A small gem, a few miles from Rimini, Santarcangelo di Romagna retains an aura of mystery and legend. First we find its fortress, the supposed location of Paolo and Francesca’s passionate tryst (characters in Dante’s Divine Comedy), and then, we encounter its incredible labyrinth of underground tunnels making up a veritable ‘city under the city’. In summer, the narrow streets dotted with shops selling local delicacies and handmade products come alive with fairs, festivals and events. One not to be missed is the Festival Internazionale del Teatro in Piazza, a week-long theatre festival featuring high quality shows, readings and performances.
Umberto Eco called the village of San Leo, in the province of Rimini, “the most beautiful city in Italy”.
Those who visit will soon understand why. The aura here is timeless, as is its breathtaking location on top of a spur of rock. Wander through the narrow streets surrounded by perfectly-preserved walls and climb up to the austere fortress which once imprisoned the alchemist, Cagliostro. This local character is remembered from 24th to 26th August during the Alchimialchimie event, whose program plays on the theme of esotericism and beyond. Fans of good music, on the other hand, should take a look at the San Leo Festival which brings highly respected names in the music industry to play in the stunning setting.
Mystery lovers will be fascinated by the legend of the Azzurrina ghost at Castello di Montebello. The castle can be visited by day or (for the more courageous) at night. It contains worldly treasures such as precious original furnishings, and a careful restoration has made it a monument of great historical value.
Less well-known but equally fascinating, is the legend of the Horseman Ghost at the imposing Bardi Fortress. Perhaps the best example of military architecture in Emilia, the fortress was recently restored to its full splendour. It’s now open to visitors and hosts special activities for children and adults, including “spine-chilling” nighttime visits.
Among the most beautiful villages in Italy, Dozza (BO) offers visitors a truly unique experience. Every year more than 200 artists paint the walls of the village houses, creating original and eye-catching art pieces spread across Dozza’s streets and squares. A veritable outdoor museum, the Biennale d’Arte del “Muro Dipinto” (Biennial Exhibition of the “Painted Wall”) is now in its 18th edition. The streets of the medieval center converge at the beautiful Rocca Sforzesca fortress, which hosts concerts, shows and tastings of local products like Albana wine throughout the summer months.
Countless local fairs and festivals bring summer nights in the villages of Emilia Romagna to life. Feast on food and wines of exceptional quality and partake in a healthy dose of fun along the coast. The close proximity of the sea and countryside allows visitors to easily enjoy a day at the beach alternated with nature walks, visits to fortresses and castles, concerts, exhibitions and theatre performances.
In Emilia Romagna, summer days are long and full of pleasant surprises! Book your stay in a typical farmhouse to make the most of your experience.
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