Fermo

Fermo whispers tales of ancient grandeur and exquisite craftsmanship. From its impressive Roman heritage to its modern-day status as a hub of luxury shoemaking, Fermo offers a unique blend of history, culture, and.. Italy.

The world’s most beautiful library

Step into Fermo’s past by descending into Italy’s largest Roman cisterns. These monumental underground chambers, a remarkable feat of Augustan-era engineering, were designed to collect and purify the city’s water supply, offering a cool, echoing glimpse into the ingenuity of a bygone era.

Ascend to the majestic Palazzo dei Priori, the heart of Fermo’s historic center, to discover the Romolo Spezioli Civic Library. Housed within the ancient Palazzo degli Studi and connected to the Palazzo dei Priori by a beautiful Renaissance loggia, this library is a treasure trove of knowledge. National Geographic has even hailed it as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Libraries. The library offers home to a magnificent 18th-century globe and a vast collection of ancient manuscripts and rare editions.

Explore & experience

Beyond its historical marvels, Fermo is renowned for its shoemaking heritage that continues to attract fashion enthusiasts. The region is home to prestigious luxury Italian brands like Tod’s and Hogan’s, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship and dedication to quality that defines Italian footwear. While direct factory tours might be limited, the presence of these global brands speaks to the deep-rooted tradition of fine leatherwork in the area.

For a moment of quiet contemplation or a panoramic view, head to the Girfalco hill, where the 13th-century Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral stands proudly. It has a richly decorated interior and is famous for its stunning rose window with an incredible vista of the surrounding countryside and the distant sea.

Local flavors

Fermo’s rich history extends to its winemaking practices, with a fascinating connection to ancient Roman techniques. A select few local winemakers, inspired by the Romans, have revived the tradition of crafting wines in amphorae. These unique IGT wines, produced with a blend of ancient methods and modern innovation, offer a truly distinctive tasting experience. Beyond these artisanal amphora wines, Fermo is celebrated for its local DOC white wine, Falerio Pecorino.

Also try Vino Cotto (a sweet cooked wine with a rich flavor) and Sapa (a syrup-like sweetener).

Fermo’s celebrated pasta is called Campofilone. Maccheroncini di Campofilone, in particular, is a local specialty so fine that it cooks in mere minutes.