Where is the best place to stay in Marche Italy? Marche. How to relax in Marche

Marche – amazing area Italy, although not the first on the list of tourists’ preferences, definitely deserves to be in the top. Beautiful place with its own characteristics and attractions, where you can relax quietly without being distracted by large crowds of travelers. The beaches, climate and infrastructure are in no way inferior to more popular resorts.

General information about the Marche region (Italy)

The Marche region is located in the center of the Adriatic coast of Italy, it is washed from the east by the Adriatic Sea. The mild, warm climate characteristic of this country is also observed here. The area of Marche is 9,366 square kilometers.

Marche (Italy)

Provinces

The region consists of five provinces:

Ancona,
Ascoli Piceno,
Macerata,
Pesaro and Urbino,
Fermo.

Neighboring regions are:

Emilia-Romagna (in the north),
Tuscany (in the northwest),
Umbria (in the west),
Abruzzo (in the south).

Additional Information! The administrative center is the port city of Ancona, which often becomes Starting point for tourists.

How to come to Ancona

You can get there in almost any way: by plane, by ship or by train. As a last resort, you can use the bus - the cheapest, although not very comfortable option. Unfortunately, there are practically no direct flights to Ancona: most likely, you will have to fly with transfers, stopping in cities: most likely in Rome or Munich. But finding transport from these cities to the Marche will not be difficult.

Economy of Marche

The region is primarily famous for its light industry, for example, the production of very good shoes; Marche is also one of the main centers of shipbuilding. The tourist infrastructure is, of course, sufficiently developed to welcome tourists and travelers from all over the world: a large number of well-groomed beaches, many attractions, various hotels and other places for recreation, shopping tours and, of course, unsurpassed Italian flavor in everything.

Port city of Ancona

Sights of the region

There are countless architectural attractions in Marche. In the capital Ancona, the following ancient buildings stand out:

A partially destroyed Roman amphitheater, which could present interesting spectacles to 10 thousand spectators at once. For some time it served as a defensive point, after which it began to be dismantled for building materials. Fortunately, part of this building has survived to this day.
Cathedral Ancona, dedicated to Judas Cyriaco, is the main church of the city and at the same time an important religious monument. Built in the 10th century, it was expanded over three more centuries.
Ancona Citadel - Built in the 16th century on the Astagno hill, the citadel is an old historical defensive structure.

Interesting! Palace of the Elders - interesting building, in which the Council of City Fathers met. It is worth noting that during World War II the building suffered extreme damage.

This is only a small part of the capital's attractions. But other cities of the Marche can also boast interesting places:

The Frasassi Caves, discovered in 1948, are approximately 30 kilometers long. Anyone can look at the beautiful stalagmites and stalactites of this long network of caves - the excursion for tourists runs from 10 to 17 hours every day, the length of the route is one and a half kilometers.
The Castle of the Dukes of Urbino is a small castle built in the city of Urbino by Florentine architects, which, at the behest of Duke Federigo da Montefeltro, was turned into a real palace. Although the fortress was not completed before the Duke’s death, it became a popular cultural attraction in its unfinished form. Nowadays the Dukes' Castle is used as National Gallery Marche.
The Monte Conero Natural Park is located on the Adriatic coast, while it lies on the slopes of the mountain of the same name. Those who decide to take a walk here can see many species of wild plants, as well as animals and birds. Moreover, there are a number of extremely interesting places located here. For example, beautiful churches and unique systems of grottoes and caves.

On a note! One of the main tourist cities Marche - Ascoli Piceno.

Extraordinary beautiful city, most of which is built from travertine, boasts well-kept streets, an interesting architectural style and many attractions. Also worth paying attention to are the cities of Fano and Pesaro. At the same time, it is not necessary to have a lot of money - first of all, vacationers can enjoy walking around the cities, etc.

Castle of the Dukes of Urbino

Excursions

On the Internet you can easily find a Russian guide who will tell you in detail about the places of interest to tourists. The cheapest group excursions cost 40...50 euros* per hour.

Urbino is very popular among lovers of excursions - medieval city, in which such iconic historical monuments as the Castle of the Dukes, Urbino Cathedral, and the Monastery of Santa Chiara were built. It is precisely because of the saturation historical monuments excursions are so popular here.

Important information! Payment is not always hourly! All details must be discussed with the guides in advance.

How to relax in Marche

Despite the large number of attractions, in this region you can not only drive around the cities, looking at the streets and nature. The beach is also well developed here. resort holiday and shopping, many restaurants, lovers active rest have the opportunity to visit local discos. There are both fairly cheap (very decent) hotels and five-star all-inclusive ones.

