Tour of the medieval fortresses of the Malatesta family.
The area around Rimini is full of ancient fortresses of the noble Malatesta family, who ruled the area in the 14th century.
From Rimini it takes an hour to reach three ancient towns in the Valconca valley: Saludecio,
Mondaino and Montegridolfo, “authentic Italian villages” nestled in the mountains.
Saludecio is steeped in archaic and mysterious charm. Its characteristic profile on the sea side stands out clearly against the mountains with its spires, towers and high walls.
Saludecio played an important role in the valley of the Conca River from the 16th to the 19th century. The harmonious urban structure of this settlement speaks of its past. Entering through the 15th-century gate, Porta Marina, pass to the parish church of San Biagio, a “little cathedral” that houses the sanctuary-sanctuary with the relics of Beato Amato Ronconi and a museum dedicated to him, rich in valuable religious art. Also worth seeing are the Palazzo Albani, the city tower of Torre Civica, the Church and Monastery of the Convento dei Gerolomini, the gates of Porta Montanara, the cramped streets painted with murals on many different social themes. The parish church houses a rich collection of religious art, as well as a gallery with paintings by Cagnacci, Ridolfi – nicknamed “Veronese”, Centino and Guerrini.
Annually in early August, the Ottocento Festival is held here, immersing you in the atmosphere of the 19th century: theatre performances, plays, vernissages, refreshments, exhibitions.
Mondaino – daino is Latin for “doe” and mon is from the word monte for “mountain”. Therefore, the name of the town is translated as “Mountain of the fallow deer”. In Mondaino, from the fortress walls of the Malatestian Castle, you can enjoy a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. The centre of the city is Piazza Maggiore, a gem of 19th century architecture with neoclassical porticoes by architect Francesco Coschi. Locals call it the “frying pan”. It is here that the city’s most important events take place. The Church of San Michele Arcangelo with paintings and altars “paliotto” – decorative panels of the altars and the Cloister of Clarisse. Every year in August Mondaino hosts the Festival of Paglio del Daino (Tournament of Lani), one of the most interesting festivals in Italy, which is strictly monitored by the organising committee.
Montegridolfo – is located on the border between Emilia-Romagna and Marche. The landscape is pleasant: the hills and the valley are pleasing to the eye. This old town retains the features of a medieval fortified fortress for several centuries, against all odds. It has been completely and meticulously restored and today represents the best preserved example of a Malatesta settlement. The historic centre deserves a thorough tour. The local government building Municipal Palace and Palazzo Viviani, now converted into a prestigious hotel, stand on the ruins of the fortress. The 14th century Church of San Rocco is interesting and moving. A few steps from the centre is the Gothic Line Museum, which was established on the site of a German observation post and is dedicated to commemorating the events of the Second World War.
