Serra de' Conti
Serra de' Conti: a journey into the history of the Marche region
If you are looking for a place rich in history and culture, Serra de' Conti is the right place for you. This Italian town, located in the province of Ancona, in the Marche region, has about 3595 inhabitants and offers a wide range of attractions that are worth discovering.
History
Origins
The origins of the settlement date back to the pre-Roman republic era when Umbrians, Piceni and Senonian Gauls inhabited the surrounding territory. Later, Serra de' Conti became an imperial fiefdom around the 12th century when it was ruled by a count directly dependent on the Marquis of Ancona. The toponym seems to derive from the presence of Count Rinaldo della Serra, belonging to the Counts of Genga, who often appears in documents from the 13th century.
During this period, the Benedictine monks of the Abbey of Santa Croce di Sassoferrato, agricultural colonizers of the upper Misa valley, built a castle or fortified village between the 12th and 13th centuries.
The "Republic Æsina"
Around 1230, the small rural nobility constituted itself into a sort of committee inspired by the Free Municipality and, in 1244, the name Serra de' Conti appeared for the first time in documents. However, in 1248 the city entered into an agreement and a kind of submission destined to last over time with the Municipality of Jesi.
Serra de' Conti was involved in the struggles between the Guelfs and the Ghibellines, subject, like other castles in the area, to nearby Castelli di Jesi, which exercised hegemony over the surrounding territory at this time and was of Ghibelline persuasion. Between 1250 and 1260, however, a middle class grew and developed to the point that the figure of the Captain of the People was instituted in 1254.
With the expansion of the municipal territory, a series of conflicts arose with neighboring communities over boundaries. Conflicts with Rocca Contrada (Arcevia) and Jesi continued until the end of the 15th century.
The Holy See
The Holy See claimed its authority over the city and the castles of the Marche. In fact, the first Vatican document mentioning Serra de' Conti dates back to 1270-80 when the city was among the "immediate subjecte" centers of the apostolic see, administered by the provincial Curia government of the Marche. During the alliances promoted towards anti-imperial ends, the Curia recognized a certain autonomy in the election of magistrates. After the defeat of the Hohenstaufen in 1268, Rome strengthened its hegemony by directly controlling appointments. This led to a period of great political instability throughout the region, with continuing wars and rebellions that saw Serra newly bound to Jesi and at the mercy of its strategic choices.
What to see in Serra de' Conti
In addition to its rich history, Serra de' Conti offers numerous points of tourist interest. One of the most beautiful monuments in the town is certainly the Palazzo Comunale, built in the sixteenth century. The building houses a Civic Museum that preserves Roman and medieval artifacts. The Church of San Francesco, dating back to the thirteenth century, is another place of great historical and cultural interest.
But the real pearl of Serra de' Conti is undoubtedly the Municipal Library, located inside the Palazzo Comunale. Founded in 1880, this library was renovated in 2016 and today preserves a vast collection of ancient and modern books. Librarians are always available to provide information on all types of publications, from history books to tourist guides.
Although the municipality is small, it also offers many opportunities for hikers and nature lovers. There are numerous trails that allow for long walks immersed in nature and to admire breathtaking landscapes.
What to eat in Serra de' Conti
Visitors to Serra de' Conti cannot leave without tasting the famous Biscotto di Serra dei Conti. This traditional sweet is made with eggs, flour, sugar and flavorings and is sold in various variations. In addition, the municipality is known for the production of olive oil and wine.
Conclusion
Serra de' Conti is a place rich in history, culture and traditions that will not disappoint the expectations of its visitors. In addition to historic sites, there are also numerous opportunities for nature and culinary enthusiasts. Do not miss the opportunity to visit this beautiful Marche municipality during your next vacation!
