What to see in Ancona: 15 stops between historic port, unique museums and panoramic map

If you arrive in Ancona by sea, the first thing you see is precisely it: Trajan's Arch, standing white and imposing on the northern pier of the port. It's not just a triumphal arch, but a true symbol of the city, built in 115 AD to celebrate the expansion of the port commissioned by Emperor Trajan. What strikes you immediately is its position: it practically overlooks the water, as if it still watches over the ships entering and leaving today. It's made of Proconnesian marble, that bright white marble from Turkey, and despite the centuries, it retains a surprising elegance. Climbing the steps leading to its base, you notice the architectural details: the fluted columns, the niches that once housed statues (unfortunately lost today), the Latin inscriptions recounting the dedication to the emperor. Personally, I enjoy observing it at sunset, when the warm sunlight enhances the white of the marble and creates suggestive plays of shadow. It's not a monument you visit for hours; just a few minutes are enough to admire it, but it's worth pausing to read the informational panels explaining its history. It's one of the few Roman arches in Italy still in its original context, not moved or isolated, and this gives it a particular charm. If you're lucky enough to pass by here on a sunny day, the contrast between the white marble, the blue of the sea, and the green of the hills in the background is a spectacle you won't easily forget. A tip? Bring a camera, because the shots from the opposite pier are simply perfect.

The Vanvitellian Mole is one of those places that strikes you from afar, with its pentagonal shape emerging from the waters of Ancona's harbor. It's not just a historic building, but a true artificial islet built in the 18th century based on a design by Luigi Vanvitelli, the same architect behind the Royal Palace of Caserta. Originally conceived as a lazaretto to isolate contagious patients, it has had various lives over time: from a tobacco warehouse to a military hospital. Today, it has become a vibrant cultural hub, and in my opinion, this transformation is the most fascinating aspect. You reach it by crossing a pedestrian bridge, and immediately you breathe a particular atmosphere, suspended between past and present. Inside, it houses the State Tactile Museum Omero, a unique experience in Italy dedicated to the tactile perception of art, perfect also for families with children. Then there are exhibition spaces hosting temporary shows, often of contemporary art, and this contrast between 18th-century architecture and modern installations is truly suggestive. Events, concerts, and cultural festivals are not lacking, especially in summer. My advice is to go up to the panoramic terrace: from there, the view of the harbor, the sea, and the city is priceless, especially at sunset. Sometimes I wonder what it must have been like to live there when it was a lazaretto, with that silence broken only by the waves. Today, instead, it's a place full of life, yet it retains its mysterious aura intact. A detail I like: the pentagonal shape is not accidental but was designed to optimize ventilation and sanitary control. Genius, for its time.

If you think archaeological museums are dusty, the National Archaeological Museum of the Marche will change your mind. Located in Palazzo Ferretti, a Renaissance building that's worth a visit in itself, this museum is a concentrated history of the Marche region, from the Iron Age to the Roman era. What struck me immediately is the layout: modern, airy, with well-marked paths that guide you without making you feel overwhelmed. The section dedicated to the Picenes is perhaps the most fascinating: here you'll discover that this ancient people were not just warriors but also skilled artisans. Take a close look at the funerary items, with those fibulae and vases that seem to tell stories of daily life. Then there are the Greek artifacts, which testify to Ancona's trade with the Eastern Mediterranean—no wonder the city was already an important port back then. And the Romans? Well, they couldn't be missing: the collection of inscriptions and sculptures gives you an idea of how lively life was in this colony. Personally, I spent a good hour in front of the tomb of the 'Lady of Numana', with its rich collection of amber and gold jewelry—an exceptional find that makes you imagine an already sophisticated society. The museum isn't huge, but it's dense with content: if you're passionate about history, you could easily lose half a day without realizing it. Just be mindful of the hours: it's usually closed on Mondays, but always check in advance because there are sometimes variations. A heartfelt tip: don't skip the bookshop, where you'll find interesting publications (and not just the usual souvenirs) on local history. And if you have children, note that there are occasional educational workshops—maybe inquire ahead. In short, it's one of those museums that leaves you wanting to know more, and perhaps that's exactly its strength.

