Ancona is a historic port city located on the central coast of Italy , the capital of the Marche region, on the shores of the Adriatic Sea . Founded by the Greeks and developed by the Romans, Ancona combines a significant historical legacy with a strong maritime character, and today is a strategic communications hub and an interesting cultural and coastal destination.
Ancona's historic center unfolds across hills overlooking the sea and boasts invaluable monuments such as the Arch of Trajan , one of the best-preserved Roman arches, located next to the port and a symbol of the city. Also noteworthy are the Romanesque-Byzantine Cathedral of San Ciriaco , perched atop Mount Guasco with spectacular panoramic views, and the Piazza del Plebiscito , the social and monumental heart of the old town.
The port of Ancona has been key to its history and remains one of the most important on the Adriatic, with maritime connections to Croatia , Greece , and the Balkans . The port promenade and areas like the Lungomare Vanvitelli allow visitors to enjoy the coastal atmosphere, while nearby beaches such as Passetto , Mezzavalle , and Portonovo , located within the Monte Conero Natural Park , offer coves and sandy shores of great natural beauty, ideal for relaxation and swimming.
The local cuisine reflects Ancona 's seafaring tradition, with iconic dishes like brodetto all'anconetana , alongside fresh fish, seafood, and wines from the Marche region. With a good selection of hotels , a strategic location, and easy access to destinations such as the Riviera del Conero , Urbino , and the region's mountainous interior, Ancona has established itself as an authentic destination that combines history, sea, and culture in the heart of the Italian Adriatic.
