Italy’s central region of Le Marche on the Adriatic Sea is well known for its diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches, picturesque mountain scenery and, above all, is celebrated for its history, fascinating culture and authentic cuisine.
Steeped in history, Italy’s artistic splendour can be found throughout this charming area with so many UNESCO sites, examples of the finest Renaissance art, palaces and Romanesque churches. The area is also known for centres of outstanding artisanal craftmanship such as papermaking, shoe-making and ceramics.
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Pesaro is a fascinating coastal city, famous for being a UNESCO Creative City of Music, Culture and Art with many museums and galleries displaying treasured artwork and artefacts.
Gradara (& Castle) is a picturesque fortified medieval village with stunning views and many hidden gems within its winding ancient alleyways. The village’s fascinating historic and artistic heritage is reflected in its monuments and architecture as well as the impressive castle featuring spectacular and ornate frescoes and paintings.
San Marino a UNESCO historic centre is the world’s oldest republic with several towns dotted around the mountainside, again offering breathtaking views. Boasting a vast array of ancient churches and monuments to fascinating museums, visitors can immerse themselves in its art, culture and history. Enjoy browsing its speciality shops for unique souvenirs or watch the world go by at one of the numerous cafes and bars lining the streets.
Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most important centres of the Italian Renaissance, and its beautiful architectural heritage is still well preserved. The unique sandstone walled city known for the turreted, 15th-century Palazzo Ducale is home to the National Gallery of the Marche, featuring paintings by local famous artists Titian and Raphael.
National Gallery
The world-renowned Renaissance art collections of Le Marche’s National Gallery are on display in the spectacular Urbino’s Ducal Palace including works by Raphael and Titian.
The Ducal Palace was built for the Montefeltro family and dates back to the 1400s. Added to over the centuries, the Renaissance architecture includes fairy-tale twin turrets, a splendid study, a vast library of illuminated manuscripts as well as the Chapel of Forgiveness and a Banqueting Hall.
Casa Natale di Raffaello is the birthplace of famous Renaissance artist Raphael. Now a museum, it houses copies of his incredible works of art including Madonna of the chair and Ezekiel’s Vision as well as a fresco of Madonna and Child. Other artists’ work on display include Annunciation by Giovanni Santi. The upper floor houses historic manuscripts, rare editions, coins and commemorative 19th-century portraits.
Oratory of San Giovanni – the small 14th century red-brick church which features a series of late Gothic style frescoes by the brothers Lorenzo and Giacomo Salimbeni include a depiction of the crucifixion and the life of St John the Baptist.
Ancona – capital city of Le Marche, Ancona is also a seaport with magnificent views over the Adriatic Sea and known for its Passetto Beach and the hilltop cathedral of San Ciriaco. This vibrant city features many attractions including an historical centre with art treasures and centuries-old architecture waiting to be explored. Learn about its fascinating history in the City Museum or stroll along the streets for glimpses of Venetian Gothic-styled buildings of the Loggia del Mercanti. For scenic sea views head for the Cardeto Park, close to the city centre.
Loreto and Basilica of Loreto – the splendid city of Loreto bordering the Adriatic Sea and surrounded by the lush green landscapes of the Marche region is famed for the ornate Renaissance-era marbled Basilica and the Holy House of the Virgin Mary of Nazareth. Both a majestic Basilica and 15th century fortress, it is home to incredible artworks by esteemed artists.
Medieval Faenza is quietly idyllic, known best for its ceramic tradition known as faience. As well as being a centre of pottery production for hundreds of years, this pretty town has an ancient heart with an exquisite cathedral, an extraordinary clock tower and lively local markets.
Palazzo Milzetti – home to the National Museum of the Neoclassical Age. The building was owned by the Milzetti family since the early 1600s and is one of the most important neoclassical residences in Italy. Beautiful architecture, painting and sculpture are combined under one roof.
Ceramics Museum – the town of Faenza is a world-famous centre for ceramics and the museum, founded in 1908 houses pieces of ceramic art from around the world throughout history. A large section is dedicated to Faentine ceramics of the Renaissance period.
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