Feast of Madonna delle Grazie) 

- 6 th till 8 th August; Festa 

d’Autunno (Autumn Festival) - 

second week end in October; 

Presepe artistico all’aperto 

(Outdoor artistic crib) - from 

24 th December to 17 th January.





Distance from 

Fermo 27 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.777121 


monterinaldo 

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MONTE RINALDO 

According to the tradition the 

village was founded by a Norman 

noble man in 1061. But the 

ruins of an impressive historic 

Roman Sanctuary of the 2 nd -1 st 

centuries before Christ, discovered 

in the 50s and in 60s, 

might be evidences of the presence 

of the Roman civilization 

in the area between the 3 rd and 

the 1 st century before Christ. In 

1063 the village is mentioned 

as a property of the Bishop of 

Fermo. A few centuries later 

the village submitted voluntarily 

to Fermo. At beginnings of 

the 15 th century Monte Rinaldo 

was appropriated by Carlo 

Malatesta. 


Entry is through a 16 th century 

Gate; go ahead to the main 

square, on which is Palazzo 

Giustiniani, a splendid example 

of rococo architecture, 

boasting a beautiful 18 th century 

facade and fine decorated 

windows. The parish Church of 

SS. Sacramento and Rosario of 

the 18 th century contains two 

A. Liozzi’s altar-pieces. Don’t 

miss visiting the Curch of Soccorso, 

with very plain architecture, 

but very interesting, indeed. 


DISCOVER 

In the hamlet Cuma, sited amid 

picturesque agricultural fields, 

is the archaeological site, with 

the historic Sanctuary and ruins 

of a temple. The splendid 

external portico is composed 

by a double line of tuff Ionic 

and Doric columns, 14 of 

which still preserve pedestal. 

Antefixes, oil lamps, ex voto, 

dedicated to the goddess 

Cupra, clay statues decorating 

the temple gable, as well as 

traces of an inscription, have 

been found out during the excavations. 

WORTH TASTING 

Apart from the delicious Ascoli 

typical products, the area is famous 

for vegetables and fruits 

cultivated in the Aso Valley: 

peaches, plums, apricots, 

strawberries, pears, grapes and 

cherries, exported to the main 

European markets and used to 

make delicious jams. Chestnut 

woods provide delicious marrons. 


Adventure lovers can engage in 

unforgettable mountain-bike 

excursions; for those looking 

for relax, we recommend 

leisurely and healthy walks, instead. 


Like many other surrounding 

villages, Monte Rinaldo is a 

“belvedere”, overlooking the 

Aso Valley beneath, sited in a 

stunningly beautiful landscape. 

During walking tours and excursion, 

enjoy the peculiar skyline 

of some of the surrounding 

mountains, sculpted by erosion 

over the centuries. The near 

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Castle of Bucchiano housing 

remains of a Roman tomb is also 

worth a visit. Not far from 

Montorso is the Church of St. 

Maria, holding some frescoes, 

dating from the 16 th century. 


“Capitello d’oro”, children 

song event - forth Sunday in July; 

Sagra della bistecca di castrato 

(Mutton steak Festival) - 

second Sunday in August; 

Fiera di S. Andrea (Fair of St. 

Andrea) - 30 th November. 

89


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.656103 


monte_vidon_combatte 

MONTE VIDON COMBATTE 




Distance from 

Fermo 21 km 

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The village of Monte Vidon 

Combatte originated in the 

Middle Ages from the feudal 

Castle, that occupied the top of 

the hill. Due to its strategic position 

overlooking the Aso River, 

it has always been a contested 

territory between Fermo and 

the Farfa Abbey. The later history 

of Monte Vidon Combatte 

was strongly influenced by the 

vicissitudes of Fermo, being a 

very productive centre included 

in the country side of the 

chief town. 


In the historic centre it is possible 

to see the ruins of the original 

medieval borgo, including 

parts of the ring walls and the 

gate (15 th century) and the aristocratic 

Palazzo Pelagallo 

(14 th century). Further into the 

historic centre is the parish 

Church of St. Biagio, with 18 th 

century bell tower, housing a 

Jacopo Agnelli da Patrignone’s 

painting showing the a Madonna 

with Child. Don’t miss 

visiting the Church of St. Procolo 

(7 th - 8 th centuries), sited 

in the hamlet san Proloco, 

erected in Romanesque style 

over the ruins of a very old 

building. The Church contains 

prestigious 15 th century frescoes 

by Crivelli’s School and 

parts of a friar Marino Angeli’s 

polyptych. 


DISCOVER 

Tradition records that the earli- 

er feudal lord of the castle, 

Guidone, was coming off worst 

in the battle against Rocca 

Monte Varmine and asked his 

brother Corrado, lord of a near 

Castle, for military help, sending 

the following message 

“Corri Corrado che Guidone 

combatte” (run Corrado, 

Guidone is fighting). The two 

neighbouring villages might be 

named after this message 

Monte Vidon (from Guidone) 

Combatte and Monte Vidon 

Corrado. The village is the birth 

place of Aurelio Rossi (1898- 

1942), heroic fighter in the First 

world war, explorer in Africa 

and illustrious author. 

WORTH TASTING 

Amongst wine and food specialities 

we recommend: traditional 

salamis and sausages, 

like the famous “ciauscolo”; 

d.o.c. wines Rosso Piceno and 

Falerio, roast sucking pig 

(porchetta), fusilli in Montevidonese 

style and quail barbecue. 





a multi-purpose indoor sports 

centre. 


The village is sited on a the top 

of a hill overlooking the Aso 

valley, from which you can enjoy 

an amazing panoramic 

view, sweeping away from the 

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Gran Sasso Mountains to the 

sea. Along the Aso Valley is 

Bosco Pelagallo, a stunningly 

beautiful natural park with untouched 

pristine nature, where 

it is possible to enjoy relaxed 

walking or mountain-bike 

tours. 


Festa di Sant’Antonio (Feast of 

St. Antonio) - 17 th January; 

Festa di Sant’Antonio, (Feast 

of St. Antonio in the hamlet 

Collina Nuova) - Saturday and 

Sunday after the 17 th of January; 

Festa del Patrono San Biagio 


St. Biagio) - 3 rd February; 

Sagra della Quaglia (Quail 

Festival) - first week end in August.





Distance from 

Fermo 25 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.759348 


monte_vidon_corrado 

com.mvcorrado@provincia.ap.it 

MONTE VIDON CORRADO 

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In 1300 Monte Vidon Corrado 

submitted to Fermo and the 

Popedom, to protect itself 

against plunders carried out by 

people from the surrounding 

villages or by mercenary 

troops. In spite of that, the village 

was attacked and plundered 

by the Count of Carrara; 

afterwards it was occupied by 

Carlo Malatesta in 1413 and 

Francesco Sforza in 1433. The 

village was involved in the historical 

vicissitudes of Fermo, 

and then of the near Montegiorgio. 



see beautiful houses with terracotta 

decorations (15 th century), 

elegant aristocratic 

palaces, remains of the ring 

walls with defence keeps (14 th - 

15 th century) and the parish 

Church of St. Vito Martyr, with 

the 18 th century Neoclassical 

façade and attached convent. 

Outside the historic centre it is 

possible to visit the Church of 

Madonna del Carmine and the 

rural Church of St. Giuseppe. 


DISCOVER 

The village is the birth place of 

Osvaldo Licini, who is considered 

one of the most important 

exponent of European Abstractivism. 

After living in 

France for a while, the artist 

decided to come back to Monte 

Vidon Corrado, became town 

mayor and created most of his 

masterpieces, like Amalassuntas 

and Rebel Angels; 

The municipal administration 

laid out a study centre, dedicated 

to Osvaldo Licini, that hosts 

displays and exhibitions systematically. 

Manufacturing of straw, used 

to produce hats, has been traditionally 

practised in Monte Vidon 

Corrado since the 18 th century; 

the modern industrial 

production, including hat and 

accessories (buckles, buttons, 

an so on), plays an important 

role in the international fashion 

market. 

WORTH TASTING 

Amongst specialities we recommend: 

traditional sausages 

and salamis, vincotto (literally 

cooked wine), hand made pasta 

(tagliatelle) and cakes (calcioni 

with broad beans). 




an indoor multi-purpose sports 

centre. 


The village is sited on a hilltop 

between the lower Tenna Valley 

and the upper Ete Morto 

Valley, about 30 km away from 

the sea. Just outside the historic 

centre are two municipal public 

garden areas. We recommend a 

historical and artistic tour 

across the narrow streets of the 

old borgo, to discover its 

charming architecture. 

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Festa del Patrono San Vito 

Martire (Feast of the Patron 

Saint, St. Vito Martire) - 15 th 

June; Festa della Madonna del 

Carmine (Feast of Madonna 

del Carmine) - July; Castagnata 

in piazza (Chestnut Festival) 

- October. 

91


MONTEFALCONE APPENNINO 




Distance from 

Fermo 41 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.79120 


Phone: +39 0736.844526 

+39 0736.844379 


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Perched ontop a rocky spur 

south of Mount Falcone, the 

old village of Montefalcone 

Appennino dominates the valley 

with its unique skyline. The 

square-plan Tower, soaring in 

the highest point of the village, 

is the last trace of the medieval 

castle, erected by the Farfensi 

monks. After being a feud of 

the Farfa Abbey, it became an a 

free Municipality in 1214. In 

1212, when the dispute between 

Emperor and the Popedom 

had almost concluded, 

Fermo and Ascoli Piceno took 

over the territories and the 

properties of the Farfa Abbey 

in Santa Vittoria, including 

Montefalcone. It’s in that occasion, 

when the tower, standing 

still nowadays, was erected. 


The charming natural setting is 

further embellished by religious 

buildings like the Church 

of St. Pietro in Penne, in which 

the Gothic traits of the façade 

and the Romanesque elements 

of the bell tower match perfectly. 

Inside are a wood font and a 

cross of the 15 th century. Evidences 

of the original village 

are the Rocca and the castle 

walls, dating from the 11 th - 

13 th centuries; of great value is 

also Palazzo Felici, hosting the 

Pietro Alemanno’s Museum. 

Don’t miss visiting the Fossiles 

and natural history Museum 

“Neldo Bruni”. Leaving the 

village towards Comunanza, 

across the tunnel, created in 

1833 under the Pontifical Government, 

you will see the 15 th 

century Church of the Scalelle 

with its Renaissance portal, 

15 th century frescos and a holy 

water stoup, dated back from 

the later 16 th century. On the 

way to Smerillo is the 17 th century 

Church of St. Antonio, 

which has been recently restored. 

Just ahead is the Convent 

of the Friars Minor, also 

called Convent of St. Giovanni. 


DISCOVER 

It is possible to enjoy a naturalistic 

route around the vertiginous 

vertical spur (elevation 

over 200 metres), made of the 

typical local sandstone with 

tertiary fossiliferous strata. 

There are lots of chestnut trees 

and broad-leaved coppices. A 

pine wood, located just off the 

village, scents the air. The fauna 

in the surrounding country 

side includes jays, birds of pray 

and squirrels. According to a 

recent custom, most of the 

house fronts are painted with 

bizarre decorations. 

WORTH TASTING 

Notable variety of red wines 

and delicious cheeses. 


There are a lot of mountainbike 

tracks in different difficulty 

levels, used to train for the 

yearly marathon. A target 

shooting ground is also available. 

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Near the Cemetery is the Convent 

of Zoccolanti with its 15 th 

century cloister. The church 

contains a polyptych by Pietro 

Alemanno. Have a walk to the 

Mount Falcone (904 m) to enjoy 

the amazing panoramic 

view. 

