Experience the charm of a small market with near Metauro River.
The course of the Metauro River (the longest in the Marche) offers several spectacular waterfalls and meets some villages with an incomparable historical charm. one of them is Mercatello on Metaura, a medieval village that rests on the river with its Romanesque bridge and owes its past splendor to the prestige of the commercial crossroads.
In the 13th century, it became the home of the entire population of the seven surrounding castles, and thanks to its “small market”, as the literal meaning of its name sounds, it turned into a strategically fortified village. Today it is a town belonging to the circuit of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, has been awarded the orange flag of the Italian Tourist Club, and is one of the most delightful places to visit in this section of the Apennines.
Motorcycle itinerary in Mercatello sul Metauro
Map
Way
From the capital Pesaro after SS16 you get to Fano. Take the SS73 bis to Fossombrone and continue towards Acqualagna. Continue along the same road that goes towards Urbania and Sant’Angelo in Vado. The next town is Mercatello Sul Metauro, the destination of the route, which has a total time of about an hour and a quarter. Alternative route: from Pesaro head straight ahead of Urbino (SP423) and then Calpino and Fermignano to then reach Sant’Angelo in Vado and Mercatello. In this case, the trip takes about an hour and a half.
Mercatello sul Metauro Museums
The most interesting museum in the city is the San Francesco Museum, located near the Church of San Francesco (13th century); inside, in addition to the architectural structure in a style between Gothic and Roman, you can admire valuable works and frescoes by the best local artists. The museum is also worth a visit Collegiate parish church, in the heart of the central Piazza Garibaldi: there are also paintings by important artists. It is also in the Piazza Garibaldi Collection of Contemporary Art which is located in the basement of Palazzo Gasparini, which exhibits works by internationally known artists.
See also: Here is the smallest city in Italy, it is beautiful and close
Small Market near Romanesque bridge
Nestled within a remote locale lies a hidden gem awaiting discovery: the majestic Romanesque bridge spanning the tranquil waters of the Metauro river. While reaching this idyllic spot may require a journey off the beaten path, the reward is unparalleled—a glimpse of architectural splendor and a step back in time. The bridge, adorned with three elegant arches, serves as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of ancient civilizations, inviting visitors to marvel at its enduring beauty.
Venturing further into the heart of the historic center reveals yet another facet of its allure: a tapestry of stone houses and winding streets steeped in medieval charm. Each cobblestone pathway whispers tales of bygone eras, evoking a sense of nostalgia for times long past. As one meanders through these quaint thoroughfares, the essence of medieval life permeates the air, transporting visitors to a realm where history and heritage intertwine seamlessly.
Waterfalls on Metauro
Along the course of the Metauro River, you can find very picturesque waterfalls, which make this river a place of great scenic interest. The most famous waterfall is the waterfall Calculus (also called Balza del Metauro), which is located a few km from Mercatello, more precisely in Sant’Angelo in Vado. In terms of its dimensions – it is 12 meters high and 60 meters wide – it is the largest found in this area. A tourist sign on the main road shows the direction to go. The natural history site offers two views: one to look at the waterfall from above and the other to see it from below; both offer excellent views of the waterfall, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Italy.