The Marche region of Italy is a hidden gem that deserves more attention from travelers seeking authentic Italian experiences. Juliana de Brito, the creator of the website Wonderful Marche, is on a mission to share the beauty and charm of this unspoiled region. Originally from Rio de Janeiro and with a rich heritage blending Brazilian, Chinese, and Portuguese roots, Juliana moved to Italy nearly two decades ago and now resides in the Marche region with her family.
What is The Marche region?
Often overlooked in favor of Italy's more famous coastlines, the Adriatic coast, home to the Marche region, offers stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences. The name "Marche" is unique in that it is the only Italian region name in the plural form, reflecting its historical division into several smaller regions, known as marches.
Exploring the Marche Region
The Marche region is known for its artisanal shoe production, particularly around Ascoli Piceno and Macerata. Visitors can still find artisans crafting shoes by hand, preserving a tradition that dates back centuries.
In the Ancona province, the town of Fabriano is famous for its papermaking heritage. The Marche region's Fabriano Paper Museum offers visitors a chance to see traditional paper production methods and participate in workshops.
Urbania, on the other hand, is renowned for its hand-painted maiolica ceramics, a tradition that dates back to the Renaissance.
Must-Visit Places, off the beaten path
- Gradara Castle: Located in the Pesaro-Urbino province, Gradara Castle is a historical gem where visitors can explore the castle and enjoy typical dishes of the region. The castle also hosts historical reenactments during the summer.
- Marmita dei Giganti: This sculpted river canyon offers breathtaking natural beauty and opportunities for trekking and canoeing. It’s a fantastic destination for nature lovers.
- Fermo: The historic city center of the Marche region's Fermo boasts the Palazzo dei Priori, a fascinating museum, and the Fermo cisterns. The town frequently hosts historical reenactments that offer a unique and authentic experience.
- Beaches of the Conero Riviera: The beaches along the Conero Riviera, such as Sirolo, Numana, and Portonovo, are spectacular. These areas not only provide beautiful landscapes but also a glimpse into local traditions, especially at the Fisherman Cooperative in Portonovo.
Culinary Delights
The cuisine of the Marche region reflects its diversity and rich history. The area around Ancona is famous for stoccafisso, a traditional cod dish prepared with red sauce and sometimes potatoes. The Ascoli Piceno area is renowned for Olive Ascolane, stuffed and fried olives that are a must-try. Find this recipe - and a few other Marche region recipes - in my Substack newsletter Wednesday June 26th!
Photo credit: https://www.greatitalianchefs.com/recipes/olive-ascolane-recipe-deep-fried-olives
The Marche region’s coastline, particularly Portonovo, is famous for its wild mussels, known as moscioli. These mussels are celebrated for their intense flavor, which is attributed to the pristine quality of the water in the bay.
Planning Your Visit
When planning a trip to the Marche region, it’s beneficial to research the different provinces and tailor your visit based on your interests. Whether you are drawn to UNESCO heritage sites, beautiful beaches, or delicious local cuisine, the Marche has something to offer every traveler.
For more detailed information and personalized travel itineraries, Juliana de Brito’s website, Wonderful Marche, is an excellent resource. Juliana is also available to answer any questions via email.
With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and authentic Italian charm, this is a destination that promises a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you are exploring ancient castles, savoring local delicacies, or relaxing on pristine beaches, the Marche has something special for every traveler.
Check out some of my other articles and podcast episodes about the Marche region to help you plan your visit:
A food guide to the Marche region
Top things to do in the region
A flavor of the Marche
For a top-choice Marche experience: La Tavola Marche
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