Large selection of beaches for family vacation will not leave indifferent those who like to swim or just want to lie in the sun. Given the mild, warm climate and beautiful pictures of nature, the Marche coast is in no way inferior to the beaches of other regions of Italy. The most famous of them are: Spiaggia di Velluto, Riviera del Conero, Porto Sant'Elpidio beach and others.

Important information! You need to pay in hotels and when shopping in the country’s currency – the euro.

Coast of Spiaggia di Velluto

Useful information for tourists

The climate in Italy is quite temperate. There is usually no point in taking warm clothes with you, especially in summer. You definitely need sunscreen, otherwise you can spoil your appearance in just a few hours.

Marche is far from the most popular region among tourists, but at the same time you can enjoy this place in the same way as in the most popular resorts. The map of the region is replete with interesting places: this is an excellent option for those who like to explore cities, look at their architectural wonders and want to lie on the spacious and clean beaches.

* Prices are current as of September 2018.

The landscapes of Marche are breathtaking. They were and continue to be sung by poets and writers. What is interesting about this region today?

Geography

Marche is a region located in Central Italy. Its administrative center is Ancona. The city has approximately 100 thousand inhabitants. The region stretches from the Adriatic Sea to the Apennines. It has two climatic zones. So, Northern part The Marche is exposed to cold winds blowing from the northeast, so the climate here is more humid and also cooler. And in the southern part the climate is milder, rather dry. The sea coast has the mildest climate. The territory of the Marche is mainly mountainous. All rivers flowing through it flow into the nearby Adriatic Sea.

Story

The name Marche traces its roots back to the ancient German word “mark”, meaning “border”. This is due to the fact that the territory was the border of the Holy Roman Empire in the 11th century.

Already during the Neolithic period, people began to inhabit the territory of this area. In the 3-2 millennium BC, Greek and Balkan tribes lived here. In the 3rd century BC, the Romans appeared in these parts. They were interested in exercising control over this particular area, since it represented a strategic exit to the Adriatic. At this time, two important roads were built - Salaria and Flaminia. Thanks to them, the coasts of the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian seas. It was at this time that the city of Ancona gained its importance as the most important maritime trading point in the eastern part of the country.

After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the territory went to the Lombards, then for a long time it became part of the Byzantine Empire.

At the end of the 8th century the area became the domain of the church. For many years the coasts have been attacked by Saracen pirates, so the people migrate to the mountainous regions. In the 18th century, the area was occupied by French troops. In 1869 it became part of the Italian state.

Culture

As you know, it is one of the leading states in the world in terms of the scale of cultural and artistic heritage. Proof of this is the Marche region, where the rich nature is complemented by cities, palazzos, churches and cathedrals. A striking example is the Palazzo Ducale in Urbino, a famous monument of Renaissance architecture. Or Loreto, where the Santa Casa is located - the earthly abode of the Virgin Mary, which was transported from Palestine by the crusaders.

Holidays

Every August the three-day Ducal Festival is celebrated in Urbino. The city is filled with the atmosphere of antiquity, because tournaments and battles, historical and gastronomic reconstruction of taverns and tasting of products prepared according to preserved recipes from the Renaissance period take place here. The highlight of the program is a theatrical performance that shows the scene of the celebration of the victory of the troops of Federigo da Montefeltro over the Duke of Milan, Francesco Sforza.

On the first Sunday in September, Ancona celebrates the Festival of the Sea. One of the most important moments The holiday is celebrated with a ceremonial swim of boats decorated with flowers and bright ribbons. It is also a unique way to honor those who have died at sea during accidents, battles or voyages.

Cooking

Fish dishes that will amaze anyone with their variety. It is recommended to try a similar version of Russian fish soup - brodetto. In different provinces of the Marche, recipes differ: brodetto, for example alla Anconitana (Apsopa), alla San Benedetto del Tronto, alla Civitanova Marche. A fragrant dinner will be decorated with a bottle of wine labeled DOC: Falerio dei Colli Ascolani (white), Bianchello del Metauro (white), Rosso Conero (red) or Lacrima di Morro d`Alba (red, province of Ancona).

Brodetto. Photo cucinaitaliana.it

Education

Let’s take a closer look at the Carlo Bo University of Urbino (Università degli Studi di Urbino Carlo Bo). It was founded in 1506, during the reign of the Duke of Urbino, Guidobaldo Montefeltre, known for his passion for education and art. In 2003, the university received the name of Carlo Bo-rector, who made a great contribution to the development of this educational institution. On this moment 17 thousand students study at the university in 10 faculties. Among them we note pedagogical, medical, economic, philosophical and sociological.

