1st DAY
Morning: Meeting point and departure time for
the guided tour. Guided tour of Macerata (314
metres above sea level). Chief town of the Province, it's an important
historical and artistic centre, especially rich in renaissance and
baroque monuments. The visit includes the sanctuary Madonna
della Misericordia, erected on Vanvitelli's project during
the first half of the 18th century; the Cathedral;
the Piazza della Libertà with the elegant Loggia
dei Mercanti and the theatre Lauro Rossi,
built in 1767 to designs by Antonio Bibiena; the Museo delle
Carrozze, with vehicles and sedans of various type and eras.
The art gallery that accommodates painting of Umbro-Marchigian
origin from the 14th to 19th centuries; the Sferisterio,
built as a venue for a popular ball game that nowadays hosts the important Macerata
Opera Festival. Free time for refreshment.
Afternoon: Guided tour of Recanati (297
metres above sea level). The town is wella known because it was the birthplace
of the poet Giacomo Leopardi, whose poetry was strongly inspired by his
town. Recanati was also the birthplace of the famous tenor Beniamino
Gigli, to whom the town has dedicated the Museo Beniamino Gigli,
with photos, personal memorabilia, and costumes worn by Gigli in his
performances. The Pinacoteca Civica boasts a rich collection
of important works, including the superb Annunciation by Lorenzo Lotto. End
of services.
2nd DAY >>>