Not far away archaeology fans 

can appreciate ruins of the Roman 

thermal baths of Colle 

Terme. This is also a suitable 

area for walking excursions 

itineraries suiting all tastes. 

The village is sited on a overhanging 

rocky spur, therefore 

entry access is possible only on 

foot, across narrow and steep 

streets. Giardino Tronelli lying 

on a cliff slope and the ditch 

“Magica avventura” (Magic 

adventure), with water falls and 

small lakes, are also worth a 

mention. 


Mostra delle uova pasquali 

dipinte (Exhibition of painted 

Easter eggs) - Easter time; Festa 

di San Michele Arcangelo 

(Feast of St. Michele Arcangelo) 

- May; Montefalcone Estate 

(Summer in Montefalcone) - 

August; Maratona (Marathon) 

- August; Sapori d’autunno, 

(Autumn flavours), gastronomic 

tour in the historic centre 

- second week end in October.





Distance from 

Fermo 52 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0736.859101 


Phone: +39 0736.844526 

+39 0736.844379 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.montefortino.com 

com.montefortino@provincia.ap.it 


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MONTEFORTINO 

Montefortino became a Municipality 

(Comune) in 1084; afterwards, 

it was annexed to the 

feud of the Castellani family in 

Monte Passillo (today Comunanza), 

but it got free in 1249. 

In 1261 a few local soldiers, together 

with troops from Amandola 

and Sarnano managed to 

defeat Manfredi’s troops in Piano 

di Pieca. In 1318 Fermo 

took over the village in exchange 

for the promise to erect 

a Rocca and to garrison the 

town. Instead, a judge of Fermo 

seized the territory and the Castles 

of Montefortino, starting a 

long dispute. It passed then under 

the rule of the Varano family 

from Camerino and, later on, 

under the Sforza Family of Milan, 

in the second half of the 

15 th century; they transferred 

Montefortino to Fermo again, 

from which the village got free 

in 1484, until it was appropriated 

by the Popedom. In 1537 

Pope Paul III cancelled every 

other authority over the village. 

In 1860 Montefortino voted to 

join the Italian Kingdom of Vittorio 

Emanuele II. 


Amongst the monuments we 

recommend: the Municipal 

Gallery, housed in the elegant 

rooms of Palazzo Duranti, 

containing three panels belonging 

to a Pietro Alemanno’s 

polyptych of the 15 th century, a 

sacred work by Pier Francesco 

Fiorentino, a great number of 

wood and marble sculptures, 

an astylar cross and carved coffers. 

Above the village is the 

solitary 15 th century Church of 

St. Francesco, containing a 

Rosary Madonna. The impressive 

Palazzo Duranti stands 

closed to a Tempietto dell’Orologio 

(Small temple of the 

Clock), built in Neoclassical 

style. Other three churches can 

be seen in the historic centre: 

the Church of St. Andrea, the 

Pieve di St. Michele Arcangelo 

and the Church of St. Agostino. 

In Montefortino is the important 

Birdlife Museum of the 

Marche. Not far from the village 

is the Baroque Church of 

Madonna della Fonte; the 

country side is sprinkled with 

tower-houses, built in the feudal 

and Renaissance period. 

Don’t miss visiting the Pieve of 

St. Angelo in Montespino (10 th 

-11 th century), earlier outpost 

of the Farfensi monks, probably 

built in Longobard time. 


DISCOVER 

Very attractive is the contrast 

between the religious fervour 

related to the Church of 

Madonna dell’Ambro, often 

combined with the “naughty” 

legends, the surrounding 

mountains are filled with, and 

the “fearsome beauty” of the 

Infernaccio Gorge. 

WORTH TASTING 

Apart from the wine variety, 

don’t miss tasting local caciotta 

and pecorino cheese. Sheep’s 

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milk produced in the area is 

transformed into tasteful 

cheeses, both fresh and ripened 

ones. The secret of their fragrance 

rests with the local grazing 

land and the purity of 

mountain spring water. 


Sport funs may enjoy multipurpose 

sports centres in Montefortino 

and Trinacria’s indoor 

swimming pool. 


Piazza Umberto I is a kind of 

natural balcony, offering a wide 

panoramic view. The Sanctuary 

of Madonna dell’Ambro lies 

on a hillside on the right side of 

the Tenna River course, in a 

mountain gorge landscape. The 

Church contains frescoes representing 

the Sibilla. Enthusiastic 

trekking lovers may enjoy 

excursions to the Infernaccio 

Gorge (deep cleft, carved by 

the Tenna River between the 

Mounts Sibilla and Priora); 

ahead is the secluded Hermitage 

of St. Leonardo. 


Festival del Tartufo “vero” 

(Real-truffle-festival) - second 

Sunday in February; Sagra della 

cucciola, (cucciola “slug” 

festival) - August; Sagra d’autunno, 

Autumn Festival with 

traditional recipes - November. 

93


MONTELEONE DI FERMO 




Distance from 

Fermo 27 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.773521 


monteleone_di_fermo 

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The settlement of Monteleone 

existed already at the time of 

Faleria and was originally divided 

into two different villages: 

Monte Legumi e Torre 

de’ Casoli. In 533 Euterio, the 

King of the Longobards attacked 

Faleria and occupied 

Monte Legumi. Torre de’ Casoli 

withstood a 12-years-siege 

under the command of certain 

Leone, instead. To leave the 

memory of his value to posterity, 

the name of the new-established 

Municipality was subsequently 

changed from Torre 

de’ Casoli into Monteleone. 


Monteleone is a small village, 

sited on a rocky spur between 

Ete Vivo River and Lubrico 

stream. The Town Hall contains 

two small wooden paintings 

by Crivelli’s School, representing 

a Madonna and a St. 

Giovanni. The Romanesque 

gate and an octagonal keep 

(13 th - 15 th centuries), serving 

as bell tower for the parish 

Church of St. Giovanni Battista 

have been part of the original 

medieval fortress. The 

Church of the Crucifix, or 

Madonna della Misericordia, 

shows Romanesque elements 

and frescoes, among which is a 

Last Judgement of 1548, attributed 

to Vincenzo Pagani. In 

Piazza Umberto I stands the 

Church of St. Marone, built in 

the 16 th century on the foundations 

of earlier Romanesque 

buildings. 

WORTH TASTING 

You will be possibly enjoy local 

restaurants more than the 

village itself… The most prestigious 

fruit of this land is “truffle”, 

called “kitchen diamond” 

by experts. 


There are some multi-purpose 

sports grounds. 


The environs of Monteleone 

are very suitable to enjoy historical 

and naturalistic routes in 

the woody mounts of Ascoli 

hinterland. 


Festa di Sant’Antonio Abate 

(Feast of St. Antonio Abate) - 

Sunday after the 17 th of January; 

Festa della Madonna 

Addolorata (Feast of Madonna 

Addolorata) - Sunday after 

Easter; Festa di San Vincenzo 

Ferreri (Feast of St. Vincenzo 

Ferreri) - second Sunday after 

Easter; Rassegna teatrale 

(Theatre representations) - 

June and July; Sagra della pasta 

fresca (Festival of Handmade 

pasta) - July; Festa della 

Madonna del Soldato (Feast of 

Madonna of the Soldier) - first 

ten days in August; Festa di S. 

Marone (Feast of St. Marone) - 

18 th August; Festa di San Martino 

(Feast of St. Martino) - 11 th 

November. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

MONTELEONE DI F. 

ASCOLI PICENO





Distance from 

Fermo 32 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.780141 


Phone: +39 0736.844526 

+39 0736.844379 

ww.provincia.ap.it/montelparo 

com.montelparo@provincia.ap.it 

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Stone findings, probably dating 

from the Bronze Age, evidence 

the presence of Picene settlements 

already in the 7 th century 

before Christ. Vestiges of the late 

Roman imperial civilization 

have been discovered, too. The 

village is named after a castle 

called Eliprando, erected on a 

hilltop in the Early Middle Ages 

by the Longobard Eliasdoe, or 

Eliprando. It was likely originally 

called Monte Elprando, hence 

Montelparo. The castle passed 

under the rule of the Farfensi 

monks, who enlarged it. In 1046 

the territory including Montelparo, 

Smerillo and Montefalcone 

represented the core of the 

Farfensi possessions in the Piceno 

area. 

It became a free Municipality in 

the 12 th century, governed by its 

owns statutes. In the time between 

the 12 th and the 14 th centuries 

Montelparo’s population 

increased and the village experienced 

a flourishing time, so 

much that the aristocracy called 

it magnifica comunitas (magnificent 

community). Being a 

Guelph territory numerous 

Popes endowed it with many 

privileges and indulgences, but 

Sisto V cancelled any privilege, 

that it had ever obtained, when 

he created the Montalto diocese. 

In spite of that, the village kept 

being synonymous with political 

stability, thus between the 13 th 

and the 14 th centuries many people 

of the outskirts asked to get 

their permanent residence in 

Montelparo, whose population 

MONTELPARO 

increased to 5000 inhabitants. 


The urban frame work retains 

most of the medieval structure, 

while houses are laid out following 

the local territory features: a 

cluster of houses, getting smaller 

and smaller, as closer as you get 

to the centre of the village, which 

is also the highest point. There 

soars the bell tower of the Gothic 

Church of St. Michele Arcangelo, 

erected in the 14 th century, containing 

a fresco of 1527 showing 

a Crucifixion with Pietà and 

Eternal Father. 

The cylindrical keep included in 

the old defence ring walls stands 

close to the Town Hall (14 th - 15 th 

century), holding a display of 

prestigious parchments. The 

Church of St. Maria Novella 

(14 th century) contains a Vincenzo 

Pagani’s painting and the 

Convent of St. Agostino (18 th 

century), housing today the Museum 

of Sacred Objects, contains 

church furnishings and other 

valuable parchments. Those feeling 

like to discover unusualness 

may appreciate the “Old Street 

Handicrafts Museum” 


DISCOVER 

Montelparo is the birth place of 

two cardinals, Fulgenzio Travelloni 

and Gregorio Petrocchini. 

The village offers services, residences 

and recreational activities 

for older people, handicapped 

persons and disadvantage children. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

MONTELPARO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are ciauscolo, 

vincisgrassi, polenta on the 

“board”, emmer, frascarelli, 

tagliolini, pork, chicken, rabbit, 

lamb and roasted sucking pig. All 

this accompanied by excellent 

local white and red wines, as well 

as vincotto (literally cooked 

wine). 


Sport fans may enjoy the municipal 

indoor multi-purpose sports 

centre. 


Not far away from the village is 

the charming Church of St. 

Maria di Camurano, with remains 

of 15 th and 16 th century 

frescoes. 



(Feast of St. Antonio Abate) and 

Sagra del Baccalà (dried salt cod 

festival) - January; Festival “Il 

chiostro d’oro”, (“The golden 

cloister”) Festival, performances 

of street theatre and plays in dialect 

- July/August; Sagra della 

polenta sulla spianatora (Festival 

of the Polenta “on the board”) 

- Friday, Saturday and Sunday 

before the 15 th of August; Festa 

di Santa Maria in Camurano 

(Feast of St. Maria in Camurano) 

and Sfilata delle canestrelle (Parade 

of the Canestrelle) - September. 

95





Distance from 

Fermo 21 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.775135 

www.provincia.ap.it/montottone 

com.montottone@provincia.ap.it 

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Montottone was initially a very 

important Castle in the territory 

of Fermo, laid out between 

the 10 th and the 11 th century by 

Attone, Duke of Atri, hence 

Mons Actonis. In 1537 it became 

the chief town of the Papal 

State of Agro Piceno, including 

all castles, that were 

under the rule of Fermo at that 

time. During about 10 years 

governors had their residence 

in Montottone. 


