Province of Fermo
Piazza del Popolo in Fermo is considered one of the most harmonious squares in Italy, with its sixteenth-century loggias framing it on the two long sides. The Palazzo dei Priori (13th century) houses the Pinacoteca Civica with Rubens' 'Nativity', and the famous Sala del Mappamondo: one of the richest globes of Renaissance cartography. The underground Roman Cisterns (1st century AD) are a masterpiece of hydraulic engineering with 30 communicating rooms, still used today for exciting visits.
Cisterns
1st century AD, 30 rooms
Art Gallery
Rubens — Nativity

Behind an understated facade lies one of Le Marche’s great historic theatres: a surprise to seek out in Fermo’s old town.

From family workshops to industrial districts and major brands, shoemaking has become one of the most recognisable economic stories of the modern Marche.

Falerio Picenus was a fully fledged Roman city. Its theatre, still visible in the rural landscape, is its most spectacular surviving testimony.

In 1267, Lorenzo Tiepolo had the fortress built that still overlooks Porto San Giorgio. A few years later he would become Doge of Venice.

Thirty Roman chambers hidden below the historic centre: the great cisterns reveal Firmum Picenum's sophistication two thousand years ago.