If you think museums are just for looking, the State Tactile Museum Omero will change your mind. This place is a true revolution: it's the only state tactile museum in Italy, and one of the very few in the world specifically designed for tactile exploration. It's not only accessible to the visually impaired, but an experience that opens everyone's eyes. You're inside the Mole Vanvitelliana, that majestic pentagonal building in Ancona's port, and the atmosphere is already evocative. Inside, the rules are turned upside down: here you can touch everything. There are no 'do not touch' signs; on the contrary, you're encouraged to do so. The collection is full of surprises: there are scale reproductions of masterpieces like Michelangelo's David or the Venus de Milo, but also original works by contemporary artists designed to be perceived through touch. You run your fingers over a Greek statue, feel the marble's veins, the smoothness of bronze. It feels strange at first, almost like you're doing something wrong, but then it becomes natural. The experience is deeply engaging and changes how you relate to art. I noticed that many visitors, even sighted ones, close their eyes to focus solely on touch. The museum often organizes workshops for children and guided tours that explain how to 'read' shapes with your hands. One detail that struck me: the captions are in braille and large print, but the descriptions are so vivid that even without touching, you can imagine the artwork. I recommend dedicating at least an hour, without rushing. It's a place that invites slowness, sensory discovery. Perfect for families with curious children, but also for anyone wanting a different approach to culture. An experience that leaves a lasting impression, in the truest sense of the word.

If you think Ancona is just the port and the Cathedral, you're sorely mistaken. The Parco del Cardeto "Franco Scataglini" is one of those surprises that makes you reconsider a city. It's located right above the historic center, perched on Cardeto Hill, and offers a completely different perspective. This isn't your typical little park with benches and flowerbeds: here, you breathe in history. The name pays homage to the Anconetan dialect poet Franco Scataglini, and that alone tells you this isn't just any place. What strikes you immediately are the panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the port: from certain spots, you feel suspended between sky and water, with the ships looking like tiny toys down below. But the park also hides traces of the city's military past. There are the remains of Forte Altavilla, a 19th-century fortification that was part of Ancona's defensive system, and the walls of the nearby Forte Garibaldi. Walking along the unpaved paths and through the Mediterranean vegetation (pines, holm oaks, typical shrubs), you come across these ruins emerging from the greenery, creating a fascinating contrast. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing walk, away from the city center's hustle and bustle, but also for photography enthusiasts: at sunset, with the light reflecting on the sea, you can take postcard-perfect photos. Personally, I find it one of those places where you can stop to read a book or simply gaze at the horizon, without any rush. Be careful, though: some paths are a bit steep and not all are perfectly marked, so it's best to wear comfortable shoes. Don't expect kiosks or services: the attraction here is precisely its simplicity, the silence broken only by the wind and seagulls. If you visit Ancona, skipping Cardeto would be a shame: it's an authentic piece of the city, uniquely blending nature and memory.

If you're looking for a place that combines spirituality, history, and breathtaking scenery, Santa Maria di Portonovo is an unmissable stop. This 11th-century Romanesque abbey literally rises sheer above the sea, in a position that leaves you breathless. It's not just a monument, but a complete sensory experience. Upon arrival, you're greeted by the sound of waves crashing against the rocks below and the salty scent of the Adriatic. The white Conero stone building has a disarmingly simple beauty, with its clean lines and bare façade contrasting with the intense blue of the sky and sea. Inside, the atmosphere is one of almost palpable quiet. Light filters through the small single-light windows, creating plays of light and shadow on the thick walls. I was particularly struck by the semi-annular crypt, a rare architectural element that seems carved into the living rock. Walking around the abbey, you discover magical corners: the path leading to the pebble beach below, perfect for a refreshing dip after your visit, or the panoramic viewpoint from which you can admire the entire Portonovo bay. There's something primordial about this place, as if time had stood still here. It's not uncommon to encounter artists trying to capture the unique light of this stretch of coast. The abbey is still an active place of worship today, and sometimes you can attend services or sacred music concerts that resonate within these ancient walls. A personal tip: visit at sunset, when the sun tinges the building's stone with pink and orange. It's a spectacle that stays in your heart.