In the historic centre it is possible 

to see the Castle walls with 

medieval keep and the Porta 

Marina (Castle gate); on the 

main square stands the Church 

of St. Pietro (17 th - 18 th century), 

containing a Vincenzo 

Paci’s organ of 1877; worth 

mentioning is the Neoclassical 

façade of Palazzo Amici (19 th 

century). Along the corso 

(main street) is the Church of 

St. Maria Ausiliatrice, retaining 

a painting, attributed to 

Vincenzo Pagani. Close to the 

Church you can find a medieval 

cistern. Of great interest 

are also the Church of St. Salvatore 

(15 th - 17 th centuries), 

the Church of Madonna delle 

Grazie (14 th - 17 th centuries) 

holding a valuable fresco, dating 

from the 15 th century; the 

Church and the Convent of St. 

Francesco, with Gothic-Romanesque 

portal and late 

Baroque interior with stuccoes 

and gilts. It holds many artworks, 

like a 18 th century 

MONTOTTONE 

wood carved choir, a Pietro da 

Rimini’s fresco of 1333 (it’s 

the only work of the artist, that 

he ever dated) and a Maratta’s 

painting. Don’t miss visiting 

the Ceramics and Earthenware 

Museum. 


DISCOVER 

Montottone is known as the 

“Paese de le cocce”, (the village 

of Earthenware), as it has 

been an important centre for 

the production of earthenware, 

ceramics, wrought iron and 

copper manufactures since the 

13 th century. Handicraft workshops 

sells their manufactures 

still today. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: beans 

with pork rinds, fried olives, 

tripe, hand made tagliatelle, 

vincisgrassi and roasted sucking 

pig. 


The following sports facilities 


skate rink, an indoor sports 

centre and a soccer field. 


Montottone is a medieval village 

sited on a rocky spur, 

about 28 km from the sea. In 

the village is a municipal public 

garden. 


tours, like the walking or 

mountain-bike itineraries 

across the Ete Valley. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

MONTOTTONE 

ASCOLI PICENO 



(Feast of St. Antonio Abate) - 

January; Festa della Madonna 

delle Grazie (Feast of Madonna 

delle Grazie) - Mid-June; 

Festa della Madonna Madre 

della Chiesa (Feast of the 

Madonna Mother of the 

Church) - last Sunday in July; 

Festival “La Brocca d’oro” 

food and wine festival - first 

half of August; Festa del Patrono 

San Lorenzo (Feast of the 

Patron Saint, St. Lorenzo) - 

10 th August; Sagra del fungo 

(Mushroom Festival) - September.





Distance from 

Fermo 13 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.259983 

www.provincia.ap.it/moresco 

com.moresco@provincia.ap.it 

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Historians disagree about the 

origin of the village: According 

to some opinions Moresco was 

founded in the 8 th century by a 

Moorish colony, coming from 

across the Adriatic Sea; other 

people say that people from 

Monterubbiano may have built 

the Castle to defend themselves 

from Barbarians; last but not 

least, the most likely possibility 

has it that local landlords 

moved to the hilltop to protect 

themselves from enemy attacks. 

In the 13 th century the 

village passed under the rule of 

Fermo until the Unification of 

Italy. In 1869 Moresco was incorporated 

with the other 

neighbouring municipalities. 

Finally, it got its administrative 

independence in 1910. 


In the walled around historic 

centre you can see the 12 th century 

heptagonal Tower, the 14 th 

century Clock Tower, Piazza 

del Castello with Gothic Portico, 

the Town Hall, housing numerous 

works of art, including 

a piece showing a Madonna in 

glory with Child, Angels and 

Saints by Vincenzo Pagani. 

Worth visiting is also the parish 

Church of SS. Lorenzo and 

Nicolò and the Church of St. 

Antonio Abate. Outside the ring 

walls are the Church of Madonna 

della Salute, the Church 

of St. Sofia, the Church of St. 

Lorenzo and the Church of St. 

Maria dell’Olmo, containing a 

Vincenzo Pagani’s Crucifixion. 

MORESCO 

WORTH TASTING 

Food and wine local specialities 

are virgin olive oil, traditional 

sausages and salamis like 

the famous “ciauscolo”, 

pecorino-cheese, hand made 

pasta recipes (tagliatelle and 

vincisgrassi), cakes (pizza with 

figs pastry), delicious peaches 

from the Aso Valley. Don’t 

miss tasting fried cream, perfectly 

matching with Ascoli’s 

stuffed olives. 





a volleyball ground. Sport fishing 

opportunity at the Santarelli 

lakes. 


Moresco is sited on a hill overlooking 

the Aso Valley, about 

12 km from the sea and not far 

away from the Sibillini Mountains. 

Just downhill the historic 

centre is a beautiful public garden. 

It’s a suitable area for historical 

and naturalistic tours along the 

pedestrian route leading from 

the historic centre to the municipal 

boundary, along which it is 

possible to see a great number 

of small rural Churches and 

Pinturette (devotion shrines), 

typical of the Aso Valley. 


Scampagnata alla Madonna 

dell’Olmo (outing at Madonna 

dell’Olmo) - last Sunday in 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

MORESCO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

April; Sagra dell’Asado (Asado 

Festival), beef barbecue - 

first week end in August; Festa 

del Patrono San Lorenzo (Feast 

of the Patron Saint, St. Lorenzo) 

and Sagra della polenta con 

le vongole (Festival of Polenta 

with clam sauce) - August; 

“Grand’angolo Eptagonale” 

(“Heptagonal wide-angle”): 

photographic exhibition at the 

heptagonal tower - August; Festa 

del Braciere (Brazier Festival) 

with roasted chestnuts, 

sausages and brochettes barbecue, 

Novello wine - last Sunday 

in October; Festa della Madonna 

della Salute (Feast of the 

Madonna of the Health) - Mid- 

October. 

97





Distance from 

Fermo 26 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.779181 

www.provincia.ap.it/ortezzano 

com.ortezzano@provincia.ap.it 

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The village originated in the 

Roman time, as the great number 

of archaeological findings 

and a record in Pliny the Elder’s 

Naturalis Historia as Urticinum 

evidence. In the Middles 

Ages it was one of the Farfa 

Abbey’s possessions in the 

Piceno area. Afterwards it 

passed under the rule of Fermo 

until the Unification of Italy. 


The Church of St. Maria del 

Soccorso (15 th -18 th centuries), 

preserves a 16 th century fresco, 

showing a Madonna Enthroned 

with Child and Saints 

of 1509, attributed to Vincenzo 

Pagani and an organ, built in 

1747. The noble Greek-crossplan 

Church of Carmine, erected 

in 725, contains a Madonna 

del Carmine, created by Maratta’s 

School. The Church of St. 

Girolamo was built over new in 

the second half of the 18 th century. 

Also to be seen are the remains 

of the impressive ring 

walls, dated from the 14 th century, 

Porta del Sole, gothic 

town gate and the polygonal 

Tower, trace of a 14 th century 

Rocca. 


DISCOVER 

Ortezzano is the birth place of 

Giuseppe Carboni (1856- 

1925), famous Latinist, co-author 

of the Latin dictionary 

Campanini-Carboni”, which 

has been used by Italian students 

during many years. To 

ORTEZZANO 

celebrate Carboni, the municipality, 

in collaboration with the 

University, organises a yearly 

Latin contest for secondaryschool 

students. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: sausages 

and salamis like the famous 

ciauscolo; lamb and mutton; 

roasted sucking pork; handmade 

pasta recipes (tagliatelle 

and “vincisgrassi”); peaches, 

apples and plums. 



are available: a five-a-side football 

ground, a tennis court, 

Boules (Italian Bocce) rinks 

and a soccer field. 


Ortezzano lies on a plain hilltop, 

overlooking the Aso Valley, 


Enjoy the panoramic view 

from the “belvedere”, sweeping 

further away to the Adriatic 

Sea. In the village are three 

public garden areas with free 

time facilities. We also recommend 

naturalistic excursions, 

like walking or mountain-bike 

itineraries along the Aso River 

or at the mouth of Indaco 

Stream. 


Fiera orto-florovivaistica 

(vegetables and flowers trade 

market) - second Sunday in 

May; Festa di S. Maria del 

Soccorso, (Feast of St. Maria 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ORTEZZANO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

del Soccorso) and Infiorata, 

picturesque event, attracting 

many people to appreciate the 

village streets, decorated with 

flowers - June; Sagra dell’agnello 

arrosto “co’ vattuto” 

(Roasted lamb Festival) - August; 

Il “Leccabaffi”, food 

and wine tasting - August; 

Festa del vino con rievocazione 

storica della pigiatura 

(Wine festival and historical 

revival representation of 

grapes treading) - second last 

week in September.





Distance from 

Fermo 12 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.630108 


ponzano_di_fermo 

com.ponzano@provincia.ap.it 

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PONZANO DI FERMO 

In the 7 th century Ponzano was 

under the rule of the Farfa 

Abbey: the monks moved there 

and built a Church, dedicated 

to St. Maria Mater Domini. In 

1214 the Castle was under the 

authority of Fermo, but in the 

period between 1416 and 1443 

was repeatedly plundered by 

the Malatesta family and by 

Alessandro Sforza. In 1570 

Pope Pius V divided Ponzano 

from Fermo and set it up as a 

free Municipality. 


In the walled around historic 

centre it is possible to appreciate 

the Porta d’accesso (Town 

Gate) with an embattled keep 

of the 15 th century and a threearchways 

arcade. The parish 

Church of St. Maria a “Pede 

Pontis”, rebuilt in 1792, contains 

numerous masterpieces, 

like a 17 th century Rosary 

Madonna, an altorilievo showing 

a Madonna with Child, example 

of Tuscan art of the 16 th 

century and an astylar Cross of 

1437. Outside the historic centre 

stands the monumental 

Church of “Santa Maria Mater 

Domini” (or Church of St. 

Marco), originally erected in 

the 7 th century, but rebuilt between 

the 11 th and 12 th centuries, 

splendid example of Romanesque 

style, with Romanesque 

lowered tripartite facade 

and a stout bell tower (rebuilt 

in the 17 th century), probably 

a defence element, typical 

of the Farfensi churches; an im- 

portant and very popular fair, 

dedicated to St. Marco, takes 

place each year near the church. 

In the hamlet Torchiaro is the 

Church of Ss. Simone and Giuda, 

built again in 1827 by the 

architect Alessandro Vassalli. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: tagliatelle 

with wild boar ragùsauce, 

pappardelle with hare 

ragù-sauce and beans with pork 

rinds. 



are available: a soccer field, 

two five-a-side football 

grounds and a volleyball 

ground. 


Ponzano is a medieval village 

perched on a hilltop, about 15 

km from the sea and not far 

away from the Sibillini Mountains. 

In the village is a municipal 

public garden. 

The territory offers walking 


across the charming hills and 

the surrounding country side. 


Festa e Fiera del Patrono San 

Marco (Feast and Fair of the 

Patron Saint, St. Marco) - 25 th 

April; Festa del Sacro Cuore 

(Feast of the Holy Heart) in the 

hamlet Capparuccia - second 

Sunday in June; “Da Castello a 

Comune libero”, (“From castle 

to free Municipality”) histori- 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 


ASCOLI PICENO 

cal revival representation and 

Palio delle Botti (Barrels palio) 

- last week in July; Festa della 

Madonna Divina Pastora 

(Feast of the Madonna divine 

Shepherdess) - first Sunday in 

August; Festa della Birra 

(Beer festival) - August; Festa 

del bambino (the Feast of the 

Child) - September; Castagnata, 

(Chestnut festival) in the 

hamlet Capparuccia - second 

Sunday in October; Castagnata, 

(Chestnut festival) in 

the hamlet Torchiaro - third 

Sunday in October. 

