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The borders of the Signoria
...34 km route
From Cattolica, following the Adriatica state road and turning right, the road climbs up to Gradara (alt. 140 m) as far as the famous Malatesta Castle, with a short intermediate stop, if you wish, at the hospitable village of Granarola with sea view. Continue on to Tavullia along the apparently flat road that stretches over a ridge of hills with a good view of the coast and Montefeltro, in the direction of Santa Maria del Monte, San Rocco and then Saludecio, which boasts a rich old-town centre. Further on are Mondaino and Montegridolfo with their mighty fortified walls.
Culture and nature
To the south, where the Romagna coastline borders that of the Marche region, in a large natural bay protected by the Gabicce headland, lies Cattolica, a major fishing port and a city with ancient seafaring traditions which today are kept at the Museo della Regina (Museum of the Queen). On the hills, behind the town, in a wonderful scenic location, stands Gradara, with its restored Malatesta Castle, surrounded by high walls and with its old town centre, where legend says the sad story of Paolo and Francesca took place. Saludecio reveals its past as the most important town of the Conca Valley (between 1500 and 1800) in its streets and squares, onto which face elegant aristocratic houses and Towers that terminate directly in the beautiful surrounding countryside. The luscious greenery of the area has made Saludecio into a Herbal and medicinal herb study centre. |
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Just a few kilometres away is Mondaino with its singular Piazza Maggiore, which has an oval shape and an elegant 18th-century. portico, accessible through a fortified gate dominated by the fortress, the Malatesta Fortress.
Only a short drive away is Montegridolfo, formerly a Castle built to defend the border with the Montefeltro region of the Marche and now a skilfully restored village incorporated within still intact walls.
Food festivals
At Saludecio, during the period around 25 April, Salus Erbe and in mid-July, Il sabato dei villaggi (The Saturday of the villages) with food stalls and traditional produce.
In mid November, Mondaino stages a Truffle Fair, while at the end of November, visitors will find honey, oil, precious truffles and cheeses at the Fair of Santa Bibiana.
In mid-December, at Montegridolfo, a day dedicated to new olive oil during which a regional competition is staged between top-quality extra-virgin olive oils to award the Il novello di Romagna prize.
Markets
Cattolica Saturday
Saludecio Sunday
Mondaino Thursday
Montegridolfo Tuesday |
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