If you think Ancona is just sea and port, the Francesco Podesti Civic Art Gallery will make you think again. Finding it is easy: it's housed in the Palazzo Bosdari, a historic building that promises beauty from the outside. Upon entering, you're greeted by an intimate atmosphere, far from the tourist bustle. The collection is a journey through Marche art from the 14th to the 19th century, with some unexpected surprises. Francesco Podesti, the Ancona painter the gallery is named after, is obviously the star: his works, like the large detached fresco "The Coronation of the Virgin," captivate you with their color intensity and technical mastery. But it's not just him. There are canvases by Carlo Crivelli, that Venetian who left a strong mark on the Marche region, and by Lorenzo Lotto, with his unique way of telling sacred and profane stories. Personally, I lost myself observing the details in Crivelli's saints' clothing: they look real, you can see the folds of the fabric. Another section worth seeing is the one dedicated to 19th-century Marche landscapes: seeing how artists portrayed these hills and this sea, before photographs, is moving. The gallery isn't huge, and perhaps that's a good thing: you visit it calmly, without the rush of big museums. Some rooms might seem a bit dated in their setup, but in my opinion this adds charm, as if time had stood still here. Pay attention to opening hours: it usually opens in the morning and afternoon, but it's best to check because sometimes it closes for events. The ticket costs little, and if you have the Marche museums card you might get discounts. A tip? Dedicate at least an hour to it, perhaps when it's raining or too hot outside: it's a perfect refuge for art lovers, but also for those who want to discover a more intimate and cultured side of Ancona.

If you're looking for a place that tells the cultural soul of Ancona, the Teatro delle Muse is an unmissable stop. It's not just a theater, but a true symbol of the city's rebirth after the bombings of World War II. Rebuilt in 2002, it stands on the ashes of the old 19th-century theater, and this historical detail alone makes me think about how resilient the artistic heritage here is. The exterior is modern, with that travertine facade that stands out in the historic center, but it's upon entering that you understand the magic: the main hall, with its four tiers of boxes and a capacity of about 1000 seats, has an intimate atmosphere despite its size. I'm always struck by the acoustics, perfect for symphonic concerts and operas. The programming is varied: from the theater season with big national names to classical and contemporary music concerts, and even family events. A personal tip? Check the online calendar before going, because there are often matinees or evening shows worth the ticket. The main entrance is on Via della Loggia, right in the heart of the center, so it's easy to reach after a stroll through the alleys. If you pass by during the day, you might find the foyer open for a quick visit: it's worth taking a look at the interior spaces, even just to imagine the gala evenings. For me, it's one of those places that shows how Ancona can unite tradition and innovation without losing its character.

Piazza del Plebiscito, affectionately called Piazza del Papa by locals, is the beating heart of Ancona's historic center. It's not just a square, but a true open-air living room where history blends with everyday life. The first thing that strikes you is its irregular, almost trapezoidal shape, which creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere, different from grand monumental squares. At its center, the statue of Pope Clement XII dominates the space with a stern expression, almost as if keeping watch over passersby. Created in the 18th century, this bronze statue pays homage to the pontiff who commissioned the nearby port, and up close you can see the details of the drapery and the scepter, signs of an era when Ancona was an important maritime hub. On one side of the square stands the Church of San Domenico, with its red brick facade pleasantly contrasting with the white of the other buildings. Inside, it houses notable artworks, including an altarpiece by Titian, but personally, I find the real charm lies in its exterior, especially at sunset when the warm light caresses the bricks. The square is surrounded by historic buildings like Palazzo degli Anziani, which once housed the city government, and today displays its Gothic arches and windows that tell centuries of power and decisions. What makes Piazza del Plebiscito special, however, is its liveliness. By day, it's a bustle of students, tourists, and elderly people sitting on benches chatting; in the evening, it comes alive with locals crowding the bars and gelaterias around. I've noticed that many Anconetans use it as a meeting point, a place to have a coffee or simply watch people pass by. Sometimes I wonder if the square has lost some of its original solemnity, but perhaps it's precisely this blend of sacred and profane that makes it authentic. One detail that struck me: the shiny, time-worn cobblestones that reflect the lantern light in the evening, creating an almost theatrical atmosphere. If you visit Ancona, don't just take a quick photo: sit down, wait for the square to reveal itself in its normality, and you'll understand why for the inhabitants it's more than just an urban space.

