Lapedona to discover: an itinerary of the historic center

Imagine stepping through an ancient door, a portal that transports you back in time. You are in a mediaeval village, enveloped by mighty walls, that welcomes you with its narrow streets and stone houses. It is here, in the heart of the Marche region, that Lapedona is hidden, a jewel set among the hills, ready to reveal its secrets through a suggestive old town itinerary.

Get ready to stroll through its alleys, breathing in a unique atmosphere of history, tradition and tranquillity. Every corner of this medieval village has something to tell, an event from the past that remains alive in the present. Let yourself be enchanted by the charm of a time that seems to have stood still, and discover why Lapedona is an unmissable destination for those seeking authenticity and beauty

Our old town itinerary in the starts at the entrance gate that is still accessible: Porta Marina. It is a true piece of history; if it could speak, it would tell of all the people who have passed through here since it was built. The entrance dates back to the 14th century and was built with a pointed arch and adorned with Ghibelline merlons, which still make it fascinating today. The details carved into the stone have stood the test of time and are perfectly preserved: it takes us straight into the historical centre, the beating heart of Lapedona.

We leave Porta Marina behind us and proceed to discover the village of Lapedona. After only two minutes we arrive at one of the most evocative spots in the historic centre: Belvedere Loy. It cannot be missing from our itinerary because it is a natural terrace suspended between heaven and earth, offering a breathtaking view of the Marche hills.

A little regenerating pause to meditate, but also to reflect on the strategic position on which the medieval castle of Lapedona was built. From here, in fact, in the past it was possible to spot possible enemies in advance and prepare a suitable defensive strategy. Can you rediscover the fighting spirit of the inhabitants of Lapedona?

We continue on foot through the alleys of the village, here with short, pleasant walks you find new corners of paradise to admire. In fact, we discover another historical monument that also dates back to the 14th century: the Church of Santi Giacomo e Quirico, in Largo San Giacomo. It has undergone several restorations that have given it a neoclassical style and is the current parish church, hence the centre of religious life.

Inside you can admire several works, including the polyptych with the Madonna and Child, St James the Greater and St John the Baptist, attributed to the painter Pietro Alemanno. This church also houses a polychrome wooden statue dating back to the 16th century representing San Quirico: he is the patron saint of the municipality of Lapedona and a child martyr together with his mother Giulitta.

Leaving this place of worship, we head towards the main square, Piazza Giacomo Leopardi, which catches the eye for a series of historic buildings. The first is the Church of Saints Nicolò e Martino, which was rebuilt in 1585 thanks to the concession of Pope Gregory XIII. The church-auditorium houses a Vincenzo Paci Organ 1878: every year it hosts a stage of the Organ Review of the Marca Fermana.

Behind the imposing building, its bell tower rises. It has a single nave. Upon entering, you will be amazed by the ceiling, which is made of panels decorated by the Fermo painter Filippo Ricci. On the main altar, on the other hand, you can admire a painting by Simone De Magistris from 1596 depicting the Madonna and Child, St Michael Archangel, St Francis and St Quirico. Almost a museum for the importance of the works it contains!

As you leave the Church of Saints Nicholas and Martin , you will see the famous fountain in front of you, laid to celebrate the activation of the public aqueduct in 1900. On three sides it bears the coat of arms of Lapedona and an eagle stands at the top. This square is overlooked by the Palazzo Comunale, another fundamental point in the public life of Lapedona. It is a true symbol of civil power and represents the beating heart of the village. The building dates back to the 16th century, and you should not miss a walk under its porticoes: with its elegant arches, it is the ideal place to take a break and observe life in the square.

In the arcade, you can also admire a Roman-era tombstone with inscriptions and sculptures in relief. This building, with its exposed brick façade and carved stone portal, is also an example of Renaissance architecture. Inside, we can admire stuccoes and frescoes decorating the rooms, including the Council Chamber, where council meetings are still held today. Shall we continue on our itinerary of the old town?

Strolling through the old town of Lapedona is really pleasant, far from the traffic and the daily hustle and bustle you will discover historical buildings which, although restored, speak of times long gone and at the same time are part of the daily life of the village of Lapedona. Another very short two-minute walk takes us to our sixth stop: the Church of Saints Peter and Lawrence.

It was consecrated in 1798 and the façade has a linear design. The interior is unusual, with four side altars: the first on the left is dedicated to St Joseph and has a statue, the one on the right is dedicated to St Anthony Abbot. One of the riches of this place of worship is the presence of an organ with twelve registers: it is the work of master organist Gaetano Callido and the date attributed to it is 1794. Another piece of history preserved in the village of Lapedona!

Our old town itinerary of Lapedona has given you a taste of the atmosphere of this magical place, and it is an unforgettable experience! Its streets tell stories of centuries past, while its noble palaces hold priceless treasures. If you are looking for a place where you can lose yourself and find yourself again, Lapedona is the ideal destination.

The surrounding landscape is the perfect setting for lovers of nature and tranquillity. Visit Lapedona and discover the liveliness of a place that offers a holiday full of events, manifestations and chances for recreation and fun!