99





Distance from 

Fermo 13 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.510404 

www.provincia.ap.it/rapagnano 

com.rapagnano@provincia.ap.it 

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By the year 1000 the Castle of 

Rapagnano was under the rule 

of the Bishop of Fermo; in 

1229 it became a property of 

Montegiorgio, but Fermo took 

it back in 1244. The later history 

of Rapagnano is part of 

Fermo’s history. 



see the remains of the ring 

walls, with its particular 

ovoidal lay out, and three 

keeps; at the northern site is 

the Porta da Bora, on the 

southern side is the Porta della 

Pesa, gateway to the main 

square. On the square is the 

Town Hall (18 th century), designed 

by the architect Virginio 

Bracci, housing different 

documents and a Library 

of great value. In the town 

centre is the parish Church of 

St. Giovanni Battista, erected 

in the period between 1808 

and 1822 on the area, that was 

once occupied by two earlier 

churches. The present church 

has got a slender facade with 

soaring bell tower. Worth 

mentioning are also the 

Church of St. Rosalia (1754), 

the Church of St. Antonio (17 th 

century), the Painting gallery 

and the Parish Museum. Outside 

the village you can find 

three rural churches: the 

Church of St. Colomba, rebuilt 

in the 18 th century, ruins 

of the Church of St. Tiburzio 

(1507) and the Church of the 

Beate Vergine Maria. 

RAPAGNANO 


DISCOVER 

In 1880 archaeological excavations 

were carried out in the 

hamlet San Triburzio: findings 

of the early Roman and Roman 

time, including shields, spears, 

bronze helmets with embossed 

decorations are now displayed 

in the Archaelogical Museum 

in Ancona. Rapagnano is Pope 

John XVIII’s birth place 

(1004-9). 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are virgin 

olive oil, traditional sausages 

and salamis, d.o.c. wines Rosso 

Piceno and Falerio, honey, 

hand made pasta recipes (tagliatelle 

and “vincisgrassi”) and 

the delicious Ascoli’s stuffed 

olives. 





ground, two municipal indoor 

sports centres and a sport 

field, including a cycle path. 


Rapagnano is sited on a hill on 

the left side of the Tenna Valley, 


In the village is a public garden 

and in the hamlet San Triburzio 

is a park with a play ground for 

children. The hilly country side 

of the Tenna Valley is a suitable 

area for different walking tours 

of great naturalistic and historical 

interest. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

RAPAGNANO 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 


Festa del Patrono San Giovanni 

Battista (Feast of the Patron 

Saint, St. Giovanni Battista) 

- second Sunday in May; 

Festa della birra (Beer Festival) 

in Piane - June; Sagra dell’Oca 

arrosto (Roasted goose 

Festival) - July; Festa del grano 

(Wheat Festival) - end of 

July/beginnings of August; 

Castagne e vino novello 

(Chestnuts and Novello wine) 

in Piane - November.





Distance from 

Fermo 41 km 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.79124 


Phone: +39 0736.844526 

+39 0736.844379 

www.provincia.ap.it/smerillo 

com.smerillo@provincia.ap.it 

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The original name Castrum 

Smerilli is possibly derived 

from certain Smerilla, a 

woman living in the surrounding 

country side. According to 

other opinions, the village 

might be named after the 

“smeriglio”, (merlin) very typical 

small aggressive hawk. A 

merlin, flying over five hills, is 

actually represented in the 

town coat of arms. 

The village originated in the 9 th 

century, as recorded in the 

chronicles relating the disputes 

between the Empire and the Papacy; 

a later mention is recorded 

in relation to the disputes between 

Camerino and Fermo, 

that definitely took over Smerillo 

in 1300. 

The noble family Boce da 

Smerillo were the lords of the 

town. It is the birth family of 

Buongiovanni, called “the 

Condottiere”. In 1409 the 

Count of Carrara conquered the 

castle, that became a Church 

territory later on. Along the 

road leading to the village, as 

well as in other spots across it, 

it is possible to see traces of the 

medieval ring walls. The village 

played an important role 

also in Roman time, as the big 

amount of Emperial coins, 

found out in the area, evidences. 

Smerillo was a confederate 

Municipium during the 

Tiburtine wars. 


Among the main works of art 

worth mentioning are the re- 

SMERILLO 

mains of the original medieval 

ring walls with Keep, the Romanesque 

Church of St. Caterina 

(14 th century), containing 

important frescoes, the interesting 

Fossil Museum, as well 

as the very unusual Gallery of 

Contemporary and Children 

Art. 


DISCOVER 

Of particular interest is the Fessa, 

a peculiar and charming 

cleft, full of very valuable fossils. 

Thanks to its breathtaking 

panoramic position, Smerillo is 

also known as “Roof of the 

Marche”. 

WORTH TASTING 

Traditional recipes resting with 

the widest choice of mushrooms, 

truffles and chestnuts 

will satisfy even the most delicate 

palates. 


The territory offers excellent 

opportunities to engage in relaxed 

walks amid pristine unspoiled 

nature. 


Nature lovers may appreciate 

the protected floristic oasis, 

laid out in the Smerillo’s wood. 

In the hamlet San Martino al 

Faggio stands the historic 

Small Church of St. Martino 

with its stout Romanesque tower 

and important paintings inside. 

An old water mill evidences 

the flourishing agricul- 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

SMERILLO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

tural activity, that has always 

characterized the area. 


“Lo vatte” (farmyard festival 

in the hamlet Ceresola) - end of 

July; Festa popolare di San 

Martino (Folk Festival of St. 

Martino) - first ten days in August; 

“Sogno di una notte di 

mezza estate” (“Midsummer 

night dream”) outdoor movie 

review - second week in August; 

Festa di San Nicola 

(Feast of St. Nicola in the hamlet 

Ceresola) - second Sunday 

in September; Castagnata in 

piazza (Chestnut festival on 

the piazza) - third Sunday in 

October. 

101


i 

S. VITTORIA IN MATENANO 




Distance from 

Fermo 33 km 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.780111 


Phone: +39 0736.844526 

+39 0736.844379 


santa_vittoria_in_matenano 

com.svittoria@provincia.ap.it 

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Around the year 680 some friars, 

on advice of the bishop of 

Marciano, moved in the 

Monastery of S. Ippolito, sited 

between Mount Matenano and 

Mount Falcone. When Abbot 

Wandelbert arrived at the 

monastery in 790, the 

monastery became a reference 

centre for the spiritual life and 

the safety of the local people. 

Abbot Pietro, escaping from 

the Farfense Abbey in Sabina, 

besieged by the Saracens, took 

refuge there a few time later. In 

934 Abbot Raffredo arranged 

to transfer in the village the 

mortal vestments of St. Vittoria, 

martyred in Rome in the 3 rd 

century, whom the village is 

named after. 

Thanks to following population 

increase and territorial extension 

the village became a 

lively medieval settlement, 

which the Farfensi monks consolidated 

their authority on. In 

1357 it became the chief town 

of the Farfense presidium, that 

included at the time the most 

part of the modern provinces of 

Macerata and Ascoli Piceno. 

The monks also contributed to 

boost important productive activities 

like agriculture, building 

and handicrafts (copper and 

wood). 


Santa Vittoria in Matenano is a 

village of great historical, artistic 

and literary interest, that can 

boast many monumental 

works, such us the 14 th century 

embattled Tower of Abbot 

Odoriso, the Church of St. Agostino 

with 18 th century aristocratic 

interior and 15 th century 

cloister, the impressive Palazzo 

Monti and Palazzo Melis, the 

bridge Conti della Torre, the 

historic Teatro del Leone, built 

at beginnings of the 19 th century. 

In the highest part of the village 

is the parish Church of St. 

Vittoria, big building, dating 

from the late 18 th century, with 

crypt containing the 15 th century 

urn with Santa Vittoria’s relic. 

Go further uphill and you 

will reach the Cappellone, ruins 

of a Farfense buildings, still 

preserving Giacomo da Campli’s 

valuable frescoes (1471). 

In the village are also a Municipal 

Library, historical archives 

and a Municipal Museum. 


DISCOVER 

The terrirory is sprinkled with 

cloisters, churches and convents, 

evidencing the spirituality, 

that has always characterized 

the area. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are vincisgrassi, 

tagliatelle, polenta, pig 

meat, lamb, olive oil, white and 

red wine, as well as vincotto 

(literally cooked wine). 


Sport fans may appreciate the 

wide choice of hiking, mountain-bike 

and horse trekking 

itineraries. Amazing panoram- 

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ic views of the Sibillini Mountains 

on one side and the Adriatic 

Coast on the other will 

make it easier and even more 

pleasant! 


Over the village is a thick 

wood. The Park of St. Francesco 

and the public gardens 

are ideal places to relax. The 

Sepe, as well as Palazzo della 

Torre and the Town Hall are also 

worth the effort to get a little 

bit off the centre. 


Festa della Patrona Santa Vittoria 


St. Vittoria) - 20 th June; Concerti 

di musica classica e polifonica 

(Classical and Polyphonic 

concerts) - July/August; 

Rappresentazioni teatrali 

(Theatre representations) - July/August; 

Sfilata delle canestrelle 

(Parade of the canestrelle) 

- 15 th August.

PROVINCE OF ASCOLI PICENO

Province of Ascoli Piceno 

APPIGNANO DEL TRONTO 




Distance from 

Ascoli Piceno 16 km 

i 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0736.86131 


Phone: +39 0736.251747 


Appignano_del_Tronto 

com.appignano@provincia.ap.it 

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The earliest mention regarding 

“Castrum Appungnani” dates 

back to medieval times. In the 

11 th century the Castrum was 

given to the Bishop of Ascoli 

Piceno and passed later to the 

Farfensi monks, who fortified 

it with defensive walls and promoted 

its religious and economic 

development. In 1291 

the Castle became a free Municipality, 

governed by its own 

Statutes. 


The parish Church of St. Giovanni 

Battista, of the early 14 th 

century, preserves the remains 

of frescoes from different periods, 

a terracotta Pietà of the 

14 th century and a Simone De 

Magistris’ painting of 1589, 

representing the Pentecost. 

The Church of St. Michele Arcangelo, 


was restored several times 

in the later centuries. It preserves 

a Vincenzo Pagani’s 

painting, representing the Assumption 

and a reliquary of the 

Holy Cross, a goldsmith work 

attributed to Pietro Vannini. 

The Church of St. Maria del 

Piano Santo, of the 17 th century, 

preserves a fine baroque altar 

and frescoes of the 14 th century. 


DISCOVER 

The town of Appignano stands 

out for its handicraft manufacturing 

of pillow laces and for 

the production of fireworks of 

high quality and reliability. 

WORTH TASTING 

Among its local products we 

recommend: virgin olive oil; 

the d.o.c. Wine Rosso Piceno 

Superiore; stuffed pasta (timballo 

and cannelloni); cakes 

(the Frustingo, the Easter ringshaped 

cake and the pizza with 

cheese); delicious Ascoli’s pitted 

big green olives, stuffed 

with meat, eggs and parmesan, 

breaded and fried in virgin 

olive oil. 



are available: a municipal gymnasium, 

a tennis court and a 

multi-purpose sports ground. 


The village is situated on a hill 

on the slopes of the Mount Ascensione; 

the territory, run 

across by the Chifente stream, 

is of a great naturalistic interest 

as it is characterized by the coexistence 

of rocks and ravines 

with beautiful green hills. The 

territory of the Tronto Mountain 


Montana del Tronto) offers historical 

and naturalistic itineraries, 

at the discovery of 

churches, medieval villages 

and of an unspoiled nature. 


