Ten top historical towns to explore in Le Marche
Italy is widely renowned for its ability to preserve and celebrate history. Every little village and town, it seems, has a special story to tell about its past. It could be a religious relic, a natural event around which a myth has sprung, or something else entirely. We think of Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan when we think of these cultural powerhouse cities but, a little off the beaten track, you’ll find an absolute treasure trove of history to uncover in Le Marche. Below you’ll find some of Trek & Taste’s top destinations for history buffs and those looking to step back in time.
A view of Acquaviva Picena
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Why visit Ancona?
The capital of the Marche region, Ancona was founded by Syracusean colonists, from Sicily, and bears many of the hallmarks of their occupation there. It was, in its day, a major Roman port city, and was highly favoured by Emperor Trajan. It even has its own Trajan’s column, similar in stature and grandeur to the famous one in Rome. At the harbour, you’ll find the town’s stand-out feature: Mole Vanvitelliana - a large pentagonal military fortification, which makes for some fascinating exploration. In addition, you can make your way from there to Chiesa di San Ciriaco, which offers layer upon layer of history; a 12th-century church, which incorporates a 5th-century basilica. Fascinating.
What is there to see in Urbino?
The birthplace of world-famous artist Raphael, Urbino offers the chance to step back in time and discover a perfectly-preserved slice of 15th century history. In the centre, you can discover the Palazzo Ducale, a UNESCO World Heritage site, brimming with stunning architectural features and artwork from the region’s profound history. You can also take a look at Raphael’s house, to see where he spent some of his earlier years. The site has been transformed into a museum and even features an original fresco painted by the man himself. Well worth a visit.
La Piazza del Popolo in Ascoli on a very rainy day
What is there to do in Ascoli Piceno?
The capital of the Ascoli region in Le Marche, the city of Ascoli Piceno offers up a microcosm of the very best that the region has to offer. Walk charming city streets, find hidden bars and restaurants in back streets, or enjoy the view of the city, the river Tronto and sprawling mountains behind, from the Ponte Nuevo bridge. If you’re peckish, head to Migliore, for some of the best Olive Ascolane (what’s that?) you’ll find anywhere and, on particularly hot days, head down to the Torrente Castellano, for a dip in crystal-clear, cool water. Lean back, relax and thank your lucky stars that you’re in Italy right now.
The river Tronto runs by Ascoli Piceno
Reasons to visit Fano
The largest Roman settlement on the Adriatic coast, Fano offers the chance to pair a history lover’s paradise with the classic Italian beach holiday. The story of Fano dates back almost 2000 years, having been founded by the mighty Julius Caesar himself. As you might expect, it’s packed with remnants of the city’s Roman past, including an Augustan arch, and a variety of deconsecrated and active churches. When you’ve had your fill of Roman beauty, head down to one of the blue-flag beaches, kick your sandals off, and go for a dip. Paradise.
La Piazza della Madonna in Loreto
Why make the pilgrimage to Loreto?
The draw of this particular town, besides the charming side streets and towering city walls is the Basilica della Santa Casa, literally meaning “Basilica of the Holy House.” The Holy house, in this instance, sits in the very centre of the basilica and has quite a story to it. Make your way in and you’ll find a grand marble construction, covered with friezes and statues. Within that, right in the centre of this incredibly beautiful, highly detailed church, you’ll find a very simple brick building, with barely any decoration whatsoever. As the story goes, this is the house of Mary, mother of Jesus Christ, herself, transported by angelic beings from the Holy land of Jerusalem and placed atop the hill of Loreto. Whether you believe it or not is up to you, but the story is fascinating and the church is undeniably beautiful. If you’re in the area, it’s well worth making the pilgrimage yourself!
The Basilica della Santa Casa in Loreto
The best things to do in Macerata
The quintessentially Italian hill town, Macerata was founded in the 12th century, rebuilt from the broken pieces of Roman rule. Featuring countless classical monuments, churches and buildings, the town has so much to offer visitors. You can ascend the 64-metre tall Torre Civica, a clock tower with a balcony, from which you can look out across the town and the beautiful surroundings (beware: there are 200 steps leading up to the top and, regrettably, no disabled access). One thing you can’t miss is the Palazzo dei Diamanti - a stunning palace, named for its chiselled stonework on the exterior, which is designed to appear diamond-encrusted.
Why take a trip to Pesaro?
A designated UNESCO Creative City of Music, not to mention Italian Capital of Culture for 2024, Pesaro has played home to a number of composers, artists and other famous creators of Italian history. The most famous of these is Gioacchino Rossini, famed composer of 39 operas and countless classical pieces of music, such as the WIlliam Tell overture. Have a listen and tell us you don’t recognise it!
What is there to see in Gradara?
Technically a village, rather than a town or city, we just couldn’t help but mention it due to its stunning fortifications. The entire village is essentially one big walled castle, appropriately named Castello di Gradara, or Gradara Castle. Beginning construction in the 12th century, it took almost three centuries to complete and is utterly breathtaking. The village is counted among “I Borghi più belli d'Italia.” Put simply, “one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.”
The ceiling of the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Offida
Why take a trip to Offida?
A bit of a hidden gem, tucked away toward the south of Le Marche, Offida is the traditional home of lace-making. You’ll find little nods to their rich history throughout the town, as well as the beloved Ciu Ciu winery, which produces some of the finest wines in the region. The city features a number of stunning churches, including, in the central town square, the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta - a relatively unassuming building housing some stunning decoration! In addition, you can visit the Teatro Serpente Aureo (Theatre of the golden snake) to see the beautiful art deco decoration within, and get some delicious food at the cantina as well.
A bottle of wine from Ciu Ciu outside the Teatro Serpente Aureo
Things to do in Jesi
Jesi is famed for its Verdicchio wine - a real Marche staple and central Italy’s answer to Sauvignon Blanc. Beyond a refreshing glass of white, you’ll find the footprints of Holy Roman Emperor Federico II across the town, as it was his birthplace! Take a stroll through the Piazza di Federico II, before wandering round the fantastically-maintained medieval city walls. The town is such a time capsule of days gone by - a time machine well worth stepping into!
Have you taken a walk through any of the towns or cities above? Which ones caught your eye? If you’re inspired, it’s time to grab your suitcase and start packing for your trip! Take a look at our ultimate packing checklist and get those tickets booked. See you there!
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