Situated in the Marche region on the Adriatic sea coast, Fano boasts a splendid shoreline with limpid waters (awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness numerous times), typical fresh seafood restaurants and well-equipped beaches representing the perfect location for a totally relaxing holiday on the beach.
Fano also charms you with the marvels of its historical center; the Augustan Walls, the Arch of Augustus and the Church of Saint Augustine; genuine architectural treasures representing the Roman age.
While strolling through the town’s center, within the remnant walls of this ancient Roman city, you will discover old churches, monasteries, Medieval and Renaissance palaces, the neoclassic theatre ‘Teatro della Fortuna’ and the fountain of the blindfolded goddess, from which the antique city got its original name Fanum Fortunae, meaning “town of fortune” .
Other places not to miss are: the Church of San Pietro in Valle, sumptuously decorated with golden stuccoes and frescoes by the painter Antonio Viviani, the Basilica of Santa Maria Nuova, dating back to 1700, the archaeological museum and the art gallery. Not far from Fano, one can visit the enchanting Marche countryside with its beautiful old villages like Orciano, Sant’Ippolito e Fratterosa, Mondavio, Gradara, Pergola and Montegridolfo, each one with its own special charm, where the past and present come together to create a magical atmosphere for those who visit them.
Following along the old Flaminia road, after stopping to admire the natural reserve of Gola (Gorge) del Furlo, boasting unique specimens of flora and fauna, you can reach the village of Aqualagna famous for its white truffles. Definitely worth mentioning is Urbino, jewel of the Reinaissance and birthplace of the famous Italian painter and architect Raffaello. Nature lovers can’t miss a visit to Frasassi, one of the most important speleological sites in Europe.
events
Fano is well known all over Italy for its Carnival which attracts thousands of tourists every year (normally in February) when grandiose allegoric papier-mâché floats, made by the locals, parade down the main road. For three consecutive Sundays, tons of candy are thrown from the floats into the crowds of spectators, both young and old, who line the streets, many dressed in masquerade costumes and ready to participate in one of the many events that Fano’s Carnival has to offer.
During the summer Fano offers a variety of great music events like Fano Jazz by the Sea with international jazz musician guest stars, and the Rassegna Lirica Torelliana, a very important opera music festival.
The most important summer festival in Fano is by far, Fano dei Cesari, which takes places in July. This event celebrates Fano’s Roman origins when, for an entire week, the city recreates a genuine Roman era and the historical center is transformed into an epic Roman site where locals, and tourists alike, dress up in Roman costumes, participate in numerous events and are spectators to the chariot race that takes place on an authentic replica of an ancient Roman racetrack.
July is also the month that celebrates the more recent event of Notte in Bianco when the city of Fano remains open all night long to offer those who come numerous food stands and music stages, arts and crafts exhibitions and much more all night long! In September, enjoy the Festival del Brodetto, when skilled chefs compete to win the prize for the best fish soup.
In October, Fano celebrates the Fano International Film Festival, where upcoming directors compete for awards. A real cultural event for film lovers.