Cerreto d'Esi
Discovering Cerreto d'Esi
Cerreto d'Esi is a small town located in the province of Ancona, in the heart of Marche. Its geographic location makes it an ideal place to combine the beauty of the mountains with that of the sea, as it is surrounded by the Apennine hills on one side and by the Esino river on the other, which flows into the Adriatic Sea.
Ancient and Modern History
The history of Cerreto d'Esi dates back to ancient times, when the first settlement was formed by some inhabitants of nearby Tuficum during the invasion of the Lombards. During the Greco-Gothic War, the settlement grew in size and was fortified, becoming a stronghold of General Belisarius. In the Middle Ages, the town acquired the faculty to legislate, and the village expanded regularly around the historic nucleus. Today, the town is rich in history and culture, as demonstrated by the civic tower known as Belisario's Tower, Porta Giustiniana and the Fountain of the Dolphins.
Monuments and Places of Interest
The town of Cerreto d'Esi is home to numerous monuments and places of interest. Among the most important is the Upper Gate or Porta Giustinianea, an entrance gate to the historic nucleus of the town. The bas-relief of the Siren is another attraction located in the main square, while the Fountain of the Dolphins is a circular basin with a column in the center on which stands the statue of three dolphins.
The town is also famous for the Tower, a civic tower that was built in the eighteenth century. Among the other monuments present are the ex-house Ottoni, the Agostino Tower, the church of Santa Maria della Piazza (Assumption), Santa Maria della Porta, the Annunciation, San Lorenzo, the oratory of San Rocco and San Sebastiano, Sant'Anna, San Giovanni Battista, Madonna delle Grazie and San Giovanni Evangelista.
The Church of Madonna della Venza
Another church that deserves special mention is the church of Madonna della Venza. It is a shrine built in the early seventeenth century and then transformed into a small church. The image of the Madonna della Quercia di Viterbo, patroness of the cerretesi emigrants to Viterbo, is represented in a very precious fresco located inside the church.
The Importance of Verdicchio di Matelica
Cerreto d'Esi is located in the renowned area of Verdicchio di Matelica. This is where the best wines from Marche are produced, which are appreciated all over the world for their quality and unique taste. The wineries are very active in the area and offer the opportunity to visit their vineyards and cellars, as well as organize guided tastings.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Cerreto d'Esi is a beautiful town that deserves to be discovered. Its geographic location, history, monuments and tourist attractions make it a perfect place for a quiet and relaxing vacation with family or friends. Moreover, thanks to the production of fine wines such as Verdicchio di Matelica, the town has become a reference point for lovers of good food and wine.