If you stroll through Ancona's historic center, sooner or later you'll come across it: the Fontana del Calamo, which many also call the Fountain of Thirteen Spouts. It's not just a fountain, but a true city symbol, with a history rooted in the Renaissance. You see it there, in Piazza del Plebiscito, with its semicircular structure in Istrian stone that almost seems to embrace those who approach. What immediately catches your eye are the thirteen spouts shaped like masks, each one different from the others, from which fresh water flows. Some say they represent deities or mythological figures, but the truth is that no one knows for certain – and perhaps it's this very mystery that makes it fascinating. The original fountain dates back to the 1500s, but what you see today is a faithful reconstruction from the 1960s, after World War II bombings had nearly destroyed it. I like to think of it as Ancona's phoenix, reborn from its ashes. The water that flows out is drinkable, and it's not uncommon to see locals and tourists stopping to drink or refill their water bottles – a practical detail I always appreciate. The surrounding square is lively, with cafes and historic buildings, and the fountain becomes a natural meeting point. If you pass by in the evening, the lights illuminate it in a suggestive way, creating an almost magical atmosphere. A fun fact? The name 'Calamo' might come from the reed bed that was once here, or perhaps from an ancient Roman conduit. In any case, it's one of those places that tells the city's story without needing many words.

If you pass through Piazza della Repubblica, you can't miss it: the Merchants' Loggia is that elegant building with an Istrian stone facade that seems to tell stories of ships and trade. Built in the 15th century, it was the meeting point for merchants who animated the port of Ancona, one of the most important in the Adriatic. Today, walking under its arches, you can still breathe in that air of exchange and travel. The facade is a masterpiece by Giorgio Orsini da Sebenico, with allegorical sculptures representing the virtues of good commerce – Prudence, Fortitude, Justice, and Temperance. These are details best appreciated up close, especially when the afternoon light illuminates them. Inside, the environment is sober yet evocative, with cross vaults and an atmosphere that makes you imagine merchants bargaining here centuries ago. I sometimes wonder if someone lost a cargo of spices or precious fabrics in these halls – who knows. The Loggia has been restored several times, most recently after damage from World War II, and today it hosts cultural events and exhibitions. It's a living place, not just a monument to admire from the outside. If you visit Ancona, stop here: it's a piece of the city's history that explains why this city has always been a gateway to the sea. And if you get the chance, look toward the port from the Loggia: the view of the sea and ships is a beautiful contrast to the Renaissance elegance.

If you're looking for an authentic place to breathe in the soul of Ancona, the Herb Market is an unmissable stop. It's not just a covered market, but a genuine piece of the city's history that has enlivened the center since 1926. Upon entering, you're greeted by a lively and genuine atmosphere: the colorful fruit and vegetable stalls, the scent of freshly caught fish from the nearby port, the voices of vendors chatting in dialect. It's a place where Marche tradition can be touched firsthand, among crates of Ascoli olives, local cheeses like pecorino di fossa, and artisanal cured meats. I love getting lost among the aisles, watching grandmothers carefully selecting vegetables for lunch or fishmongers swiftly filleting sardines. There's also a corner dedicated to street food: try the sandwich with wild mosciolo from Portonovo, a unique specialty of this coast. The market is covered, so it operates year-round, but in my opinion, early morning is the best time, when the air is charged with energy and the products have just arrived. Don't expect a touristy, polished place: here you breathe in the everyday life of Ancona, with its somewhat subdued lighting and marble floors worn by time. If you pass by, stop to chat with the vendors: they often have interesting stories to tell, like that family that has managed the same stall for three generations. It's an experience that makes you feel part of the city, even if just for an hour.