Ascoli-Piceno

Economy

The region is located quite far from central Italy, so its economy has lagged behind for a long time. Currently, the production of paper, electronic organs, and fashionable shoes is most developed here. Pharmaceutical, clothing, furniture, petrochemical and some other industries are also developing well.

In the Marche, grain crops are grown, as well as sugar beets and sunflowers. An important sector of the economy is fishing. This is evidenced by the large number of fishing ports. The most famous among them are Pesaro, Civitanova, Fano, San Benedetto del Tronto. More than half of the region's population works in the service and trade sectors.

Ancona Airport (Aeroporto di Ancona-Falconara) serves 400 thousand people annually with the help of 5 airlines. It is 18 km from the center of Ancona. Ancona is considered one of the important strategic ports of the Adriatic Sea. Ferry routes go to Albania, Croatia, Greece and Turkey. The city is located at the intersection of an important railway line - - Ancona - Pescara -. Today there is no railway connection with Urbino. Until 1987, Fano-Urbino operated. The nearest station is in Pesaro. The cost of travel on public transport in Marche is just above 1 euro.

Demography

Marche's population is 1.485 million people (13th place, according to estimates for 2003). Large cities - Ancona (100 thousand inhabitants), Pesaro (90,000), Fano (57,000), Ascoli Piceno (50,000), Macerata (42,000).

Tourism

The most attractive town for tourists is probably the town of Urbino. It is located in the central part of the region. Urbino attracts with its picturesque landscapes and perfectly preserved medieval appearance.

Before you even reach the city, you can enjoy a bewitching, extraordinary panorama: from above it seems like a kind of backdrop for a medieval play. It feels as if a huge palace is floating out of a sea of towers and tiled roofs. This is Palazzo Ducale - a famous monument of Renaissance architecture. It combines a picturesque layout and harmonious lightness. This architectural masterpiece took almost a hundred years to build. Outstanding medieval architects such as Luciano Laurana and Francesco di Giorgio Martini participated in its construction. In addition to this palace, the city has many other attractions.

Due to the fact that the residents of Urbino were very proud of their city, it was even nicknamed “vain Urbino.” It is also known as the “city of mathematicians” because a whole galaxy of remarkable scientists came from here.

Urbino. Photo sharingmyitaly.wordpress.com

Ancona
known as a balneological resort. The Loggia Mercanti has been the symbol of the city since the 15th century. Despite the fires, the Italians were able to preserve the original style of this building. The spirit of past eras is felt in the picturesque enfilades and all kinds of bas-reliefs. The city has many monuments of antiquity, as well as the Middle Ages. Among them, special attention is required Triumphal Arch Trajan (built in the early 2nd century AD). It is one of the symbols of the city. Its grandeur is only emphasized by the almost complete absence of bas-reliefs and the grayish color of the marble. The Roman amphitheater, or rather its ruins, is no less attractive to tourists. Also notable are the Romanesque Cathedral, Mole Vanvitelliana, Diocesan Museum, etc.

Ancona. Photo pixabay.com

Macerata
Macerata is an equally interesting city for tourists in the Marche region. It is located near the sea, which gives it additional charm. The city is famous for its university. This is one of the oldest universities not only in Italy, but throughout Europe. In Macerata, you should definitely visit the Arena Sferisterio, where the opera festival, famous throughout the world, is held annually. It is necessary to separately emphasize the Diamond Palace, which is a delightful building of the Renaissance. Also incredibly beautiful are the churches of Santa Maria della Porta and Madonna della Misericordi.

Macerata. Photo sharingmyitaly.wordpress.com

Pesaro is a city with ancient history and aristocratic traditions. First of all, it is known as the birthplace of the outstanding composer Gioachino Rossini. Works here in memory of him memorial museum, and the opera house that bears his name annually hosts a grand festival of opera performers. Amazes with its magnificence main square Pesaro called Popolo. Here you can’t help but admire the sparkling fountain made of unique sculptures of newts and sea horses. The military fortress, built in the 15th century, attracts visitors with its grandeur. Not far from it is the Cathedral. The ancient mosaic floors have been preserved in it to this day. And the Museum of Ceramics invites you to get acquainted with the bizarre, unique pottery of local craftsmen. If this is not interesting to you, you can go to the Pinakothek and admire the true masterpieces visual arts Renaissance. And in the vicinity of the city you can visit medieval monasteries.

