History and truffles
Sant’Angelo in Vado is a small town in the province of Pesaro Urbino, whose streets and alleyways tell its interesting story.
The town stands on the ruins of the ancient Tiphernum Mataurense, which takes its name from the Latin word tipher, an aquatic plant that grows in swampy areas.
Sant’Angelo in Vado was the first Roman city and later the capital of the Massa Trabaria, owned by Federico da Montefeltro.
An archaeological site worth visiting in the town is the Domus del Mito, located near the Campo della Pieva. One of the most extraordinary discoveries from the end of the first century AD was found here and is considered to be one of the most significant archaeological findings in recent times. It is a large area of approximately 1,000m2 adorned with multi-coloured mosaics that depict classical mythology. The subjects depicted in these mosaics are exceptionally well-preserved and showcase cultured and refined skill. Among the themes illustrated, are Neptune and Amphitrite on a chariot drawn by sea horses, followed by Dionysus, the god of wine, and Medusa’s petrifying gaze. A hunting and fishing scene, surrounded by a festive repertoire of black and white geometric motifs, can be found in the triclinium. Additionally, the Cathedral of Sant’Angelo in Vado, named after San Michele Arcangelo, is also of great interest, along with Santa Chiara Church and Servi di Maria Monastery.
Sant’Angelo is one of the homelands of the Montefeltro truffle. A fine white truffles fair takes place every year between October and November. You can expect delicious flavours, entertainment, fun, and tradition. There’s also lots of fun to be had for children. It’s an event not to be missed!
Fun fact
The town is the birthplace of two famous painters: Taddeo and Federico Zuccari. In the late sixteenth century, the latter created the most awe-inspiring visual depiction of the Divine Comedy. 89 large black and red pencil drawings are presently held in the Gabinetto dei Disegni e Stampe at Florence’s Uffizi Gallery.