Pincio Park is a peaceful corner in the heart of Ancona, a public garden offering unforgettable glimpses. It's not just a park: it's a natural belvedere that directly overlooks the port and the Adriatic Sea. Its position, perched on a hill, provides a panoramic view stretching from the piers to Monte Conero. Strolling along the tree-lined avenues, you'll come across well-kept flower beds, strategically placed benches, and a surprising sense of tranquility, considering the historic center is just a stone's throw away. Personally, I love sitting here at sunset, when the golden light illuminates the facades of the buildings and the boats at anchor. The park doesn't have any striking monumental attractions, and perhaps that's precisely its strength: it's a place to breathe, observe, and take a break. You'll notice it's frequented by locals of all ages: students studying in the shade, families with children running on the grass, couples seeking a bit of romance. There's also a playground for the little ones, simple but well-maintained. If you visit Ancona, don't just see it from below; climb up to the Pincio to capture the city from a different perspective. It's one of those places that helps you understand Ancona's deep connection with its sea. Sometimes I wonder if tourists overlook it, drawn to the churches and museums, but in my opinion, it's an authentic experience not to be missed.

The Ancona Lighthouse, also known as the Old Lighthouse, is one of those places that immediately makes you feel the breath of the sea. Built in 1859, it's one of the oldest and most iconic lighthouses on the Adriatic, located right at the entrance to the port on a rocky promontory. It's not just a landmark for ships but also a symbol of the city, with its red brick tower standing out against the sky. The location is strategic: from here, you can enjoy an incredible panoramic view of the port, the Gulf of Ancona, and the surrounding hills. I visited at sunset, and I must say the light reflecting on the water is something magical, almost surreal. The lighthouse isn't always open to the public inside, but even just approaching the base is worth it. There's a tranquil atmosphere, away from the chaos of the city center, with the sound of waves crashing against the rocks and the wind blowing strongly at times. It's a perfect spot for taking memorable photos, especially if you love seascapes. Sometimes I wonder what life must have been like for the lighthouse keepers a century ago, isolated but with this view in front of them every day. If you visit Ancona, don't skip it: it's a piece of living history, and it offers a moment of peace with a view you'll hardly forget. Be careful, though: the path to reach it can be a bit steep in some sections, so wear comfortable shoes. And if you're lucky, you might see a cruise ship entering or leaving the port—an added spectacle!

If you arrive in Ancona by sea, the Arco Clementino is one of the first things you see, and it doesn't go unnoticed. Built in 1738 based on a design by architect Luigi Vanvitelli, this triumphal arch made of Istrian stone marks the monumental entrance to the port, commissioned by Pope Clement XII to revive commercial traffic. It's not just a beautiful piece of 18th-century architecture: it's a symbol of the city looking out to sea, a landmark for those sailing and for those strolling along the quay. Its location is strategic, just steps from the Mole Vanvitelliana and the central Piazza del Plebiscito, so you often come across it even just while walking. Observing it up close, you notice the elegant details, such as the fluted columns and the papal coat of arms, which give it a solemn yet not heavy air. Personally, I like to see it at sunset, when the warm light enhances the color of the stone and creates a beautiful contrast with the blue of the sea. It's a place where you stop for a moment, perhaps taking a photo, but also reflecting on how Ancona has always been a border city, open to exchanges. Some say it's a bit neglected, and indeed it deserves more care, but it remains a piece of living history, telling centuries of arrivals and departures. If you visit the port, don't just glance at it in passing: approach it, read the plaque explaining its origins, and imagine the ships that once passed under its arches laden with goods and hopes.