Pesaro. Photo sharingmyitaly.wordpress.com

Fano
Fano is one of the largest and most ancient cities of Marche. It received its name from the name of the goddess Fortuna (the word “Fanum” translates as “fortune”). The Arch of Augustus can be considered as a symbol of Fano. It was built by order of Emperor Augustus in the first decade of our era. Ancient walls with cylindrical towers, also built by Augustus, have also been preserved. In addition, tourists in Fano will definitely be interested in the Porta della Mandria gate and Malatesta Castle. This medieval castle today houses Archaeological Museum. Here you can admire ancient Greek figurines, brooches, amphorae, fragments of sculptures, etc. found by archaeologists. But the most impressive exhibit is the mosaic made in the 2nd-3rd centuries. ad. It depicts Neptune riding a chariot. While in this city, you should not neglect such palaces as Palazzo del Podesta and Palazzo Montevecchio. Columns, grand staircases, fountains - you need to see this with your own eyes. Among the majestic attractions of Fano are also the Church of San Paterniano, the Romanesque Cathedral, and the Church of Santa Maria Nuova. Outstanding artists and sculptors from different times took part in their design.

Fano. Photo sharingmyitaly.wordpress.com

Celebrities

Raphael Santi (1483 - 1520) - “the bright genius of the Renaissance” was born in Urbino at the end of the 15th century. The first documented masterpiece of Raphael is considered to be the altar painting (1500 - 1501) in the Baronci Chapel of the Church of St. Augustine in Città di Castello, halfway from Urbino to Perugia. In April 1520, the artist was buried with the greatest honors in. On the marble sarcophagus of Raphael there is an inscription: “Ille hic est Raffael, timuit quo sospite vinci, rerum magna parens et moriente mori” - “Here is that famous Raphael, while he was alive, Nature was afraid that he would conquer her, when he was dying, Nature I was afraid to die with him.”

Italian motorcycle racer Valentino Rossi was born in 1979 in Urbino. He is the son of another famous motorcycle racer, Graziano Rossi. During his career, he won several championship titles and almost always wears number 46. He spent his childhood in the town of Tavullia. Especially in honor of the sportsman, the speed limit here is 46 kilometers per hour (instead of the usual fifty).

The amazing Italian region can be proud of having given the world unique, talented people. The Marche region is home to outstanding architects, mathematicians, sculptors, musicians and artists. Its capital is the port city of Ancona, located on the shores of the Adriatic Sea. In this part of Italy you can see and learn a lot of interesting things. One of the rulers of Urbino in the 15th century dreamed of creating an ideal city, so he invited the best craftsmen of that time. Thanks to its excellent acoustics, the Teatro Sferisterio, located in Macerata, hosts annual opera festivals. The karst grottoes of Frasassi are so large that the famous Milan Duomo could easily fit there. There are many parks in Marche, one of which contains caves that once served as a haven for hermit monks. The Riviera Conero stretches from Ancona to Numana. And also...

In the 13th century, technologies were invented in Fabriano (province of Ancona) that made paper stronger and more affordable. The first watermarks appeared here.
Medieval Ancona was second only to Venice in its power. There is a period in its history when goods arriving at the port were not subject to any tax.
The number of students studying at the University of Urbino is 2/3 of the city's population. The establishment was founded at the beginning of the 16th century.
The composer, author of the opera “The Barber of Siville” Gioachino Rossini (1792-1868), was born in Pesaro, the great Rafael Santi (1483-1520) was born in Urbino, and the greatest master of architecture, author of the project for St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome, Donato Bramante (1444-1520), was born in Fermignano. 1514), in Fano - Italian composer Vincenzo Rastrelli (1760-1839).
Marche is the birthplace of Carlo Maratta (1625-1713), recognized during his lifetime as the greatest artist of his time. Today his works can be seen in many museums around the world, but most are in Rome.
At the end of the 12th century, in the province of Ancona, Silvestro Guzzolini was born, the founder of the monastic order of the Silvestrines, whose representatives adhered to the most extreme severity in their pursuit of poverty.
Six popes come from the Marche region. These are Sixtus V (1521-1590) and Pius IX (1792-1878), Clement XI (1649-1721) and Nicholas IV (1227-1292), Leo XII (1760-1829) and Pius VIII (1761-1830).

A little history

In ancient times, the lands of the Marche were inhabited by the Piceni, and the territory was called Picenum. In the 4th century. BC. The Greeks founded a colony - Ancona, and about a century later the Romans appeared here. They conquered local tribes, laid capital roads across the territory, turned Ancona into a full-fledged sea gate, intended for the importation of goods and sending legionnaires for triumphal conquests. After the fall of the Western Empire, power over the territory changed hands. As a result of the confrontation between the Lombards and the Pope, the lands in the 8th century came under the control of the Franks, led by Charlemagne. He decided to mark the boundaries of his possessions by forming separate marks (border areas). Soon their combined name appeared - Marche.

