Tradition and Nature
Mercatello sul Metauro is a Medieval village whose name means “small market”. In fact, in the olden days, the village held a market twice a week, attracting locals from the nearby countryside.
Originally established as a market town, it has since been embellished with churches and buildings of significant historical value, boasting remarkable artworks and architecture. Notable examples of these points of interest, which blend in perfectly with their surroundings, include the Collegiate Church of Saints Peter and Paul, the Church and Museum of San Francesco, the humble Church of San Sebastiano, and the birthplace of Saint Veronica (Orsola Giuliani). The whole village stands in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature, which remains totally unspoilt. Even amid the valleys and hills, the multitude of farmhouses blend seamlessly into the surroundings, offering stunning views and glimpses of breath-taking landscapes.
Within these regions, the cuisine boasts an array of delectable delights for the palate, including the area’s signature pasta, tacconi, which closely resembles tagliatelle. This handmade egg pasta is made with a wheat and fava bean dough. The truffle is also a speciality in this area that is not to be missed!
Fun fact
The fun and charming Palio del Somaro is usually held in July. The town’s four neighbourhoods engage in competitions that test their skills, speed, and more. Alongside the notoriously challenging donkey race, there are events such as the men’s and women’s dough race, trunk-cutting, and a competition to see who can climb a greasy pole the fastest!
In short, it’s a celebration that has a bit of anything, including excellent food and wine, and a dip in the river (only once the fishing competition has finished, otherwise the fishermen might get angry!).