Fossombrone is a historic town in the province of Pesaro and Urbino, set in the middle Metauro Valley along the route of the ancient Via Flaminia. Its origins date back to Roman times and are closely connected to the ancient settlement of Forum Sempronii, an important centre that developed along the Roman consular road. Today, the Archaeological Park of Forum Sempronii still preserves valuable remains from this period, offering a fascinating insight into life in the ancient Roman town.

Walking through the historic centre reveals numerous buildings of remarkable historical and artistic importance. Among the most significant religious landmarks are the Church of San Filippo, the 14th-century Church of Sant’Agostino, the Church of San Francesco and the Cathedral, distinguished by its elegant neoclassical façade.

The monumental heart of the town is defined by its prestigious historic palaces. The Corte Bassa, once the residence of the Dukes of Urbino, and the Corte Alta, also known as the Palazzo Ducale and enlarged during the 15th century by Francesco di Giorgio Martini, are among the symbolic buildings of Fossombrone. Today, these spaces house the Civic Art Gallery and the “Augusto Vernarecci” Civic Museum, which preserves archaeological finds ranging from prehistoric times to the Roman era, including an extensive section dedicated to Forum Sempronii.

The historic centre is also home to the 16th-century Palazzo Cattabeni, Palazzo Dedi with its distinctive rusticated façade, and the Town Hall, all contributing to the refined architectural character of the town.

Overlooking Fossombrone from above is the fortified Cittadella, where the remains of the pentagonal Rocca Malatestiana can still be seen. Within the complex stands the Church of Sant’Aldebrando, set in one of the most panoramic and evocative spots in the area.

Along Via Pergamino, on the road towards Urbino, lies Palazzo Pergamini-Negri, home to the Quadreria Cesarini, an important collection featuring more than sixty paintings and graphic works by Anselmo Bucci, alongside numerous works of modern and contemporary art.