Numana and the Conero Riviera

The Picene civilisation settled in Sirolo from the 9th to the 3rd century BC (some interesting remains can still be found at the "I Pini" archaeological site), followed by Roman domination. The etymology of "Sirolo", derived from the name Sirio, likely dates back to around 560 AD.
From the Middle Ages, Sirolo developed its identity as a fortified stronghold, protecting itself from invasions by barbarians and pirates through narrow alleys and towers. Today, it is one of the towns on the Riviera del Conero, located at the foot of the mountain, and is well known for its numerous Blue Flags and the distinctive character of its historic centre. The narrow streets wind through the historic centre, opening up onto a spacious square with a stunning panoramic view: on one side, Mount Conero with its coves, and on the other, the seafront of Numana.
The town is home to two theatres: the historic Cortesi theatre and the magnificent "Le Cave" open-air theatre.

One of the most famous beaches in the area is that of Due Sorelle, which can also be reached by sea with special boats that depart regularly from the port of Numana.
For those who love wild beaches, this destination is truly unmissable: unequipped, the beach forms a small bay with crystal-clear waters and two very similar rocks rising from the water, resembling twin boulders (which is why it's called "Le Due Sorelle" ("The Two Sisters")). In the vicinity of the junction with the adjacent bay, the current becomes stronger, while the waters in front of the bay are generally calm and protected from the wind.
Adjacent to the Due Sorelle beach, there is another stretch of coastline, characterised by the presence of boulders: here, there was once "la Grotta degli Schiavi", "the Slave's Cave", which was closed off by a landslide at the beginning of the century.
Even today, many stories are told about the beauty of this cave, which could be accessed by boat directly from the sea.

The Ancona district of Portonovo is an integral part of the Conero, a mountain inhabited since prehistory, and shares its history: from the Picene settlement, to the Dorian domination, followed by Roman and Byzantine rule, the occupation of the Papal States, then French control, and finally, Italian rule. A unique trace of the monastic life that characterised this area in the Middle Ages, with hermits seeking silence and solitude, is the small church of Santa Maria, a Romanesque gem dating back to the 11th century. Along its bay, a place of arrival throughout the centuries, there are significant historical landmarks: the Watch Tower, built in the 18th century to defend against pirates, and the Napoleonic Fort, a military stronghold now transformed into a hospitality and dining venue.
The bay of Portonovo is set in an unspoiled natural environment: the characteristic beach is composed of white pebbles from the Conero Riviera, constantly smoothed by the waves. Two brackish ponds create a habitat with specific flora and fauna, preserved by the Nature Reserve.

Porto Recanati was not always called by this name; in fact, in the 16th century, the town changed its name to Porto Giulio, in honour of Pope Julius II. It was during this period that the small church of Banderuola was built, at the site of the first legendary "translation" of the Holy House of Loreto. The Pinacoteca Moroni art gallery, housed inside Svevo Castle, is worth a visit. The castle courtyard now hosts the Arena dedicated to Beniamino Gigli, which serves as the venue for a number of events, performances, and cultural exhibitions.

The centre of Porto Recanati is characterised by a beautiful coastline, mostly bordered by a pedestrian seafront. Along it, you'll find beach resorts, cafés, and small restaurants. In the northern part of the town, you can admire the typical colourful fisherman's houses overlooking the sea, which are still present and active in the city's productive fabric. Fishing is an activity deeply connected to the local cuisine: Porto Recanati's fish stew, known as brodetto, is famous for being the only one made without tomatoes, using saffron instead. The colourful market held on Thursdays adds another touch of cheer and colour to this village rich in traditions, which is further enlivened each summer by numerous festivals, fairs, and events.

The city of Loreto is located on the top of a hill, surrounded by the Marche countryside, where you can observe the cultivation of olive trees. It stands out against the sky, with its unmistakable silhouette, the great dome of the Basilica, which has made Loreto famous all over the world.
The Basilica, in a Gothic-Renaissance style, stands on an ancient three-nave structure and houses the Holy House, which faith and tradition identify as the one that belonged to Mary, where she later received the Annunciation from the Archangel Gabriel.
Many contributed to the embellishment of the church: the octagonal dome was built between 1498 and 1500 by Giuliano da Sangallo; Bramante worked on the design of the façade; while the rich and sumptuous marble cladding surrounding the Holy House was designed by Bramante and later constructed by Sansovino. The Chapel of the Annunciation was decorated with frescoes by Federico Zuccari, while the sacristies of San Marco and San Giovanni were painted by Melozzo da Forlì and Luca Signorelli. Finally, the ceiling and the pavilion of the Treasure Room were frescoed by Pomarancio. Between 1750 and 1754, the bell tower was built by Luigi Vanvitelli. The church also houses works by Lorenzo Lotto, who was very active in the Marche region.