Belforte del Chienti
Exploring Belforte del Chienti: a hidden gem in the Marche region
Hello everyone, today I'll take you on a journey to discover Belforte del Chienti, a small town located in the province of Macerata, in the Marche region. With only 1795 inhabitants, this town is a true hidden gem nestled between the mountains and the sea.
Physical geography
Belforte del Chienti is located on a hilltop overlooking the Chienti River valley to the south, about 27 kilometers southwest of Macerata. Thanks to its geographical location, the town offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Sibillini Mountains and the surrounding hills.
History
The name of the town, "Bel Forte," comes from its strategic location and the presence of the castle built in the 12th century. Over the centuries, Belforte del Chienti was part of the domains of several cities and lordships, including Camerino, Tolentino, Francesco Sforza, and the Papal State. After the unification of Italy, the town became part of the Italian territory.
Monuments and places of interest
Belforte del Chienti offers numerous monuments and places of historical and artistic interest. Among these, the castle walls dating back to the 14th century, partly rebuilt in the 18th century and further restored in the last century. The parish church of Sant'Eustachio with its conical bell tower, dating back to the 17th-18th century. Inside the church, you can admire a polyptych from 1468 made by Giovanni Boccati, a wooden statue of San Sebastiano, and two 16th-century paintings.
Then there are other churches such as the one of San Sebastiano built in 1479, the church of San Giovanni with paintings attributed to Giovanni Andrea De Magistris, and the abbey of the Silvestrine Fathers, built in the 17th century, where you can admire a Byzantine copper cross. Finally, Casa Bonfranceschi, a noble palace built between the 17th and 18th centuries, is another important monument that the town offers.
Society
With only 1795 inhabitants, Belforte del Chienti is a calm and peaceful town, ideal for living away from the chaos of big cities. The demographic evolution of the town has been constantly increasing in recent years.
Economy
Belforte del Chienti is a town that offers numerous traditional activities, including craftsmanship. Leatherworking is one of these and represents one of the main activities of the town.
In conclusion, Belforte del Chienti is a hidden treasure in the Marche region, an ideal place for those who want to live in a calm and peaceful town surrounded by nature. The town offers numerous monuments and places of historical and artistic interest, making it a perfect place for a day trip with loved ones. Come and discover Belforte del Chienti, and you won't regret it.
