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Ancona is located in central Italy, on the Adriatic coast. The charming port town is situated on two hills surrounding a harbor.

The name Ancona means “elbow” (from Greek ankon meaning ‘elbow’), referring to the shape of its geographical position. The history of Ancona dates back to the fourth century B.C. when it was settled by the ancient Greeks. This period was followed with development of the area by the ancient Romans. When the Roman times came to an end, Ancona entered a period of continuous change in its control. The Goths took over the area for a time, as did the Lombards and the Saracens.

Although mostly known as a modern port, not a tourist town, Ancona also has an appealing historic landmark – the medieval Cathedral of San Ciriaco. The stunning castle interior boasts of Byzantine art and houses a pagan temple in the crypt. From the Cathedral, you can watch the sun rising and setting on the sea. Ancona is the only place in the world to show such a particular phenomenon without being an island.

Other famous cultural sights worth visiting are The Sanctuary of the Holy House of Loreto, Museo Archeologico Nazionale della Marche, Museum of Paper and Watermark Fabriano, Raphael’s House, and Museum of Accordion Castelfidardo.

Ancona also boasts of three natural attractions: The Gola della Rossa Natural Park, Monte Conero Regional Natural Park, and The Velvet Beach.

The Gola della Rossa Natural Park features the Gola della Rossa, which is the most beautiful mountain gorge, and the Grotte di Frasassi, which extends for more than 18km inside the park.

The Monte Conero Regional Natural Park affords splendid panoramic views of the beautiful beaches, crystal clear seawater and splendour of the mountains.

The Velvet Beach, which is characterized by flat, wide sandy beaches, makes it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun. There is a gradual deepening of the sea, making it ideal for families with children.

Another attractive spot is the Conero Peninsula – especially if you’re into diving. The place offers good shore diving, quite good reef diving, and some excellent wreck diving. And due to the round, smooth nature of the rocks on the beach; it is easily possible to do excellent walk-in diving.

Ancona’s main diet come from the sea. A special dish they have is called Stoccafisso All’Anconitana — cod cooked with vegetables and herbs. Another great dish that makes Ancona worth visiting is the fish soup called ‘brodetto,’ an extremely rich soup, overflowing with many different residents of the sea, and served over fried or toasted slices of peasant bread.

One of Ancona’s famous restaurants specializing in sea foods is the Trattoria la Moretta. Known as the oldest continuously operating restaurants in Ancona, the Trattoria la Moretta is popular for lunching and dining because of its location in the historic center across the square from the Chiesa di San Domenico and the 13th century city gate.

If you like to party the night away, proceed to Porto Recanati, where you can find the region’s most popular clubs and bars.
When it comes to shopping for bargains, then you would like to shop from Ancona to San Benedetto del Tronto. Here you can find quality clothing at great prices. Hand crafting and manufacturing activities are famous in the area, so you can be sure to find unique souvenirs.

Ancona is most attractive to travelers, especially those who love the beach, during the summer months, when the beaches are warm enough for swimming.

If you’re a jazz lover, then you should consider visiting the place during the month of July, when Ancona holds an annual festival to celebrate the famous music. This festival lasts over the course of several days and includes performances at various venues.
If you’re a tango lover, then August is the best time to travel to Ancona.  Although Ancona is not the original home of the tango, it holds an annual festival during August to celebrate the famous dance.  Also during August, Ancona hosts the annual Summer Jamboree, where live bands and DJ’s from all throughout the world come to perform for the locals and travelers. Tourists, however, should know that August tends to be the rainiest season of the year.

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