Marche

Marche, a region nestled in central Italy, borders Abruzzo to the south, with which it shares several traditions, and Emilia-Romagna to the north. This hilly and largely mountainous region offers a stunning blend of golden sandy beaches along the Adriatic coast and rugged landscapes shaped by the Apennine Mountains to the west. With its varied climate, Marche is an all year round destination, yet it remains one of Italy’s lesser known gems outside of the country.

Marche is a region of small cities and towns, each with its own unique charm. Among them, Urbino stands out as the most picturesque. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Urbino is steeped in Renaissance culture, boasting an impressive collection of historical buildings and one of Italy’s most prestigious universities. For music lovers, the Ancona Jazz Festival is a must visit event. As the largest jazz festival in Italy, it attracts some of the world’s most renowned jazz musicians and offers a lively atmosphere for both locals and visitors.

The culinary traditions of Marche are as diverse as its landscapes, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect both coastal and inland influences. Along the coast, seafood reigns supreme, with Brodetto being one of the most iconic dishes. This hearty fish stew, prepared with a medley of over fourteen different types of fish, is a must try and can be found in restaurants along the Adriatic shoreline. Moving inland toward the mountains, the cuisine becomes more focused on meat, particularly pork, and features an abundance of truffle based dishes. The region is known for its prized black truffle, which enhances many traditional recipes, adding depth and aroma to dishes ranging from pasta to roasted meats.

Cheese and cured meats play an essential role in Marche’s cuisine. The region is famous for Formaggio di Fossa, a sharp, cave aged cheese with a distinctive flavor, and Casciotta d’Urbino, a soft and creamy cheese enjoyed since the Renaissance era. Cured meats such as Ciauscolo, a spreadable pork sausage, and Prosciutto di Carpegna, a delicate and flavorful ham, are staples of the local diet, often paired with rustic bread or crescia, a type of flatbread unique to the region.

Marche is also a significant wine producing region, particularly known for its white wines, though it also boasts some excellent reds. Verdicchio is the region’s most famous white wine, with Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi and Verdicchio di Matelica standing out as two of the finest expressions. These wines are crisp, mineral driven, and highly versatile, pairing beautifully with the region’s seafood dishes.

For red wine lovers, Marche offers wines such as Rosso Conero, made from Montepulciano grapes grown on the picturesque slopes of Mount Conero, and Rosso Piceno, a blend of Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes that delivers a robust yet smooth flavor. Another distinctive red is Lacrima di Morro d’Alba, an aromatic and intensely floral wine with notes of violets and berries, making it a unique choice for those looking to explore something different.

In addition to its native varieties, Marche also cultivates international grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, further enriching its diverse wine production. The region’s wineries, many of them family run, offer immersive experiences where visitors can taste exceptional wines while enjoying breathtaking countryside views.

Whether indulging in a plate of truffle infused pasta, savoring fresh seafood by the coast, or sipping a glass of Verdicchio in a historic hilltop village, Marche presents an unparalleled gastronomic journey. Its hidden beauty, deep rooted culinary traditions, and outstanding wines make it a destination that food and wine lovers should not overlook.