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 >>>