Charles transferred part of the lands into the possession of the papacy. But the pontiff was unable to cope with the desire of individual cities to gain self-government. As a result, Ancona acquired the status of an independent maritime republic, became successful and rich. Supporters of the popes fought with the local lords, realizing how much of a tasty morsel Marche was. In the 14th century they managed to return some cities to the control of the Papal State in the mid-16th century. it included Ancona, and almost 100 years later - Urbino. Apart from a few years at the turn of the 18th-19th centuries, when the Marche lands were under the control of Napoleon, papal power in the region lasted until 1860. It was then that the territory became part of a united Italy.

Attractions Marche

Each city in the region offers something special to see. In Urbino it is worth visiting the Palazzo Ducale, and in Loreto one of the most revered places by Christian pilgrims is the Sanctuary of the Holy House. The city of Osimo became famous for its amazing Cathedral, made in the Roman-Gothic style, and the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin in Campocavallo, built on the site of the Miracle that took place over 10 years. At the top of a hill in Pesaro lies the Villa Imperiale, once owned by the Sforza Dukes. In Ascoli Piceno you can see many unique monuments, and its travertine and tuff structures are admirable.

When to go to Marche

Marche weather

The coastal zone is characterized by a sub-continental climate, which means that summers are hot and winters are rainy and moderately warm. The average temperature in January is about four degrees Celsius. In the south of the region, winter temperatures are within +8 degrees. In the foothills and hills, summers are mild and winters can experience heavy snowfall. Spring is considered the rainiest. In the mountains summer season pretty cool. In winter it is cold and there is a lot of snow, sometimes critical snow drifts are observed.

Long coastline with many beaches and picturesque bays, it offers a comfortable holiday on the Adriatic Sea in the summer. Here you can not only swim and sunbathe, but also do aquatic species sports, and go fishing. The mountain range attracts fans of winter sports and mountain walks.

Castles, fortresses and other historical and cultural attractions are open to guests all year round. Tourists enjoy visiting abbeys, basilicas, archaeological sites and museums that house real masterpieces from famous masters of the past and present. Almost every town in the Marche region has its own charm.

The region invites lovers of culinary delicacies 12 months a year. Marche cuisine is a successful combination of centuries-old traditions, supported by unique natural conditions. In addition to traditional dishes, tourists will be offered to taste sour cherry wine and cumin liqueur, salami, which includes figs and nuts, and also enjoy Casciotta d'Urbino cheese, which Michelangelo himself admired. To collect white and black truffles, it is worth coming in the autumn winter period.

Marche on the map of Italy

The Marche territory is located just above the middle part of the Apennine Peninsula. It stretches: on the one hand, along the sandy and pebble coast of the Adriatic Sea, and on the other, along a mountain range that crosses the entire Italian boot. The rivers in the Marche region are short, there are no large natural lakes, but the compact bodies of water are extremely beautiful and attractive from a landscape point of view. In Mark there is National parks And nature reserves, caves and sea beaches.

The area is considered one of the most hilly in Italy (69%). The rest of the territory is occupied by mountains. The highest peak is Mount Vettore - 2476 m above sea level. The region is considered earthquake-prone. The Marche region borders on Umbria, Abruzzo, Emilia-Romagna, and quite a bit on Tuscany, Lazio and the Republic of San Marino. The region is divided into 5 provinces.

How to get to Marche

18km from Ancona there is international Airport Falconara, named after Rafael Santi. Lands here aircraft from several Italian as well as European and Middle Eastern cities. The closest international airport from the Marche region that receives planes from Moscow is in Rimini.

Along the coast is laid highway Taranto-Bologna. Secondary roads fan out deeper into the peninsula, connecting big cities with small villages. A large railway line connects coastal settlements. The Marche region has developed sea view transport.

The entire territory of Marche is covered with hills and mountains, the flat areas are limited to the coastal strip. Highest mountain range region, one of the first four highest in all the Apennines, is called Monti Sibillini and is located in the middle of the provinces of Fermo, Ascoli Piceno and Macerata. The coast is interrupted approximately in the middle by Cape Conero, which divides it into two sections. On the cape is Mount Conero, whose limestone cliffs dramatically overhang the sea - this is the most high point the entire coast of the Adriatic Sea, the height of the cliffs exceeds 500 meters above sea level. Conero protects the Bay of Ancona from the north, where the port of the same name is located.

Urbino, historical Center/Shutterstock.com

The climate on the coast is moderate: summers are hot, but refreshed by a pleasant sea breeze, and winters are cold. IN mountainous areas Summers are warm and winters are harsh, with a high probability of snowfall. The main cities of Marche are the capital Ancona, Pesaro, Urbino, Macerata, Fermo and Ascoli Piceno.

