Piazzale del Duomo, 60122 Ancona, Italy (May 2019)

Ancona

Ancona, the capital of Italy’s Marche region, is a city that gracefully blends the old with the new, offering a compelling mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located along the Adriatic Sea, Ancona has been a crucial maritime hub since its founding by Greek settlers from Syracuse around 387 BC. The city’s strategic position on the Adriatic has shaped its identity over millennia, serving as a bridge between East and West and a vital port throughout various periods of history. Ancona’s rich historical tapestry is woven with influences from the Romans, Byzantines, and Lombards, among others. Each of these cultures left an indelible mark on the city, from its architecture to its traditions. One of the most prominent historical landmarks in Ancona is the Cathedral of San Ciriaco. Perched atop Guasco Hill, this Romanesque-Byzantine cathedral offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city below. The cathedral, built between the 11th and 13th centuries, stands on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to Venus, symbolizing the city’s layered history. Another testament to Ancona’s historical significance is the Arch of Trajan, a Roman triumphal arch that dates back to 115 AD. Erected in honor of Emperor Trajan, who expanded the port of Ancona, the arch is one of the finest examples of Roman architecture in the region. Standing at nearly 18 meters high, it once served as the grand entrance to the city’s port, welcoming merchants and travellers from across the Mediterranean.

Ancona’s historical treasures are not confined to its ancient monuments. The city’s old town, with its narrow, winding streets and medieval buildings, offers a glimpse into the past. The area is a delightful place to wander, with hidden courtyards, ancient churches, and quaint shops that sell everything from local crafts to delicious regional specialties. The bustling Piazza del Plebiscito, also known as Piazza del Papa, is the heart of this historic quarter. Lined with elegant palazzi and lively cafes, it is a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere of the city. While history is ever-present in Ancona, the city is also very much alive in the present. As a contemporary port city, Ancona is a gateway to the Balkans and Greece, with regular ferry services connecting it to several destinations across the Adriatic. This vibrant port activity contributes to the city’s dynamic economy and multicultural character, making Ancona a melting pot of different influences and cultures. Ancona’s relationship with the sea is a defining feature of the city. The port is not only a vital economic engine but also a place of recreation and relaxation for locals and visitors alike. The Passetto, a coastal promenade, offers stunning views of the Adriatic and is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll. From here, you can take a staircase down to the beach, where you can swim in the clear waters or simply enjoy the sun.

For nature lovers, Ancona offers more than just its coastline. The nearby Conero Riviera, with its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and lush greenery, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Monte Conero, a limestone promontory that rises dramatically above the sea, is the centrepiece of this natural area. Hiking trails wind through the Monte Conero, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic and the surrounding countryside. The area’s beaches, such as Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle and Portonovo, are considered some of the most beautiful in Italy. Culturally, Ancona is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and theatres that showcase the region’s artistic heritage. The National Archaeological Museum of the Marche, housed in a former palace, is one of the city’s cultural highlights. It features an extensive collection of artifacts from the prehistoric, Picene, and Roman periods, providing insight into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in this area. In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Ancona is renowned for its culinary traditions. The city’s cuisine reflects its maritime heritage, with seafood playing a central role in many dishes. Fresh fish, mussels, and clams are staples, often served with pasta or risotto. Local wines, such as Verdicchio and Rosso Conero, perfectly complement the regional flavours and are celebrated both in Italy and abroad. Ancona is a city that invites exploration, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are wandering through its ancient streets, relaxing on its beaches, or enjoying its culinary delights, Ancona provides a unique and memorable experience that captures the essence of Italy’s Adriatic coast.

Worth a Visit

Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Via Flaminia to Piazza Camillo Benso di Cavour
Approximately 2.65 km – 1.65 miles

The walk starts in –  Via Flaminia – Via Guglielmo Marconi – Via XXIX Settembre – Via dell’Appannaggio – Piazza della Repubblica – Largo Sacramento – Parrocchia Del Sacramento, Piazza J. F. Kennedy – Via Enrico Cialdini – Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi – Via Giacomo Leopardi – Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi – Piazza Roma – Fontana del Calamo, Piazza Roma – Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi – Via Castelfidardo – Giardino Pubblico Piazza Stamira – Via Palestro – walk back to Corso Giuseppe Garibald – Piazza Camillo Benso di Cavour

Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Via Indipendenza to Piazzale del Duomo
Approximately 1.65 km – 1.04 miles

The walk starts in – Via Indipendenza – Caserma Villarey, Piazzale Martelli Raffaele – Via Villarey -Via Goito – Via delle Cavorchie – Via Giacomo Matteotti – Piazza del Plebiscito – Chiesa di San Domenico, Piazza del Plebiscito – Piazza del Plebiscito – Via Catena – Chiesa di Santa Maria della Piazza, Piazza Santa Maria – Lungomare Luigi Vanvitelli – take lift up to Via Gabriele Ferretti – Scalone Nappi – Piazzale del Duomo