Cartoceto is a village that still preserves the authentic charm of the small historic towns of the Marche region. Mentioned as early as the 12th century as a fortified settlement protected by defensive walls, it was considered one of the key strategic strongholds guarding the territory of Fano. Much of the ancient fortress and its fortifications, however, were destroyed by the devastating earthquake of 13 July 1572.

At the heart of the historic centre lies Piazza Garibaldi, once the village marketplace, overlooked by the Palazzo del Popolo, a medieval building dating back to the 14th century and crowned by its distinctive clock tower. Beneath the palace, the original entrance to the castle can still be seen, once equipped with a drawbridge. The village has also retained its original “herringbone” urban layout, with narrow lanes, stairways and hidden passageways following the contours of the hill.

Among the most notable landmarks are Palazzo Marcolini and Piazzale Marconi, a panoramic terrace affectionately known by locals as “La Turchia”, from where the arrival of Saracen pirates along the coast was once monitored. The square is also home to the Teatro del Trionfo, created in the 18th century inside a former olive mill and still preserving remarkable historic stage elements, including its original 19th-century theatre curtain.

The town’s religious heritage is equally significant, with highlights including the Collegiata di Santa Maria della Misericordia, the convent of the Augustinian Fathers, the Church of Santa Maria del Soccorso and the Parish Church of Saints Peter and Paul.

Cartoceto is also deeply rooted in its food and wine traditions. In June, the village hosts “Cartoceto con Gusto e Tradizione”, an event celebrating the traditional Marche dish vincisgrassi, while November brings “Cartoceto DOP”, the historic festival dedicated to olive oil and olives, showcasing the area’s renowned PDO extra virgin olive oil. Thanks to its strong olive-growing heritage, Cartoceto is also among the founding members of the National Association of Olive Oil Towns.