Tourism

Marche is a real discovery for lovers of diverse natural landscapes, man-made and non-man-made beauties, which are concentrated on an area of just under 10,000 square meters. This is a region with a thousand faces and colors: the yellow of sunflower fields, the green of hills and parks, the red of traditions, folklore and culture and, finally, the blue - the rich color of the sea, lakes and rivers.

As many as 180 kilometers of coastline with 26 beach resorts, magnificent beaches, picturesque bays, 9 tourist ports and 18 “blue flags” that guarantee the quality of services and water. In this region, you can choose a beach with fine sand, pebbles or a rocky shore, with palm trees or cliffs. The variety of beach landscapes allows you to practice many sports.

The inland part of the region is distinguished by an exceptionally beautiful landscape, which is formed by green and golden hills with patches of forests and meadows, harmoniously alternating with neat wheat fields and olive groves.

In the west, the Apennines confidently keep their watch, gently descending in parallel valleys to the sea, and in the south - the proud peaks of the Monti Sibillini, exceeding 2,000 meters and attracting lovers of botany, mountain walks and trekking.

Cathedral of San Ciriaco in Ancona / Shutterstock.com

Marche is one of the richest regions of the country in terms of cultural heritage: 500 squares, more than 1000 major monuments, 37 fortresses, 106 castles, 15 citadels and 170 towers, thousands of churches (200 Romanesque, 96 abbeys, 183 sanctuaries), 72 ancient theaters , restored and operating. It also has the highest density of museums and art galleries, as well as many libraries (as many as 315), some of which contain ancient volumes.

So Marche is a real museum region, consisting of a rich network of art cities and ancient towns scattered across soft green hills, where unique masterpieces are stored - paintings by Piero della Francesca and Lorenzo Lotto, Raphael and Carlo Crivelli, Rubens and Titian, and There are also many ancient theaters and ancient Roman roads, testifying to the remarkable past of these lands.

In addition to museums, libraries, archives and theaters, cultural heritage includes numerous religious monuments, abbeys, monasteries, churches distributed throughout the territory, and secular buildings - castles, citadel cities, fortresses.

Food and wine

In enogastronomic terms, Marche is unique land; we can say that all the main Italian delicacies are present in this region. Due to the varied and complex configuration natural landscape Here you can find various culinary traditions - the result of a harmonious combination of nature, tradition and culture. The Marche gastronomic tradition is based on simple and healthy ingredients. Dishes with a strong taste, mainly made from meat, alternate here with fish, crustaceans and seafood.

Truffle. Marche is one of the few regions in Italy that produces high-quality truffles of both types - black and white. Mushroom picking is very common in the mountains.

Salami. The history of salami is closely connected with peasant history local population: on the farm, almost all parts of the pig’s body were used, nothing was thrown away. This is how the two main types of salami in the Marche appeared - Fabriano and Ciauscolo, especially popular in the vicinity of Macerata. This is a Protected Geographical Indication (IGP) product. When making it, lard is ground and mixed with meat, forming a single mass that can be spread on bread.

Other types of salami are coppa di testa, mazzafegato, fegatelli and "salsiccia matta". Also prized are the sausages lonza, londzino, capocollo, pancetta-arrotolata bacon and roasted suckling pig (porchetta). Prosciutto, one of the most valuable parts of the pork carcass, is produced throughout the region. Prosciutto from Carpegna is very popular both in Italy and around the world: in 2006 it received Denomination of Origin (DOP) status in Europe.

Olive oil. The Marche's olive groves cover an area of 7,200 hectares, and the oil produced here has excellent organoleptic properties. The quality of the oil is inextricably linked to the quality of the fruits themselves: the delicate olives from Ascoli are highly valued and are considered the best olives for serving; they are also available in brine, stuffed or fried “Askolan style”.

Cheeses. This is a land rich in pastures, where livestock eat natural food and produce rich and healthy milk. Therefore, there are many cheeses made from cow, sheep, goat and mixed milk - casecci, caprino, zlattato, ravigiolo, quark, ricottine and lemon-shaped caci. Sheep cheeses are unusual, characteristic of all mountainous regions: they are flavored with marjoram, thyme, blackberry shoots, cloves, nutmeg, pepper, olive oil and yolk are added. In the northern part of the region, you can also find pecorino cheese, which is aged in oak barrels for three months, wrapped in nut leaves or layered with aromatic herbs or grape marc. The casciotta from Urbino (DOP), one of Michelangelo’s favorite cheeses, is also famous; it has been produced here since the 16th century.

