Verucchio in Romagna is one of the “Most Beautiful Small Towns in Italy” and has may great treasures waiting to be explored.
Close to Rimini and San Marino
Strategically situated less than 30 minutes’ drive from Rimini and on the border with the State of San Marino, Verucchio, which has held the Touring Club’s Orange Flag since 2005, was the cradle of the Malatesta family in the 13th century, It also bears witness to the Villanovan civilization (9th and 6th centuries BC) and today still retains its medieval layout, consisting of steep narrow streets with the fortress at the top of the town.
ph credits: Elisa Biagioli
The magnificent Malatesta fortress
The Malatesta Fortress of Verucchio overlooks the Valmarecchia from a rocky outcrop, offering a view stretching from the Apennines to the sea. This superbly preserved fortress remains a symbol of the power of the Malatesta family, one of the most influential dynasties of the Middle Ages, which ruled these lands unchallenged from 1295 to 1500. The fortress offers a diverse range of immersive experiences, from guided tours to candlelit events, escape rooms and murder mystery dinners, as well as private events.
The Villanovan Archaeological Museum
A visit to the nearby Villanovan Archaeological Museum further enriches the exploration of this small village, allowing visitors to delve deeper into its historical roots by recounting the social and economic life of the time. In the former monastery of Sant’Agostino, dating back to the 13th century, the museum holds treasures of international significance from the excavations of over 600 tombs discovered beneath the town. Among the weapons, pottery and jewellery, highlights include a wooden throne, incredibly well-preserved organic textiles and a large quantity of precious Baltic amber. It is no coincidence that the Archaeological Museum was recognised in 2000 as one of the 10 best in Europe.
ph credits: Elisa Biagioli
Local cuisine, dancing and folklore
Verucchio also hosts various events, particularly during the summer months. These include the Verucchio Music Festival in July; shows, re-enactments and medieval dinners at the Rocca in August; and, also in August, Verucchio Calici, during which visitors can discover and taste the region’s finest wines. And then in mid-September the Fiera di Santa Croce offers a feast of local cuisine, dancing and folklore.