Processione del Cristo morto 

(Procession of the dead Christ) 

- Good Friday; Festa di San 

Vincenzo (Feast of St. Vincen- 

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zo) - Sunday after Easter; Fiera 

del cappello (Hat festival) - 

second Sunday in June; Festa 

di San Giovanni Battista (Feast 

of St. Giovanni Battista) - June; 

Processione delle Canestrelle 

(Procession of the Canestrelle) 

- 15 th August; Funerale dell’anno 

vecchio (Funeral of the 

dead year) - 31 st December.


ARQUATA DEL TRONTO 




Distance from 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0736.809122 


Phone: +39 0736.251747 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 


Arquata_del_Tronto 

com.arquata@provincia.ap.it 


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Already Statio of the Via 

Salaria in Roman times with the 

name of “Supircanum”, in 1225 

Arquata (from arx, fortress) 

voluntarily submitted to Ascoli 

Piceno, getting a wide autonomy 

in exchange. In 1429 it 

passed under the rule of Norcia 

till the 18 th century. During the 

Napoleonic invasion, in 1809, it 

was annexed to Umbria. After 

Napoleon, with the restoration 

of the pontifical government, it 

came back to the delegation of 

Ascoli Piceno. 


Very interesting is the medieval 

Fortress, built in the 13 th century 

in a dominant position and rebuilt 

between the 14 th and 15 th 

centuries by Giovanna II from 

Naples. The Church of SS. Annunziata 

preserves a wooden 

crucifix of the 13 th century. The 

Church of the Madonna della 

Neve, in the hamlet Faete , contains 

some frescoes by Pietro 

Alemanno. In the Church of St. 

Francesco, in the hamlet Borgo, 

you can find a copy of the Turin 

Shroud, made in the 17 th century, 

three paintings of the 17 th 

Century, a polychrome wooden 

statue of the 16 th century representing 

St. Antonio da Padova, 

a fresco of a Madonna with 

Child and Saints. The Church of 

St. Agata, in the hamlet Spelonga, 

preserves important frescoes, 

a fine polychrome terracotta 

and a flag, stolen to the 

Turks during the Battle of Lepanto 

(1571). The Church of the 

Madonna del Sole, in the hamlet 

Capodacqua, is a valuable octagonal 

structure of the 16 th century, 

full of symbolic meanings. 

The Church of St. Silvestro, located 

in the hamlet Colle on a 

high cliff, contains frescoes, 

dated 1511. In the Church of 

San Pietro, in the hamlet Borgo, 

you can find a painting of the 

16 th century attributed to Cola 

dell’Amatrice. The parish 

Church of the Holy Crucifix, in 

the hamlet Pretare, preserves a 

carved and painted crucifix of 

the 17 th century. Worth seeing 

also the Museum of Arte Immanente 

“Villa Papi”, founded in 

1990 by the artist Diego Papi. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: truffles, 

porcini mushrooms, chestnuts, 

pecorino cheese, potatoes, 

beans and cakes (mostaccioli). 



are available: a soccer field, four 

tennis courts, a multipurpose 

gymnasium and a skating rink. 

You can enjoy winter sports in 

the famous ski resort of Forca 

Canapine (1541m); in Forca di 

Presta (1560m) you can enjoy 

free flights with hang-gliders 

and paragliders. 


Arquata is the only Italian town 

between two parks: the Sibillini 

Mountains National Park and 

the National Park of Gran Sasso 

and Monti della Laga. It is the 

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ARQUATA DEL T. 

starting point for different excursions, 

including walking, 


itineraries. 


Fiera del Perdono (Fair of the 

forgiveness) in the hamlet Borgo 

- 2 nd August; Festa del Patrono 

San Rocco (Feast of the 

Patron Saint, St. Rocco) - 16 th 

August; Rievocazione storica 

“Alla Corte della Regina Giovanna” 

(Historical revival representation 

at the court of Queen 

Giovanna) - 1 st August; Rievocazione 

della Battaglia di Lepanto 

(Historical revival representation 

of the Battle of Lepanto) 

in the hamlet Spelonga - August, 

every three years; La 

discesa delle fate (The discent 

of the Fairies) in the hamlet 

Pretare - August, every three 

years; Sagra dei Marroni e dei 

prodotti tipici (Festival of marrons 

and typical products) - last 

Sunday in October. 

107





Distance from 


i 

i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0734.919002 

www.provincia.ap.it/Carassai 

com.carassai@provincia.ap.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

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MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The origins of Carassai are very 

remote, as the big amount of 

traces of the Neolithic period, 

found on its territory, evidences. 

In the Middle Ages the country 

was called Castrum Guardiae 

and was under the rule of Brunforte; 

in 1252 it passed under the 

control of Matthew d’Acquaviva, 

returning later to the family 

Brunforte, who gave it to Fermo 

in 1321. Accused of insubordination 

against the Popedom, it was 

firstly destroyed between 1324 

and 1325 and in 1356 it underwent 

a second destruction by order 

of the Cardinal Albornoz. 


In the village you can see the remains 

of fortified city walls, dating 

from the 14 th and 15 th centuries, 

with polygonal and 

squared keeps. The Old Castle 

was built between the 6 th and 9 th 

century; the New Castle was 

built in the 13 th century. The 

Church of St. Maria del Buon 

Gesù, rebuilt in the 18 th century, 

preserves a wooden sculpture of 

Abruzzi art, several frescoes of 

the 16 th century, a canvas with a 

Crucifixion by Andrea Boscolo, 

a painting of Vincenzo Pagani 

and an other painting of the 17 th 

century, attributed to the Pomarancio’s 

School. The Church 

of St. Lorenzo Martyr was rebuilt 

in the 18 th century. Moreover, 3 

km away from the town centre is 

the medieval castle of Rocca di 

Montevarmine of the 10 th century, 

containing the Church of St. 

Pietro, which is located near the 

CARASSAI 

Church of St. Michele. Worth 

visiting is also the Abbey of St. 

Angelo in Farfense Piano (11 th 

century), located on the right 

bank of the Aso River, and the 

Municipal Archaeological Museum. 

WORTH TASTING 


olive oil, traditional sausages, including 

the famous “ciauscolo”, 

d.o.c. Wines Rosso Piceno and 

Falerio; different desserts like 

Easter ring-shaped cakes, pizza 

with cheese, wine must ciambellas 

(ring-shaped cakes) and currant 

buns. 



available: a soccer field, a five-aside 

football field, a tennis court, 

a basketball ground, a motocross 

field and a skating rink. 


DISCOVER 

The village is located on the hill 

ridge between the Aso River and 

the Menocchia River, about 

15km away from the sea: from 

everywhere you can enjoy an 

amazing panorama, sweeping 

away from the coast to the Apennines. 

There are also two parks 

with recreational facilities: the 

municipal park and the playground 

for children. You can enjoy 

historical and cultural excursions, 

on foot or by mountain 

bike, at the discovery of monuments 

and churches of the territory, 

and also excursions along the 

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paths of the lush Aso Valley or 

along the hilly paths, that lead to 

Rocca di Montevarmine. 


Fiera di Sant’Angelo in Piano 

(Fair of St. Angelo in Piano) - 

Sunday after the 8 th of May; Festa 

del Patrono San Barnaba 


Barnaba) - 11 th June; Premio 

Josephin “Arte e Informazione” 

(Josephin Award “Art and Information”) 

- first half of July; Festa 

dei ragazzi (Guys festival) - July; 

Festa della Sangria (Sangria Festival) 

- period between July-August, 

Sagra delle tagliatelle con 

la papera (Festival of tagliatelle 

with duck-sauce) - third weekend 

in July; Sagra degli Gnocchi 

(Gnocchi festival) - first Sunday 

in August; Sagra della Salsiccia 

alla Brace (Grilled sausages festival) 

- 15 th August; Festa del Voto 

in onore della Madonna del 

Buon Gesù (Day of the Voto to 

the Madonna del Buon Gesù) - 

last Sunday in August.





Distance from 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0735.98130 

www.comune.cossignano.ap.it 

comune.cossignano@libero.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

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In 1309 Cossignano became 

part of the possessions of the 

Abbey of Farfa in the Picene. 

The village became autonomous 

in the 14 th century, 

but it has been a disputed territory 

between Fermo and Ascoli 

Piceno for a long time, because 

of its strategic position. 



see the town walls with its 

Keeps, the “Grottoni”, the Porta 

Levante, (eastern town gate) 

also known as St. George’Gate 

and the Porta da Sole.On the 

square you can find the Civic 

Tower (15 th century) and the 

Church of Assunta (18 th century), 

which preserves some 

paintings by Nicola Monti, including 

the Assumption and St. 

George, as well as a Madonna 

with Child and a St. Domenico, 

attributed to Maratta’s School. 


visit the Municipal Library, the 

municipal Museum Antiquarium 

“Nicola Pansoni” and the 

Municipal Historical Archives. 

On the town walls you can see 

the Church of Annunziata 

(12 th -13 th centuries), which 

preserves frescoes from different 

periods, including a St. Lucia 

by Crivelleschi’s School, 

an altar-piece representing the 

saints Antonio Abate, Antonio 

da Padova and Giobbe by Vincenzo 

Pagani and a Deposition, 

attributed to Cola dell’Amatrice. 

Outside the town walls is 

the “Casa di terra”, a building 

COSSIGNANO 

dating from the year 1000 with 

a supporting structure, made of 

earth and straw. 

Worth visiting is the Villa Trocchi 

(end of 700), considered 

one of the most beautiful villas 

in the province, with a garden 

and surrounded by a park of 

century-old pines. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are: the 

“Taccù” (first course consisting 

of a mixture of flour and 

water), handmade tagliatelle 

and “maccheroncini”, stuffed 

olives and fried cremini, beans 

with pig rinds, stockfish with 

celery and potatoes, Frustingo, 

Christmas cake, made with 

figs, walnuts and raisins. 





field and a multipurpose 

gymnasium. 


Cossignano rises on a hill between 

the rivers Menocchia 

and Tesino, about 15km away 

from the sea. Adjacent to the 

historic centre is a green public 

area. For those, who love walking 

and cycling in nature, 

there’s the municipal circuit 

called “Castello di Marte”: it 

starts from Carassai, continues 

across the picturesque rural 

area of Cossignano and joins 

the circuit of Montalto delle 

Marche. 

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Festa di Sant’Antonio and 

Sagra dello stoccafisso (Feast 

of St. Antonio and Stockfish 

Festival) - 17 th January; Festa e 

fiera del Patrono San Giorgio 

(Feast and Fair of the Patron 

Saint, St. Giorgio) - 25 th April; 

Rievocazione storica medioevale“Al 

Castello di Ser Balduzio”(Historical 

medieval revival 

representation “At the 

castle of Sir Balduzio”) - first 

Saturday in August, Sagra del 

pesce fritto (Fried fish Festival)- 

August; Sagra del prosciutto 

(Ham Festival) - August; 

Sagra della salsiccia 

(Sausage Festival) - August; 

Sagra di Ferragosto (Ferragosto 

Festival), tasting of typical 

local products - 15 th August. 

109





Distance from 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0736.373132 


Phone: +39 0736.844526 

+39 0736.844379 

www.provincia.ap.it/Force 

com.force@provincia.ap.it 

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The origins of Force date from 

the 5 th century before Christ, 

when, peoples of the area settled 

there to protect themselves from 

attacks during the barbarian invasions. 

