Ancona is the capital and main port of the Marche region, overlooking the Adriatic Sea and situated on an elbow-shaped promontory (hence the Greek name Ankon, 'elbow'). It is the only Italian city where one can see the sun rise and set over the sea. Ancona boasts a rich historical and artistic heritage, an important commercial and tourist port, and is the gateway to the marvelous Conero Regional Park.

What to See: Monuments and Panorama

• Saint Cyriacus Cathedral (Duomo di San Ciriaco) – Iconic Romanesque cathedral, located on Guasco Hill. It offers a spectacular panoramic view of the port and the sea.
• Arch of Trajan (Arco di Traiano) – Imposing Roman triumphal arch (115 AD), considered one of the most valuable Roman monuments in the Marche region.
• Mole Vanvitelliana (or Lazzaretto) – Majestic work of military and sanitary architecture with a pentagonal plan, located on the port and designed by Luigi Vanvitelli.
• Piazza del Plebiscito (or Piazza del Papa) – The city's drawing-room, with the Government Palace and the Statue of Clement XII.
• Cardeto Park (Parco del Cardeto) – Vast green area that includes the former Jewish Field, the old lighthouse, and offers unique panoramic points.

Beaches and Surroundings

• Passetto and Scalone del Passetto – Residential area with the Monument to the Unknown Soldier and the long staircase that descends to the sea (where the fishermen's 'caves' are located).
• Conero Beaches (Spiagge del Conero) – A few kilometers away are the iconic beaches of Monte Conero, such as Mezzavalle Beach (Spiaggia di Mezzavalle) and Due Sorelle Beach (Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle) (reachable by sea).
• Portonovo (nearby) – Splendid bay with crystal-clear sea, famous for the wild Mosciolo (mussel).

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Wild Moscioli of Portonovo DOP – Wild mussels fished in the Portonovo bay, a Slow Food Presidium, often cooked alla marinara or au gratin.
• Stoccafisso all'Anconetana (Ancona Style Stockfish) – Stockfish cooked with potatoes, tomato, black olives, and anchovies, the symbolic dish of Ancona cuisine.
• Rosso Conero DOCG Wine – Robust red wine based on Montepulciano grapes, produced on the slopes of Monte Conero.
• Brodetto all'Anconetana – Rich and flavorful fish soup, prepared with various types of local catch.

Verified Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Ancona
• Conero Park Tourist Website

Top 3 Recommended Accommodations

• Grand Hotel Palace – Elegant structure in a central location, near the port.
• SeePort Hotel – Modern hotel with design and view of the port.
• Ego Hotel (outside the center) – Offers a wellness experience and modern services.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• Ristorante La Moretta – Historic restaurant in the center, famous for Stoccafisso all'Anconetana.
• Ristorante Fortino Napoleonico (in Portonovo) – Spectacular location, specializing in Moscioli and fish.
• Trattoria del Porto – Authentic seafood cuisine, near the port.