Ripe San Ginesio
A trip to Ripe San Ginesio: the pearl of the Marche region
Hi friends! Today I want to take you on a journey to a charming place: Ripe San Ginesio, a town of just over 800 inhabitants located in the province of Macerata, in the Marche region.
Origin of the name
The name Ripe San Ginesio derives from the union of the word "ripe", which means "steep and unstable slope", with the name of San Ginesio, a town to which Ripe was subjugated in 1255.
History
The town of Ripe San Ginesio has a medieval imprint that can still be admired through its narrow streets, squares and suggestive staircases. In the 13th century, the town was subjected to the city walls of San Ginesio. However, until the mid-13th century, Ripe had no walls because its development was foreseen as a settlement placed "extra moenia". Today, only the Leonina Tower of the ancient walls remains.
Monuments and places of interest
Ripe San Ginesio is rich in monuments and places of historical interest, including the Leonina Tower, the symbol of the town, so named after the Pope Leo X who decided to build it. The parish church of San Michele Arcangelo, dedicated to the patron saint of the town, preserves a chapel painted by Lamberto Massetani and an "Addolorata Madonna" by the artist Umberto Peschi. The Municipal Contemporary Art Gallery was created thanks to donations made on the occasion of "RipeArte", an art exhibition set up annually in the alleys and squares of the village since 1982, thanks to the initiative of artists and residents. The Church of San Silvestro, located outside the town, offers a suggestive view of the surrounding valley. The Civic Tower also doubles as the parish bell tower and is the seat of the tourist office. Finally, the La Cava Arena has been used for shows and cultural events.
Society
The population of Ripe San Ginesio is 816 inhabitants. The town does not have a major football team, however the local team, Avis Ripe San Ginesio, which plays in the Marche Third Category, plays home games at the synthetic field of Loro Piceno.
Culture
Ripe San Ginesio has a very interesting cultural heritage, with local proverbs and sayings such as "Costa come le Ripe a San Ginesio" and "Se San Vicino mette il cappello, vendi la capra e compra il mantello, se San Vicino sbraca vendi il mantello e compra la capra". In addition, the town celebrates the feast of its patron saint, San Michele Arcangelo, every year on September 29th.
Administration
Like every municipality, Ripe San Ginesio has its own mayor and municipal council.
Photo gallery
I leave you with some images of the Marche pearl, hoping to have intrigued you enough to make you want to visit Ripe San Ginesio.
Conclusions
Ripe San Ginesio is a must-see destination for those visiting the Marche region, a true hidden gem that deserves to be discovered. The inhabitants of this town are welcoming and friendly, and you will appreciate the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere that can be felt in every corner of the town. Discover with your own eyes the elegance of the Leonina Tower and the beauty of the San Michele Arcangelo church, and taste the local specialties in restaurants and typical taverns. Come and visit Ripe San Ginesio and you will be enchanted!