After year 1000 Force 

became a possession of the 

Abbey of Farfa, but since the 

13 th century it began to assert its 

independence and fighting to 

become a free Municipality. In 

1804 it obtained the status of 

Town, thanks to Pope Pius VII. 


The Collegiate Church of St. 

Paolo, built on the ruins of an 

earlier Farfense Church (12 th 

century), preserves the Roman 

apse and Simone De Magistris’ 

artworks. The Church of St. 

Francesco (19 th century) was 

rebuilt on a previous Romanesque 

church, designed by 

Giuseppe Sacconi. The suburban 

Church of Santa Maria 

delle Grazie is built in Romanesque 

style. The Church of 

St. Stefano, in the hamlet Montecchio, 

as well as the Church of 

St. Taddeo are also recommended. 

Worth seeing is also the 18 th 

century Town Hall, dominated 

by the Civic Tower, the Palace 

del Priorato and Villa Verrucchio 

of the 20 th century, built in 

an eclectic oriental style. 


DISCOVER 

The town of Force is also 

known as the “Land of 

Calderai” for its copper handicraft 

manufacturing, an ancient 

FORCE 

activity introduced in the 16 th 

century by the Farfensi monks. 

The origin of its name is due to 

its nature of place of transition 

(“fork”) between the valleys of 

Tronto, Tesino and Aso. 

WORTH TASTING 

Local specialities are pecorino 

cheese, polenta, lamb, wild 

boar, truffles, porcini mushrooms 

and vincotto (literally 

cooked wine). 




motocross field and a multipurpose 

sports field. 


Force is a pleasant town, situated 

on the crest Aso-Tesino, that 

falls into the Sibillini Mountain 


dei Sibillini), a territory 

rich in history and culture and 

with an outstanding natural 

landscape. Within the village 

you can find the Municipal Park 

Villino Verrucchio. The town is 

suitable for pleasant historicalcultural 

and panoramic walks 

across the picturesque old town. 


Concerto dell’Epifania (Epiphany 

Concert) - 6 th January; 

Fiera di San Salvatore (Fair of 

St. Salvatore) - Monday after 

Easter, Sagra delle fave e del 

formaggio (Broad Beans and 

cheese Festival) - first Sunday in 

May, Festa di San Vincenzo 

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Ferreri and Sagra del timballo e 

del pesce fritto (Feast of St. Vincenzo 

Ferreri and Festival of 

timballo and fried fish) in the 

hamlet Montemoro - May; Festa 

Beata Assunta Pallotta e Sagra 

della “Cacciannanze (Feast 

of Blessed Assunta Pallotta and 

“Cacciannanze” Festival) - second 

Sunday in July; Mostra del 

rame e del ferro battuto (Exhibtion 

of copper and wrought iron) 

- July and August; Festa del SS. 

Crocifisso and Sagra della pasta 

al tartufo e dei funghi porcini 

(Feast of the Holy Crucifix and 

Festival of pasta with mushrooms 

and truffle) - second Sunday 

in August; Antichi sapori 

per le vie del borgo (Old flavours 

through the streets of the 

village) - third Sunday in August; 

Festa dell’Immacolata 

(Feast of the Immacolata) - 8 th 

December; Rassegna internazionale 

Corali polifoniche 

(International polyphonic review) 

- second Sunday in December.





Distance from 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0735.72112 

+39 0735.72312 

www.comune.massignano.ap.it 

com.massignano@ 

regione.marche.it 

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Massignano (Massa Aniane) 

was a suburb of the ancient Roman 

town of Cupra. In the 13 th 

century the town was subjected 

to Fermo, but its geographical 

position made it constantly 

longed for by Ascoli Piceno. 

In 1532 it was conquered by 

Ascoli and, from that time till 

the 18 th century, it was under 

the Papal States. 


At the entrance of the village 

you can find the neoclassical 

Church of Misericordia, built 

in the 19 th century. In the medieval 

Old Town, you can see 

the Civic Tower (1572), serving 

as bell tower already for the old 

Church of the Monastery, the 

Town Hall, once Augustinian 

Monastery, and the Church of 

St. Giacomo Maggiore (18 th 

century). Next to the Church 

there’s the Parish Museum of 

Sacred Art, which preserves 

different art works, including a 

painting of a Praying Madonna 

with Child of the 15 th century 

by Vittore Crivelli. 


also find lots of ancient noble 

palaces. In the hamlet Villa 

Santi is the Abbey of SS. Felice 

and Adaucto, rebuilt in the 17 th 

century and keeping the Romanesque 

apse of the 10 th century. 

WORTH TASTING 


have to remember: meat, traditional 

sausages, pecorino 

MASSIGNANO 

cheese, extra-virgin olive oil, 

handmade pasta (maccheroncini), 

d.o.c. wines Rosso Piceno 

and Falerio. Worth tasting are 

its delicious stuffed olives. 



are available: tennis court, a 

soccer field, a swimming pool 

and a sports field. 


You can enjoy historical and 

natural excursions, like mountain 

bike, horse trekking and 

walking itineraries, at the discovery 

of the fascinating area 

of Menocchia Valley. 


Festa della Madonna delle 

Grazie and Fiera della Primavera 

(Feast of the Madonna 

delle Grazie and Spring Fair) - 

Tuesday after Easter; Festa di 

San Felice a Villa Santi (Feast 

of St. Felice at Villa Santi) - 

second Sunday after Easter; 

Festa della Ginestra (Broom 

Festival) - late May, early June; 

Festa Medievale (Medieval 

Festival) - July; Sagra delle 

Frittelle (Fritters Festival) - 

14 th August; Festa della 

Madonna del Soccorso (Feast 

of the Madonna del Soccorso) - 

second Sunday in September. 

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ASCOLI PICENO 

111


MONTEDINOVE 




Distance from 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0736.829410 


Phone: +39 0736.844526 

+39 0736.844379 

www.comune.montedinove.ap.it 

info@comune.montedinove.ap.it 

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MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The origins of the town date 

from the end of the 6 th century 

when people of Ascoli took 

refuge to escape from Longobard 

invasions. In 1039 the village 

was given by Longino di 

Azione, Longobard feudal 

Lord, to the Abbey of Farfa; its 

monks fortified the village and 

turned it into one of the most 

beautiful castles in the area. In 

1585 it became part of the Papal 

States, until the Unification 

of Italy in 1861. 


The Church of Santa Maria de 

Cellis, dating from the 11 th century, 

contains a wooden crucifix 

of the 14 th century and a 

fresco of 1512, representing the 

Madonna of Mercy by Vincenzo 

Pagani. The 17 th century 

Sanctuary of St. Thomas Becket 

preserves a Madonna between 

SS. Tommaso and Francesco 

and a wooden statue of 

St. Tommaso. The Church of St. 

Lorenzo Martyr (1792) is a 

work of Pietro Maggi. Worth 

visiting is also the Town Hall, 

the remains of the high ring 

walls and the Porta della Vittoria 

(historic town gate). 

WORTH TASTING 


olive oil, pecorino cheese, traditional 

salami; d.o.c. wines 

Rosso Piceno and Falerio, 

handmade pasta (timballi e 

tagliatelle), mushrooms, white 

and black truffle, lamb meat 

and mutton, cakes (frustingo), 

pizza with cheese, pizza with 

figs. 




sports ground and Boules (Italian 

bocce) rinks. 


Montedinove is located on the 

ridge between the Aso Valley 

and the Tesino Valley; from the 

hill you can enjoy a wide 

panoramic view, sweeping 

away from the Sibillini Mountains 

to the Adriatic Sea. Within 

the town, in the hamlet San 

Tommaso, there is a municipal 

playground. The territory is included 

in the Sibillini Mountain 


Montana dei Sibillini), habitat 

of a significant natural and 

landscape interest, which offers 

the possibility of different 

walking or mountain-bike excursions, 

at the discovery of 

different artistic natural and 

cultural treasures of the area. 


Festa e fiera di San Tommaso 

(Feast and Fair of St. Tommaso) 

- first Sunday in June; Festa 

del patrono San Lorenzo (Feast 

of the Patron Saint, St. Lorenzo) 

- August; Montedinove Sapori 

(Montedinove flavours), 

food-and-wine walks through 

the streets of the town - August. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

MONTEDINOVE 

ASCOLI PICENO





Distance from 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0736.806122 


Phone: +39 0736.251747 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.provincia.ap.it/Montegallo 

com.montegallo@provincia.ap.it 


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YOUTH HOSTELS 


The place is mentioned in the 

Egidiane Constitutions of 1357, 

as Mons Sanctae Mariae in Gallo. 

In 1378 it’s remembered as 

land of St. Maria in Lapide. Only 

in 1580 it was called Montegallo. 

In ancient times Pelasgi, Marsi 

and Sabini lived there. It came 

under the Farfense rule in the 8 th 

century. According to some historians, 

it was Marco Gallo, an 

envoy of Carlo Magno, who 

founded the Castle of St. Maria 

in Lapide, which is still immersed 

in the bush vegetation 

between Balzo and Fonditore. 

During the 15 th century the walls 

of this castrum gave origin to 

Balzo, that is now the seat of the 

administrative municipality. In 

1250 it obtained the citizenship 

of Ascoli, in exchange of keeping 

a citizen of Ascoli Piceno as lord 

of the castle and of an annual 

tribute to the Palio, in the anniversary 

of St. Emidio. Today, 

the municipality has 27 hamlets 

which depends on Balzo, seat of 

the Municipal government, hosted 

in the 17 th century Town Hall 

Palace. 


As evidence of its noble past you 

can see a Shrine by the Church of 

St. Maria in Lapide, an old Farfense 

Church, nestled in the 

bushes between Balzo and Fonditore, 

the Church of St. Maria in 

Pantano, better known as the 

Church of Sibille for the Bonfini’s 

frescoes of the 17 th century, 

dedicated to these mysterious female 

figures, the Churches of St. 

MONTEGALLO 

Bernardino and St. Angelo, with 

a portal of the 16 th century. Worth 

visiting is also the temple dedicated 

to Madonna in the hamlet 

Collicello, the Museum of Rural 

Civilization in the hamlet Uscerno 

and the Monastery of St. 

Francesco in the hamlet Corsara. 


DISCOVER 

The C.E.A. (Centre for Environmental 

Education) is very active; 

its seat is located in Palazzetto 

Branconio (17 th century) and 

manages the territory, including 

the Taliani pinewood and a naturalist 

path. 

WORTH TASTING 

Worth remembering is the production 

of honey in the hamlet 

Acetito, excellent dishes based 

on local mushrooms, lamb and 

wild boar meat. 



available: a soccer field, an outdoor 

pool and a children’s playground 

in the pine forest 

equipped with recreational facilities. 


The territory, characterized by 

numerous sources of mineral water, 

is rich in a particular and unusual 

flora: hornbeam, fir, maple, 

oak, chestnut, pine, daffodils, 

tulips, edelweiss and gentian. 

Worth visiting is the House of 

Blessed Marco in Fonditore. The 

place is ideal for naturalistic 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

MONTEGALLO 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

trips: 30km of paths on horseback, 

by mountain bike and on 

foot. In particular, there are interesting 

paths in direction of Santa 

Maria in Pantano to the top of the 

Mount Vettore, or to the Mount 

Sibilla, the Pit of Colleluce 

(source Fluvione), the sandstone 

cliff in Corbara, the valley of 

Pantano, the Mill of Uscerno and 

the famous Trail of reapers (Sentiero 

dei mietitori). 