Verdicchio vineyards in the Castelli di Jesi area / Shutterstock.com

Wine. The hills of the Marche region are ideal for viticulture and the production of sugary and aromatic grapes, from which excellent quality wines are made. The variety of wine products in the region is really great: 15 DOC wines (Bianchello del Metauro, Colli Maceratesi, Colli Pesaresi, Esino, Falerio, I Terreni di San Severino, Lacrima di Morro d'Alba, Terre di Offida, Pergola, Rosso Conero, Serrapetrona, Rosso Piceno, Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi e Verdicchio di Matelica) and 5 DOCG (Conero, Offida, Vernaccia di Serrapetrona, Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Riserva, Verdicchio di Matelica Riserva). There are also many festivals dedicated to wine, as well as routes through the region, allowing you to simultaneously get acquainted with its art, traditions and culture. The Enoteca of the Marche region in Jesi and Offida is definitely worth a visit.

Dessert. The authenticity of Marche's cuisine is also reflected in the dessert part of the menu. Local sweets are distinguished by the use of local products and ease of preparation. Almost all of them belong to the peasant tradition and are associated with carnival, religious holidays or turning points of various seasons. The list is endless: castagnole, biscuits with wine, morocchini, scugetti or must polenta, bostrengo, fig salami, frustingo, chambellone, pizza sbattuta, chicerchiata, chestnut ravioli, fungetti di Offida, calcioni or piconi, frappe , almond or walnut cookies, cavalucci di Cingoli and others.

How to get there

By plane
Marche's main airport is Ancona-Falcónara International Airport (www.marcheairport.com), named after the great Renaissance artist Rafael Santi, born in the nearby city of Urbino. This airport links Marche with Rome, Naples, Alghero, Cagliari, Catania and Trapani. There are also direct flights to some cities in Europe and the Middle East: Munich, Brussels, London, Dusseldorf, Barcelona, Tirana, Marsa el-Alam, Sharm el-Sheikh.

By car
Whether you are coming to Marche from the north or the south, there are two options: the A14 Bologna-Taranto motorway or the parallel SS16 highway. The largest and most interesting cities connected by roads that fan out from the coast to the mainland of the region: SS3 "Flaminia" from Rome crosses Umbria and ends in Fano, SS76 from Fabriano goes to Jesi and Ancona, SS77 links Foligno with Civitanova Marche, passing through Tolentino and Macerata, SS4 "Salaria" connects Rome and Rieti with Ascoli Piceno and San Benedetto del Tronto.

By train
The main railway lines in the region are the Adriatic from north to south (Milan-Bologna-Ancona-Pescara-Bari-Lecce) and the trans-Appennine (Ancona-Fabriano-Foligno-Orte-Rome). The area around Macerata is crossed by the Civitanova-Fabriano line, the area around Fabriano is crossed by the Fabriano-Pergola line, and the area around Piceno is crossed by San Benedetto del Tronto Ascoli Piceno. Freccia Rossa high-speed trains run to Ancona and Pesaro - on the line that continues the Milan-Reggio-Emilia-Bologna line towards Rimini, Pesaro and Ancona.

By sea
Ancona is one of the most important ports on the Adriatic, both in terms of tourism and trade. From here there are flights to Greece, Croatia, Albania and Montenegro. In the port of Ancona they moor and cruise ships, and from the port of Pesaro you can reach Croatia by catamaran.
Nine tourist ports of the Marche are available for mooring yachts: Gabicce Mare, Pesaro, Fano, Senigallia, Ancona, Numana, Civitanova Marche, Porto San Giorgio and San Benedetto del Tronto.

Official website of the tourism department of the Marche region:

The Italian region of Marche in the east of the country is an area that unites cities with very different histories and cultures.

This administrative region owes its name to the Frankish tribes who appeared here in the 10th century and called the border lands “Marka”. Marche is located on the east coast of Central Italy and is one of the smallest regions of the country.

Geographical location and climate

Located administrative Marche region the central part of the Adriatic coast, covering an area of 9366 km². In fact, this is the 15th largest area among all 20 Italian regions. The warm Adriatic Sea washes Marche from the east, in the north the region borders with San Marino and, in the west with Umbria, in the northwest with, and in the south with.

The administrative center and, in fact, the only large port in the region is Ancona. With the exception of a narrow coastal strip, the region's territory has a mountainous terrain. All the local rivers (Esino, Metauro, Cesano, Potenza and Tronto) flow into the Adriatic Sea.

