Set between the rolling hills of Le Marche and the shimmering Adriatic Sea, Ancona Province is a striking tapestry of coastal cliffs, ancient cities, lush countryside, and vibrant culture. It’s a place where natural beauty meets human creativity, home to grand cathedrals, white pebble beaches, Renaissance art, and some of Italy’s finest seafood. Despite its riches, Ancona remains refreshingly unspoiled and underexplored by mass tourism.
Whether you're a culture seeker, beach lover, hiking enthusiast, or culinary explorer, Ancona Province promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of central Italy.
Province of Ancona, Le Marche
The City of Ancona: A Port of Time and Beauty
Founded by Greek settlers in the 4th century BC, the city of Ancona, the provincial capital, has long served as a key port on the Adriatic Sea. While often bypassed for better-known cities, Ancona rewards visitors with an authentic blend of maritime energy and layered history.
The city unfolds along a promontory, with stunning views over the sea. The most iconic sight is the Duomo of San Ciriaco, a Romanesque-Gothic cathedral set atop Guasco Hill. From here, you can gaze across the harbor and admire the curvature of the coast.
Nearby, the Arch of Trajan, a 1st-century Roman triumphal arch, stands as a testament to Ancona’s ancient roots. The Lazzaretto of Ancona, a pentagonal fortress once used to quarantine ships during plagues, now hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
Art lovers should visit the Pinacoteca Civica "Francesco Podesti", where masterpieces by Crivelli, Titian, and Lotto await. For those craving a lively local experience, the Mercato delle Erbe (Herb Market) is a sensory feast of fresh produce, cheeses, and Marchegian specialties.
Riviera del Conero: White Cliffs and Turquoise Waters
South of the city lies one of the most spectacular coastlines in all of Italy, the Riviera del Conero. This 20-kilometer stretch of coast is a protected area, part of the Parco del Conero, where limestone cliffs plunge into crystalline waters.
Portonovo is a tranquil bay beloved for its clear sea, seafood restaurants, and the 11th-century Church of Santa Maria di Portonovo, a Romanesque gem set right by the waves.
Sirolo, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a perfect mix of charm and nature. This hilltop town offers breathtaking views, elegant piazzas, and access to beaches like San Michele and Sassi Neri, reachable only by foot or shuttle.
Numana, once a Roman fishing port, is now a picturesque village with a colorful harbor, pebble beaches, and artisan boutiques.
Hiking trails wind through the Conero hills, offering sweeping views and leading to secluded beaches like Mezzavalle and Due Sorelle, named after the twin rock formations that rise from the sea. These beaches are accessible only by boat or steep trails, making them pristine and peaceful.
Inland Treasures: Art, Faith, and Hilltop Towns
Ancona Province isn’t just about the sea, it’s also rich in culture and landscape inland. Rolling hills covered in sunflowers, olive trees, and vineyards surround timeless towns and abbeys.
Loreto is one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in the world. The Basilica della Santa Casa houses what is believed to be the home of the Virgin Mary, brought from Nazareth by angels according to legend. The basilica itself is a stunning mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
Osimo is known for its underground tunnels and mysterious sculptures. The town also offers Roman ruins, medieval walls, and the beautiful Cathedral of San Leopardo.
Jesi, the birthplace of Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, boasts imposing walls, noble palaces, and the remarkable Pinacoteca Civica, where Lorenzo Lotto’s paintings dazzle visitors. Jesi is also the heart of the Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi wine region, home to one of Italy’s finest white wines.
Cingoli, often called “The Balcony of the Marche,” offers sweeping views that on clear days stretch as far as the Adriatic Sea. Its historical center, peaceful vibe, and nearby Lago di Cingoli make it a favorite for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Flavors of Ancona: From Sea to Countryside
The cuisine of Ancona Province is a celebration of both sea and land. Along the coast, seafood reigns supreme:
Brodetto all’Anconetana is a rich fish stew, traditionally made with 13 types of fish and tomatoes, flavored with vinegar and served with toasted bread. It’s a must-try dish in local trattorias.
Stoccafisso all’anconetana (salted cod in tomato sauce with potatoes and olives) is a slow-cooked specialty that embodies the city’s maritime soul.
Moscioli di Portonovo, wild mussels harvested near the Conero cliffs, are a local delicacy with protected status (Presidio Slow Food).
Inland, meat, pasta, and wine take center stage:
Vincisgrassi, a baked pasta dish similar to lasagna but more indulgent, is often enriched with meat ragù and béchamel.
Coniglio in porchetta (rabbit with wild fennel and garlic) is a rustic countryside favorite.
Pair these dishes with Verdicchio, the region’s star white wine, or Rosso Conero, a robust red produced on the slopes of Mount Conero.
Festivals, Music, and Traditions
Ancona Province keeps its traditions alive with vibrant festivals and cultural events throughout the year:
Summer operas in Sirolo, jazz concerts in Numana, and religious processions in Loreto bring art and spirituality together.
The Festa del Mare in Ancona honors the city’s seafaring heritage with parades, seafood tastings, and fireworks.
In Jesi, the Palio di San Floriano transforms the town into a medieval fairground, complete with costumes, falconry, and historical reenactments.
These events offer travelers not just entertainment, but a deep connection to local identity and pride.
In Summary
The Province of Ancona offers a captivating mix of natural splendor, artistic heritage, seaside bliss, and heartfelt tradition. From the soaring cathedral in Ancona city to the hidden beaches of the Conero coast, from hilltop wine towns to sacred basilicas, this corner of Le Marche delivers Italy at its most authentic and diverse.
It’s a place to hike in the morning, swim in the afternoon, sip wine at sunset, and dine under medieval walls as the stars rise. For those who seek depth over glamour, Ancona Province is a treasure waiting to be explored.