Festa patronale di S. Bernardino 


Bernardino) - 20 th May; Fiera in 

frazione Balzo (Fair In the hamlet 

Balzo) - 12 th August; Fiera 

del miele (Honey fair) in the 

hamlet Abetito - September; Raduno 

dei cavalli (Horse meeting) 

in the hamlet Colle - August/September; 

patronal festivals in the 

different hamlets in summer; Sagra 

della Castagna (Chestnut 

festival) in the hamlet Uscerno - 

October. 

113


MONTEMONACO 




Distance from 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0736.856141 


Phone: +39 0736.844526 

+39 0736.844379 


Phone: +39 0737.972711 

www.provincia.ap.it/Montemonaco 

com.montemonaco@provincia.ap.it 


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Sited close to the Sibillini Mountains, 

Montemonaco owes its 

name to its origin: in the Middle 

Ages a Benedictine monk found 

refuge on this hill. In the 9 th century 

a Benedictine fortification 

was founded. At the end of the 

13 th century the rural settlements 

at the foot of the Sibillini Mounts 

decided to join in an free municipality 

and chose Montemonaco, 

the mountain of the Monk, as 

capital, due to its strategic position, 

peaking at the centre of the 

area, thus easy to defend. To protect 

their freedom, the inhabitants 

of Montemonaco built the 

castle walls, interspersed by robust 

towers. In vain Francesco 

Sforza and Niccolò Piccinino 

tried to subdue the village and 

some neighbouring towns, including 

Arquata del Tronto, 

Montefortino, Montegallo and 

Norcia. 


The historic centre is a slice of 

medieval life: the remains of the 

ancient Rocca (13 th century) and 

the three remaining towers are 

work of Lombard master masons; 

the Church of St. Giovanni 

Battista dates back to the 14 th 

century. It preserves a piece of 

the Virgin of Soccorso by Giulio 

Vergari (1521). The Church of St. 

Biagio (15 th century) and the 

church of St. Benedetto (6 th century) 

are rich in works of art: in 

the last one you can appreciate a 

portal, dated 1546, and inside a 

fresco attributed to the school of 

Crivelli, a Crucifix, carved in 

polychrome wood, and a precious 

reliquary of the goldsmith 

Cristoforo from Norcia. The 

Town Hall, built in 1549 on Cardinal 

Farnese’s commission, is 

the basement of the 14 th century 

Civic Tower. 


DISCOVER 

Hiking excursions will take you 

to Mount Sibilla or Mount Vettore: 

don’t miss visiting the mysterious 

Fairies’Cave or the small 

lake of Pilate, a place, that inspired 

ancient legends; characteristic 

is its glasses shape and it is 

famous for the presence of Chirocephalus 

Marchesonii, a small 

crustacean, found in 1954 by Professor 

Marchesoni, which makes 

waters red during summer times. 

WORTH TASTING 


have to remember: sausages, the 

mutton of Montemonaco, trout, 

cheese, porcini mushrooms, truffles, 

chestnuts, different dishes 

based on polenta, rabbit, poultry 

and wild boar, local cakes, the 

wines of the hills of Ascoli and 

the traditional vincotto (literally 

cooked wine). 


As second highest town in the 

Marche it is a healthy place for 

holiday and a great starting point 

for excursions on the Sibillini 

Mountains. It is also ideal for 

fishing, horse riding, mountain 

biking and for skiing excursions 

in winter. 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

MONTEMONACO 

ASCOLI PICENO 


There are numerous floristic protected 

areas. Extensive wideleaved 

tree forests cover the 

mountain slopes. On the Mount 

Banditello you can find beech 

forests with centuries-old trees. 

The edelweiss and the eagle are 

still to see on the peaks of the 

Mount Sibilla and the Mount Vettore. 

The Monti Guarnieri Park, 

which overlooks the village, is a 

green area with secular trees. 

Worth visiting are the different 

hamlets of the territory: Tofe, 

Rocca, Foce, Rascio, Vallegrascia 

with the Church of St. Lorenzo, 

Isola di S. Biagio with the suggestive 

Gerosa Lake and the ancient 

Church of S. Giorgio and Altino, 

the highest settlement of the eastern 

side of Sibillini. The territory 

is included in the Sibillini Mountains 

National park. 


Festa della Befana (Befana’s festival 

- Befana is a old lady character 

of the Italian folklore) - 6 th 

January; Festa di San Sebastiano 

(Feast of St. Sebastiano) - 20 th 

January, Festa del Patrono S. 

Benedetto da Norcia (Feast of the 

Patron Saint St. Benedetto da 

Norcia) with donkey parade - August; 

Sagra mercato delle 

castagne (Chestnut Trade-Festival) 

with sale of local products, 

accompanied with hot mulled 

wine - last Sunday in October); 

Presepe vivente (Staging of the 

nativity) - late December/early 

January.





Distance from 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0736.362142 


Phone: +39 0736.251747 

www.provincia.ap.it/Palmiano 

com.palmiano@provincia.ap.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

The origins of its name are uncertain: 

the most likely hypothesis 

is that the name refers to 

the geographic conditions, as 

the surrounding hills have the 

shape of the palm of a hand 

(Palmi Manus). We don’t know 

anything precise about its origins, 

because the municipal 

archive was destroyed in 1799 

because of a fire. However, the 

different architectural evidences, 

typical of the Benedictine 

Order, suggests that the village 

was likely founded by 

these monks. 


For the charming streets of the 

centre you can still feel the 

past: several arches, portals and 

stone architraves are still to see. 

Interesting is the structure of 

the parish Church of St. Maria 

delle Grazie; built over an existing 

tower. It contains many 

frescoes and an altar dedicated 

to St. Michele Arcangelo. 

WORTH TASTING 

The main local products are: 

mushrooms and valuable truffles. 

Excellent grilled meat, 

tasty sausages and pecorino 

cheese 




sports ground and indoor 

boules (Bocce) rinks. 


The landscape is of a unique 

PALMIANO 

and intense beauty: wood overlooking 

the cultivated fields 

and wonderful natural chromatic 

effects, especially in Autumn. 

The village rises on a hill 

overlooking a deep valley between 

the valleys of Fluvione 

and Chiaro, in a stunningly 

beautiful natural environment, 

suitable for walking and mountain 

biking. 

Worth mentioning is the ancient 

fortress of Castel San 

Pietro, once called Belvedere 

Castle, belonging to the system 

of Ascoli. It still preserves parts 

of the ancient ring walls. The 

parish church contains interesting 

figured capitals; nearby is 

the Church of the Madonna di 

Valle Fornaci (16 th century). 

Worth visiting in Pedara is the 

squared Tower, that retains 

traits of the influence of the 

Benedictine culture. An apsidiole, 

immersed in the vegetation 

of the Mount Vettore, is what 

remains of an ancient church, 

where the Brotherhood of the 

Holy Sacrament was founded 

in 1632. 


Festa della Santa Croce (Feast 

of the Holy Cross) - second 

Sunday in May; Sagra degli 

“Spitilli, (Festival of Spitilli”, 

skewers of mutton) - last Sunday 

in July; Festa in onore della 

Madonna (Feast in honour of 

the Madonna) in the hamlet 

Castel San Pietro - 15 th August; 

Sagra della Patata (Potato Festival) 

- first Sunday in Septem- 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

PALMIANO 

ber; Festa del Patrono San 

Michele Arcangelo (Feast of 

the Patron Saint, St. Michele 

Arcangelo) - last Sunday in 

September. 

115



Altitude 395 


Distance from 


i 

Town hall: 

Phone: +39 0736.374122 


Phone: +39 0736.844526 

+39 0736.844379 

www.provincia.ap.it/Rotella 

com.rotella@libero.it 

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CARAVAN SITES 

YOUTH HOSTELS 

MOUNTAIN DEWS 

Rotella lies at the foot of the 

Mount Ascensione, known as 

Monte Nero in ancient times, 

due to its thick woods and chestnut 

groves. There are three hypothesis 

about the origins of its 

name: the round shape of the 

ground, the name of the Roman 

consul Rutilio, or the kneecap 

“rotula”, term used for an ancient 

shield. Two rivers flow 

across the town, the Tesino River 

and the Oste stream. The origin 

of this small town dates 

1204, founded by the Benedictine 

monks. It is mentioned as 

one of the Farfensi possessions 

of St. Vittoria in Matenano. In 

1357 the Cardinal Albornoz in 

the Egidiane Constitutions considered 

it among the towns, that 

have always belonged to the 

Farfense Abbey. Following the 

reforms, implemented in response 

to the Council of Trento, 

it was assigned to the diocese of 

Ripatransone in 1571. 


In the charming historic centre 

you can visit the Civic Clock 

Tower (15 th century), historic 

bell tower of the Church of S. 

Maria, that collapsed in 1755, 

the Baroque Church of SS. 

Maria and Lorenzo (18 th century); 

inside are a polychrome terracotta 

Pietà, made in the 15 th 

century and a marble bust of the 

Eternal Father; the big Church 

of St. Viviana, known as 

Madonna dell’Icona (18 th century) 

for a polychrome plaster 

of the 16 th century representing 

ROTELLA 

the Virgin with Child; the 

Church houses the Diocesan 

Museum of Sacred Art. Worth 

visiting are also Poggio Canosa, 

ancient medieval village, with 

the harmonious parish church of 

S. Lucia, which preserves four 

precious paintings by Pietro 

Alemanno and where you can 

visit a Naturalistic Museum; 

Castel di Croce, typical medieval 

town, with its impressive 

tower, in a strategic and 

panoramic position, and the 

beautiful Church of St. Severino; 

Capradosso, famous for the 

Oratory of Verdiente with frescoes 

of 14 th century, the Sanctuary 

of Montemisio with an old 

oak tree and the characteristic 

Church of San Rocco. 


DISCOVER 

The magical Mount Ascensione, 

covered with woods, inspired 

lots of legends. Worth 

visiting is also the new part of 

the town, with buildings, that 

show a lively economy with important 

food and leather production. 


There are floristic protected areas: 

together with the Mount Ascensione, 

the territory includes 

other protected floristic areas, 

like chestnuts groves a, Bosco di 

Rovetino, with oaks, hornbeam, 

maple, manna ashes, mushrooms 

and many paths. Worth 

seeing is the natural phenomenon 

of “Vulcanelli” of mud, that 

URBINO 

PESARO 

ANCONA 

MACERATA 

FERMO 

ROTELLA 

ASCOLI PICENO 

occurs in the countryside of 

Rotella during the months of 

September and October. 


Fiera del 1 maggio (Fair of the 

1 st of May) - 1 st May; Sagre gastronomiche 

e serate danzanti 

(Folk dancing and gastronomic 

festivals) - July and August; 

Festa della Beata M. A. Pallotta 

(Feast of the Blessed M.A. Pallotta) 

commemorating the miracle 

of the fountain that pours 

wine - August; Festa e Fiera di 

S. Lorenzo (Feast and Fair of St. 

Lorenzo) - 10 th August; Festa 

Madonna della Consolazione 

(Feast of the Madonna della 

consolazione) at the Sanctuary 

of Montemisio - 15 th August; 

Processione delle Canestrelle 

(Procession of the Canestrelle) - 

second Sunday in August; Festa 

di Santa Viviana (Feast of St. Viviana) 

- last Sunday in August; 

Sagra della castagna (Chestnut 

Festival) of the Mount Ascensione 

- October.

