Itineraries and surroundings
Gradara
Gradara is an ancient fortified village in the hinterland of the Marche-Romagna riviera, not far from Cattolica and the sea, set against a pleasant backdrop of rolling hills. It is known for its historic Malatesta fortress (Rocca Malatestiana), which is open to visitors and houses, in addition to the armoury, a torture chamber, a chapel and several rooms with original 15th- and 16th-century furniture.
San Marino
The State of San Marino is the third-smallest country in Europe and the oldest republic in the world. Perched on the slopes of Mount Titano, San Marino has its own mint, its own postage stamps, a football team and an army. Not to be missed are the three magnificent fortresses, linked by walkways to the citadel below, which is enclosed by a triple ring of walls. From anywhere in the territory, and especially from the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a unique and unforgettable view across the countryside of Emilia-Romagna and the hills of the Marche and Montefeltro, all the way to the Adriatic Sea.
Urbino
Standing 485 metres above sea level, Urbino has preserved its character as a centre of art and culture over the centuries. Its Renaissance heart is the Ducal Palace (Palazzo Ducale), the symbol of the city and now home to the National Gallery of the Marche, which holds numerous masterpieces, including paintings by Piero della Francesca and Titian. Other points of interest include Raphael's House (Casa di Raffaello), where the artist was born and where you can admire one of his early frescoes as well as the 15th-century rooms and furnishings; the neoclassical cathedral (Duomo); the University Palace; and the churches of San Domenico, San Francesco and San Sergio.
San Leo
In the Marecchia Valley, about 30 km from Rimini, San Leo rises atop an enormous rocky outcrop that can be reached only by a single road cut into the rock. On the highest point of the spur stands the fortress (Rocca), an impregnable stronghold that was enlarged and, around 1600, converted into a prison that held illustrious inmates such as Count Cagliostro and Felice Orsini. The view from San Leo is one of the most beautiful and distinctive in the region, sweeping over the surrounding mountains and along the Marecchia valley as far as the sea.
Frasassi
The Frasassi Caves, located within the Gola della Rossa and Frasassi Regional Nature Park in the province of Ancona, extend for 30 km and form one of the most magnificent and fascinating underground routes in the world. These karst caves were discovered in 1948. You can choose a tourist route, accessible to everyone, or experience the thrill of a speleological tour.
Loreto
A place of worship and pilgrimage for millions of the faithful since the Middle Ages, its imposing Basilica houses the most important relic of Christianity: the house where the Holy Family lived in Nazareth, where Mary was born and where Jesus lived until the age of 30.