Conventionally, the region can be divided into two climatic zones. In his southern cities The climate is dry and mild, in the northern climate it is humid and cool. The most comfortable climate, of course, is on the coast. So, average temperature in Ancona it is 20.7°C in summer and 3°C in winter. Time zone is UTC+1. In summer, time differs from Moscow by 2 hours, and in winter – by 3 hours.

General information and features of administrative division

An area of 9366 km² is about 3.2% of all Italy. The population as of 2013 is 1,545,155 people, of which 100,000 live in the administrative center of Ancona. The region consists of five provinces: Ancona, Fermo, Macerato and Pesaro e Urbino.

For many years the Marche region lagged behind in economic development from others Italian regions due to the lack of roads connecting it with the central part of the country. Today the region's GDP is 2.6% of Italy. The predominance of small land ownership and the lack of fertile land causes the slow development of agriculture. At the same time, Marche remains one of the main shipbuilding centers of the country.

Region Marche. A little history

The settlement of the territories of the Marche region occurred in the 9th–3rd centuries BC. e. during the Iron Age. Ancient times Adriatic coast was under the control of the powerful Senone tribe, which was constantly in conflict with the Romans. At the end of the 3rd century, the area known as Pisenum came under Roman control. Later there was the fall of the Western Roman Empire, wars with the Goths in 535-554, entry into the Ravenna Exarchate of Byzantium, the Lombards, conquest in 724-814 by Charlemagne and inclusion in the Holy Roman Empire.

Over time, the territory was transferred to the control of the Pope. But staying in the Papal States turned out to be a formality, since the real administration of the region was carried out by local clans. In 1796, Napoleon forced Pius to allow Ancona to be occupied. Then there was a short period of independence and entry into the Roman Republic in 1798. The territory became part of the united state in 1869.

The current capital of the region Ancona in 390 BC. e. founded by the Greeks. The name is translated from Greek as “elbow” and is due to its external similarity: the city harbor protected by a cape resembles an elbow. In use for quite a long time local residents there were coins with palm fronds and Greek.

Cities and attractions of Marche

Perhaps one of the most interesting from a tourist point of view is the city Urbino. This locality of about 15,000 people, spread out over the Folha and Metauro hills in the center of the region, has remained virtually unchanged since the Middle Ages. From a distance, the city resembles a large-scale theatrical set in a medieval theater: among a large number of tiled roofs, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture rises Palazzo Ducale.

The construction of this palace was initiated by Duke Federico II and lasted a whole century from the middle of the 15th century until 1563. A few years after the start construction work The task of building the palace city was transferred to the Italian Luciano Laurano. The architect developed a project that combined new buildings and old buildings. It was he who became the author of the famous “Tower Garden”, the courtyard and main staircase. In 1472, Laurano was replaced by Francesco di Giorgio Martini, whose main achievement was the interiors of the palace. In addition to the Palazzo Ducale, the Church of San Bernardino degli Zoccolanti from 1472 is worth visiting in Urbino.

By the way, it was in this city that the famous treatise “Foundations of Arithmetic” by Luca Pacioli was born in 1494, in which he considered some issues of accounting. Perhaps that is why Italian Urbino is considered the “cradle” of accounting.

The administrative center of the region is the city Ancona attractive to tourists as a balneological resort. Among the numerous monuments of antiquity and the Middle Ages, the Romanesque cathedral of the 11th-13th centuries and the Triumphal Arch of Trajan of the 2nd century are worthy of special mention. And, of course, the scale of the speleological complex of the Frassasi caves will not leave anyone indifferent. One of the oldest European universities, founded in 1290, is located in the town Macerata, but picturesque Pesaro famous as the birthplace of the great Gioachino Rossini. IN Loreto You can also see the earthly house of the Virgin Mary.

View available Marche region hotels on the map

Culture and art

It is no secret that the cultural heritage of any power is not limited to monuments of architecture and art. And in Mark they even know how to turn the prose of life into art. Thus, the traditions of craftsmanship in the manufacture of textiles, leather goods and paper are not only passed on from generation to generation, but also form the basis of the production capabilities of enterprises. The Indesit company, which produces household appliances, and the manufacturers of musical instruments from Castelfidaro are known throughout the world.

It just so happened that Marche gave the planet many Italian composers, musicians and cultural figures, including Maria Montessori, Donato Bramante, Giacomo Leopardi, Rafael Sabbatini, Gioachino Rossini and Valentino Rossi. But the most famous native of this area is Rafael Santi. On Via Contrada del Monte in Urbino, the house in which the artist was born is still preserved.

Of course, comparing Marche with large tourist centers Italy would be incorrect. But every year everything comes to the region large quantity tourists who prefer relaxing holiday against the backdrop of nature.