Montefiore dell'Aso
Montefiore dell'Aso: A Small Town with a Great History
Montefiore dell'Aso is a small town in the Marche region with a long and interesting history. Located at an altitude of 412 m, Montefiore is situated on a ridge that divides the valleys of Aso and Menocchia. With its population of 1979, Montefiore is a charming place where the city and the countryside merge harmoniously. In this article, we will talk about the physical geography, the history of the town, the symbols, and the main monuments to visit.
Physical Geography
Montefiore dell'Aso is a hilly town near Ascoli Piceno. It is situated between the valleys of Aso and Menocchia and is perched on the ridge that divides the two valleys. The town has an altitude of 412 m and is surrounded by a beautiful landscape of hills, fields, and woods. Montefiore is strategically located and provides an exceptional panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
History
Montefiore dell'Aso has a very ancient history that dates back to prehistoric times. Archaeological finds testify to the presence of populations already in Roman times. During the Middle Ages, the town became a free municipality thanks to the merger of the two castles of Montefiore and Aspramonte. The castle of Montefiore was contested for several years between the Ascolani and Fermani, but in 1421 a solemn commitment to peace was signed.
The name Montefiore could derive from the cult of Flora, the protector of the countryside, and worshiped by the Italic peoples. The symbol of the town indeed takes up this legend, with five hills from which five flowers sprout and two rivers that flow on the sides.
Symbols
The emblem of Montefiore dell'Aso has five hills from which five flowers sprout and two rivers on the sides. The gonfalon is a garnet red cloth. The symbol derives from the Statutes of 1569 and takes up the legend of the cult of Flora.
Monuments and Places of Interest
Montefiore dell'Aso is a town rich in monuments and places of interest. Some of the most important ones are:
The Church of San Francesco: This church in Romanesque-Gothic style was built in 1303 and renovated in 1600. Inside there are the sepulchral monument of the parents of Cardinal Gentile Partino, built in 1310, the tomb of the Montefioran painter and engraver Adolfo De Carolis, and the 14th-century frescoes of the Maestro of Offida with scenes from the life of Christ.
The Collegiate Church of Santa Lucia: Dedicated to the patron saint of Montefiore, the church was rebuilt in the 19th century. Inside you can admire a wooden choir and a 17th-century stone holy water font, frescoes by Luigi Fontana, and a reliquary from the 18th century containing the finger of the patron saint Santa Lucia.
The Church of San Filippo Neri: Dating back to 1600, this church was the seat of the Congregation of the Oratorians. Inside there is the shrine with the body of San Fedele martyr and the urn with the ashes of the painter Domenico Cantatore.
The Church and Convent of Corpus Domini: The construction of this church and convent took place between 1663 and 1687. Today it is the seat of the Dominican sisters.
The Walls and Gates: The center of Montefiore has broad original stretches of walls, with six defensive towers and several gates.
Montefiore dell'Aso is a place where history can still be felt today. Visiting this town means immersing oneself in a timeless cultural and artistic heritage.
Conclusions
Montefiore dell'Aso is a small town in the Marche hinterland that offers a unique experience for those who love history, art, and nature. With its monuments, walls, and gates, the town offers a unique atmosphere and a breathtaking view. If you want to spend a weekend discovering the beauties of our country, Montefiore dell'Aso could be a perfect destination for you.
