Culture in Le Marche
Culture
Le Marche has a rich and fascinating cultural heritage. The region has been shaped by centuries of history: from the Piceni and Romans to the Byzantines, Lombards, Franks, the Papal States, Napoleon, and again the Papal States – until it became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.
You’ll find traces of these periods throughout the region, in museums, churches, and pinacotecas (art galleries). Many medieval towns are beautifully preserved, complete with castles, city walls, and historic buildings.
Historic towns to visit during your holiday in Le Marche
Ascoli Piceno
The capital of the province of the same name in southern Le Marche is a charming old town at the foot of the mountains. Its historic centre takes you right back in time. Ascoli Piceno is especially known for Piazza del Popolo, often called one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Don’t miss Caffè Meletti, a famous art nouveau café on the square.
Fermo
Fermo is a stunning medieval town perched 319 metres above sea level, on a hill called Girofalco. At the highest point of the old town stands the cathedral, surrounded by a park with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, the sea and the mountains. The old centre is lively and authentic, with a welcoming piazza, terraces and lots of small shops.
Macerata
Macerata is a beautiful town with historic buildings, narrow alleyways and atmospheric squares. It is best known for its open-air theatre, where the Macerata Opera Festival takes place every July and August. Attending a performance is highly recommended – just be sure to book early! Even outside the festival season, the Arena Sferisterio is well worth a visit.
More info about the Macerata Open-Air Opera Festival
Loreto
Set on a hill near the coast of Ancona, Loreto is one of Italy’s most important pilgrimage sites. Each year, millions of pilgrims visit the grand basilica, which, according to tradition, houses the Holy House of the Virgin Mary – a small sacred dwelling located right in the centre of the church.
Ascoli Piceno, the capital of southern Le Marche, is famous for its stunning Piazza del Popolo and the iconic art nouveau café Caffè Meletti.
Photo: Destinazione Marche.
Fermo is a beautiful medieval town near the Adriatic Sea, perched at 319 metres. The park surrounding the cathedral offers stunning views of the landscape.
Photo: Destinazione Marche.
Macerata is a beautiful city with historic buildings, charming alleyways and lively squares – best known for its open-air theatre, the Arena Sferisterio.
Photo: Destinazione Marche.
Loreto, beautifully perched on a hill near the coast of Ancona, attracts millions of pilgrims each year to the cathedral that houses the Holy House of the Virgin Mary.
Photo: Carlo Patarca.
Charming villages you shouldn’t miss during your holiday in Le Marche
Ripatransone
Ripatransone – or “Ripa,” as the locals call it – is a small medieval village perched on a hill near the Adriatic coast. Its elevated position offers breathtaking 360-degree views of rolling hills, mountains and the sea.
The old town is a maze of narrow, picturesque streets, perfect for wandering – including Il Cosiddetto Belvedere, the narrowest alley in Italy. There's also a beautiful historic theatre to visit. Stop by the tourist office in the centre to book a guided tour.
Offida
Offida is known as a hub of wine production. The surrounding area is home to some of the region’s top wineries, producing excellent white wines from the Pecorino grape – definitely worth a taste!
The old town is also a delight to explore on foot. On the central square, you'll find a fascinating old theatre, and at the edge of the village, a beautiful church. Day passes to visit all the main sights are available at the local tourist office.
Grottammare
The lovely seaside town of Grottammare has two parts: a modern, lively area by the beach and an enchanting old centre on the hill above. The historic part feels like a step back in time, with quaint streets, cosy squares, lively cafés and local restaurants. The view over the Adriatic Sea is absolutely stunning.
Amandola & Sarnano
If you're up for a scenic drive into the mountains, Amandola and Sarnano are both well worth a visit. These charming villages lie at the foot of the Sibillini Mountains and offer peace, authenticity, and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and natural landscape.
Il Cosiddetto Belvedere in Ripatransone – the narrowest alley in Italy, just 43 cm wide, located in a hilltop village near the Adriatic coast.
Photo: Viva la Casa.
Offida is known as a centre of wine production. The surrounding area is home to some of the region’s finest wineries.
Photo: Viva la Casa.
Grottammare’s old town feels like a step back in time – with narrow streets, charming squares, inviting terraces, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Photo: Viva la Casa.
Amandola sits at the foot of the mountains, offering beautiful views of the Sibillini range. Sarnano is also well worth a visit – a charming historic town with stunning panoramas.
Photo: Destinazione Marche.