San Benedetto del Tronto (AP) 

Conero Riviera (AN) 

Macerata - Arena Sferisterio 

Monti Sibillini National Park 

(Mt. Palazzo Borghese) 

Villa Potenza (MC) - Remains of 

the ancient Helvia Ricina 

Ascoli Piceno - The “Quintana” 

Marche Hinterland 

Genga (AN) - Frasassi Caves 

Ancona - Cathedral of San Ciriaco 

Jesi (AN) - Pergolesi Theater 

Loreto (AN) - Piazza della Madonna 

Urbino (PU) - Church of San 

Bernardino 

Ascoli Piceno - Palazzo 

del Capitano del Popolo 

Fermo - The Dome 

Pesaro - Rossini Opera Festival

MARCHE: ITALY IN ONE REGION 

“If we wanted to indicate the most typical landscape, 

we would indicate the Marche…Italy, with its 

landscapes, is the essence of the world; the Marche 

of Italy.” 

G. Piovene, Viaggio in Italia, 1957 

180 km of coast, beautiful beaches, 26 centres 

situated by the Adriatic Sea where you can spend 

relaxing holydays, Ancona harbours and 9 tourism 

ports, 500 squares, more than 1000 important 

monuments, a hundred art cities, thousand of 

churches and 200 of them of Romanesque Style, 183 

sanctuaries, 34 archeological sites, 73 historic 

theatres. Greatest density, in Italy, of museums and 

picture galleries: 400 out of 239 centres, 315 libraries 

that keep more than 4 million books. Numerous 

protected areas: 2 national parks (Monti Sibillini, 

Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga), 4 regional parks 

(Monte Conero, Sasso Simone and Simoncello, 

Monte San Bartolo, Gola della Rossa and Frasassi), 5 

natural reserves (Abbadia di Fiastra, Gola del Furlo, 

Montagna di Torricchio, Ripa Bianca and Sentina), 

more than 100 areas of flowers, 15 state forests. 

Initiative cofinanced by European Regional 

Development Fund – ERDF and the National 

cofinancing under the framework of the Objective 

2 SPD 2000-2006 Marche Region 

EUROPEAN UNION REPUBBLICA ITALIANA 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

14 

15 

SANSEPOLCRO 

A B C D E F G H I L M 

CESENA 

CASTELDELCI 

TOSCANA 

AREZZO 

TALAMELLO 

SANT'AGA TA FELTRIA 

BORGO PACE 

PENNABILLI 

EMILIA-ROMAGNA 

NOVAFELTRIA 

LAMOLI 

S.S. 258 

MAIOLO 

MONTECOPIOLO 

CARPEGNA 

CITTÀ DI CASTELLO 

ROMA 

S.LEO 

BELFORTE ALL'ISAURO 

RIMINI 


MONTE GRIMANO 


PIETRARUBBIA MACERA TA FELTRIA 

FRONTINO 

MERCATELLO 

SUL METAURO 

APECCHIO 

LEGENDA 

1 - Porto Turistico 

2 - Spiaggia di sabbia 

3 - Spiaggia con ghiaia 

4 - Spiaggia mista (scoglio e ghiaia) 

5 - Spiaggia mista (sabbia e ghiaia) 

6 - Area protetta 

Autostrade 

Superstrade 

Strade Statali 

Altre strade importanti 

Ferrovie dello Stato 

Linee navigazione 

Aeroporto 

LUNANO 

PIANDIMELETO 

S.S. 73 BIS 

SANT'ANGELO IN VADO 

SASSOFELTRIO 

SASSOCORVARO 

PEGLIO 

PIOBBICO 

URBANIA 

UMBRIA 

MILANO 

BOLOGNA 

RIMINI 

TAVOLETO 

AUDITORE 

MONTECALVO IN FOGLIA 

S.S. 257 

CANTIANO 

GUBBIO 

PERUGIA 

ROMA 

URBINO 

ACQUALAGNA 

FERMIGNANO 

CAGLI 

GRADARA 

TAVULLIA 

COLBORDOLO 

PETRIANO 


GABICCE MARE 

GUBBIO 

PERUGIA 

ROMA 

FOSSOMBRONE 

FRONTONE 

COME ARRIVARE 

S.S. 423 

GABICCE MONTE 

VALLUGOLA 

FIORENZUOLA DI FOCARA 

PASSO NOCERA UMBRA 

DEL CORNELLO 

CASTELLEONE DI SUASA 

A B C D E F G H I L M 

MONTELABBATE 

SANT'ANGELO IN LIZZOLA 

MONTECICCARDO 

SERRUNGARINA 

MONTEFELCINO 

PERGOLA 

SERRA S. ABBONDIO 

SASSOFERRATO 

AUTOSTRADA A14 

LINEE FERROVIARIE 

Milano, Bologna, Ancona, Lecce, 

Roma, Falconara M., Ancona 

AEROPORTO 

Raffaello Sanzio, Ancona/Falconara M. 

PORTO DI ANCONA 

FOLIGNO 

ROMA 

SANTA MARINA AL TA 

MOMBAROCCIO 

CARTOCETO 

SALTARA 

SANT'IPPOLITO 

PESARO 

ORCIANO DI PESARO 

BARCHI 

FRATTE ROSA 

S. LORENZO IN CAMPO 

S.S. 424 

S.S. 8 

S.S. 76 

MONTEMAGGIO RE AL M. 

PIAGGE 

ARCEVIA 

PIORACO 

MONTECAVALLO 

TERNI 

FANO 

S. COSTANZO 

S. GIORGIO DI PESARO 

MONTEPORZIO 

BARBARA 

MONDOLFO 

CORINALDO 

SERRA DE' CONTI 

MONTERADO 

CASTELCOLONNA 

RIPE 

OSTRA VETERE 

MONTECAROTTO 

BELVEDERE 

OSTRENSE 

A14 

OSTRA 

POGGIO S. MARCELLO 

FIASTRA 

LAZIO 

STAFFOLO 


MONTEMARCIANO 

MONTE S. VITO 

S. MARCELLO 

MONSANO 

CASTELPLANIO 

CASTELBELLIN O 

ROSORA 

MONTE ROBERTO 

MAIOLATI SPONTINI 

MERGO 

S. PAOLO DI JESI 

CUPRAMONTANA 

SERRA S. QUIRICO 

GENGA 

FAB RIANO 

ESANATOGLIA 

FIUMINATA 

MONDAVIO 

GROTTE DI 

FRASASSI 

SEFRO 


CERRETO D'ESI 

MATELICA 

S.S. 256 

S.S. 361 

MUCCIA 

PIEVETORINA 

S.S. 209 

MADONNA DEL PONTE 

METAURILIA 

TORRETTE DI FANO 

S.S. 256 

APIRO 

POGGIO S. VICINO 

GAGLIOLE 

CASTELRAIMONDO 

CAMERINO 

FIORDIMONTE 

S.S. 209 

VISSO 

MAROTTA 

S.S. 360 

CESANO 

SERRAPETRONA 


MORRO D'ALBA 

S.S. 502 

ACQUACANINA 

USSITA 

SENIGALLIA 

JESI 

CINGOLI 

S. SEVERINO MARCHE 

BOLOGNOLA 

CHIARA VALLE 

S.S. 76 

TOLENTINO 

MARZOCCA 

ROMA 

CAMERA TA PICENA 

POLVERIGI 

S. MARIA NUOV A 

APPIGNANO 

TREIA 

S.S. 361 

SARNANO 

S.S. 362 

S.S. 76 

FILOTTRANO 

URBISAGLIA 

COLMURANO 

MONTEFOR TINO 

MONTEMONACO 


S.S. 77 

ARQUA TA DEL TRONTO 

MARINA DI MONTEMARCIANO 

FALCONARA M.MA 

AGUGLIANO 

S.S. 362 

POLLENZA 

MONTEGALLO 

PAL OMBINA 

TORRETTE 

S.S. 77 

A14 

OFFAGNA 

OSIMO 

MONTEFANO 

CASTEL ELFIDARDO 

MONTECASSISIANO 

LORO PICENO 

MACCERATA 

PETRI RIOLO 

MOGLIANO NO 

MONTE S. MARTINO 

S. VITTORIA IN MATENA ANO 

AMANDOLA 

S.S. 361 

SMERILLO 

ACQUASANTA 

TERME 

S.S. 777 

COMUNANZAA 

PA ALMIANO 

ROCCAFLUVION NE 

N O P Q 

ANCONA 

TRAVE 

CAMERANO 

MONTEFALCONE 

M 

APPENNINO 

A 

FORCE 

LORETO 

CORRIDONIA 

MONTE SAN G IUSTO 

FRANCAVILLA D'ETE 

MASSA FERMANA 

RECANATI 

CROAZIA 

SIROLO 

NUMANA 

POTENZA PICENA 

MONTELUPONE 

MONTECOSARO 

MORROVALLE 

MONTE S. PIETRANGELI 

RAPAGNANO 

FOLIGNANO 

PORTO RECANATI 

CIVITANOVA 

ALTA 

MONTEGRANARO 

TORRE S. PATRIZIO 

MAGLIANO DI TE NNA 

CASTEL DI LAMA 

TERAMO 

ABRUZZO 

N O P Q 

GRECIA 

TURCHIA - CIPRO - ISRAELE 

CIVITANOVA MARCHE 

SANT'ELPIDIO A MARE 

MONTE URANO 

FERMO 

MALTIGNANO 

PORTO SANT'ELPIDIO 

PORTO SAN GIORGIO 

CALDAROLA 

RIPE S. GINESIO 

MONTAPPONE 


LAPEDONA 


MONTEGIORGIO 

GROTTAZZOLINA 

S. GINESIO 

FALERONE 

ALTIDONA 


CESSAPALOMBO 

MONTERUBBIANO 

BELMONTE 

PICENO 

MONTE GIBER 

SANT'ANGELO IN P ONTAN ANO 

TO 

MORESCO 

CAMPOFILONE 

SERVIGLIANOO 

MONSAMPIETRO MORICO 

PETRITOLI 

GUALDO 

MONTOTTONE 

MONTEFIORE DELL'AS O 

PENNA S. GIO VANNI 


MONTELEONE D I FERMO 

MASSIGNANO 

MONTERINALDO 

VENAROTTA 

ORTEZZANO 

MONTELPARO 

MONTALTO DELLE MARCHE 

S.S. 4 

OVEST 

PORTONOVO 

MONTE 

CONERO 

MONTE CONERO 

ROTELLA 

MARCELLI 

S.S. 571 

S.S. 485 

MONTEDINOVE 

CASTIGNANO 

APPIGNANO DE L TRONTO 

ASCOLI PICENO 

S.S. 210 

CARASSAI 

NORD 

PORTO POTENZA PICENA 

FONTESPINA 

COSSIGNANO 

OFFIDA 

SUD 

CASTORANO 

SPINETOLI 

LIDO DI FERMO 

S.S. 433 

COLLI DEL TRONTO 

A14 

PEDASO 

CUPRA MARITTIMA 

RIPATRANSONE GROTTAMMARE 

ACQUAVIVA PICENA 

MONTEPRANDONE 

MARINA PALMENSE 

MONSAMPOLO 

DEL TRONTO 

MARINA DI ALTIDONA 

EST 

PESCARA 

BARI 

S. BENEDETT O 

DEL TRONTO 

PORTO 

D'ASCOLI 

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COORDINATION 

Department of Internationalization and Promotion 

Tourism and Food Promotion Unit 

Sandro Abelardi 

COLLABORATIONS 

Laura Capozucca 

Bianca Maria Giombetti 

Stefano Gregori 

SVIM - Sviluppo Marche S.p.A. 

PHOTO 

Marche Region Archive 

FREE DISTRIBUTION 

© Edition 2009

60125 ANCONA - Via Gentile da Fabriano, 9 

www.turismo.marche.it 

www.le-marche.com 

www.die-marche.com 

www.italy-marche.info 

turismo.promozione@regione.marche.it 

Free number 800-222111 (only from Italy)

ANCIENT VILLAGES

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