Le Marche is regularly described as the land of a thousand theatres, indeed many of even the smallest hilltop towns have retained and regularly use their theatres. These theatres range from the grand Sferisterio in Macerata which holds approximately seven thousand people to the pocket sized theatres of towns like that at Penna San Giovanni which is roughly the size of your granny's living room. Not forgetting the old Roman theatres or amphitheatres such as at Urbisaglia and Falerone which are still used for wonderful summertime performances.
For information about open air opera tickets please go to www.sferisterio.it
Whilst Le Marche is brimming over with cultural delights it is also a region of tremendous natural beauty. The awe-inspiring Frasassi limestone caves are a favourite with visitors to the region as is Monte Conero a huge limestone mountain which plunges directly into the sea giving rise to wonderful little coves and tiny bathing resorts.
The Sibillini Mountains are a truly spectacular range whose peaks often remain snow covered well into the spring, the mountain pastures and meadows are covered with alpine flowers most notably from April to June. The mountains are well worth exploring at any time of year and the mountain towns and villages such as Visso and Castelluccio have much to offer not only in the local wines and traditional dishes (such as wild boar) but also in locally produced crafts. The roadside seems to be the obvious point of sale and you will often see farmers sitting in their tractors laden with their goods for you to enjoy haggling over.
Whilst it is impossible to list all of the local towns and particular points of interest we can offer a few examples of what you might expect to find when visiting our corner of Le Marche.
Sarnano (25 minutes away by car)
Sarnano is a bustling spa town which boasts a large outdoor market every Thursday morning. The waters at Terme are said to be beneficial for many complaints such as gout and arthritis. The medieval old town sits above the new and a walk through its steep and winding street and alleyways is like a journey back in time, almost entirely untouched by the modern world. Its street is dotted with old chapels and when eventually you reach Piazza Alta or High square you will find the medieval municipal buildings and the main Church. Well worth the walk!
The newer part of Sarnano is lively, with bars and interesting little shops to explore. During the summer season the town holds many events and festivals the most notable being the ‘Palio dello Serasino' in August. The restaurants and trattorie are abundant and of a high standard. Our favourite is Scherzi a Parte whose name literally translates as 'Joking Apart' an Osteria which is to be found just outside of Sarnano on the road to Sassotetto.
Penna San Giovanni (5 minutes away by car)
The Metta Centre is situated in the valley just below Penna San Giovanni. Much smaller than Sarnano and more peaceful, yet with all the vibrant life of traditional hilltop village. At the very top of the old town you'll discover the viewpoint. Wander through the wooded gardens passed the war memorial until you reach the seated area of the viewpoint. Needless to say on a clear day the vista is unforgettable.
Penna has two beautiful churches and a tiny theatre. Everybody turns out for market day which occurs once a month. Although tiny Penna San Giovanni has a fantastic shoe factory just on its outskirts, and produces some of the finest Cashmere jumpers and cardigans as a cottage industry in the town itself.
Penna San Giovanni holds lots of festivals throughout the year and it is well worth exploring, the two bars are both friendly and visitors are welcomed warm-heartedly by the Pennese people. The town's spa is situated directly opposite The Metta Centre. Try Paolo's Pizzeria and restaurant ‘Vecchi Sapori' underneath the Bar Porta Marina in the lower part of town - the best Pizza in Le Marche!
Tolentino (40 minutes away by car)
Tolentino is a large medieval town which is home to the shrine of St Nicholas which is in the crypt of the Basilica that bears his name.
In the Piazza della Liberta you can try and fathom out the mysteries of one of the strangest clock towers you'll ever see, the multiple faces include one which denotes the phases of the moon.
Tolentino is a lively place to visit with good shops and a large sprawling market where you can pick up a bargain or two. Castles, museums and galleries; something to suit everybody's taste. In Tolentino you'll find no shortage of restaurants for good food Marchigiani style!
Falerone (15 minutes away by car)
In the valley behind Penna San Giovanni lies Pian di Falerone which is dotted with Roman ruins and boasts an amphitheatre which is used today for local productions of opera and theatre during the summer months.
Falerone itself is an interesting medieval town with lots to explore. Sit and watch the world go by in one of the many bars and cafes which are dotted around. The local people are friendly and love to spend time telling you stories and while away the hours over a glass of grappa or two.
