From Ancient Origins to the Heart of the Medieval Marche.

The roots of Montefiore dell’Aso reach deep into ancient times: the area was already inhabited during the Iron Age, as evidenced by artifacts from the Picene civilization, while in the Roman period rural villas and necropolises were established. In the early centuries of Christianity, the village became the seat of a pieve (parish church) dedicated to Saint Lucia, the spiritual heart of a vast territory.

In the Middle Ages, the union of the castles of Montefiore and Aspromonte gave rise to a free municipality, which for centuries played a strategic role between the sea and the hills. Legends and chronicles tell of fierce battles and defensive towers — signs of a proud and combative community.

From the fifteenth century onward, the village came under the rule of the Papal States, which strengthened its walls and consolidated its urban structure. In the following centuries, life was marked by the presence of nobles and landowners, guardians of a past that left precious traces in the architectural and cultural fabric of the town.

Montefiore dell’Aso thus preserves a long and fascinating history, intertwined with the broader story of the Marche region, revealed today in every corner of its medieval village.

TRADITIONS, CULTURE AND FLAVORS
E SAPORI

Montefiore dell’Aso preserves a rich heritage of traditions and events that mark the passing of the year and express the village’s deepest soul. From the colorful Montefiorano Carnival, with its allegorical floats and masks enlivening the historic center, to the evocative Corpus Domini Flower Festival (Infiorata), and the cheerful “Maialata”, a feast that fills the old town with every kind of pork delicacy — each moment of the year offers an opportunity to celebrate tradition and community spirit.

Summer comes alive with the historic Fruit Festival, an evolution of the traditional Peach Festival, showcasing the agricultural excellence of the Valdaso valley and inviting visitors to enjoy local dishes and fruit-based recipes. In autumn, the Great Autumn Fair and the Chestnut Festival warm the village with authentic flavors and a convivial atmosphere. Unique events also include the Notti di Pelagallo — nights dedicated to astronomical observation under Montefiore’s summer sky — blending science, wonder, and poetry.

Alongside these traditions, Montefiore dell’Aso also treasures a cuisine steeped in history: from vincisgrassi (a rich baked pasta typical of the Marche) to humble dishes such as tajuli and taccu, and the distinctive salame all’erba luigia, a local specialty with an unmistakable flavor. All accompanied by wines from the Piceno hills — Rosso Piceno, Falerio, and Pecorino — that embody the same authenticity as the surrounding landscape.

Such is Montefiore dell’Aso: a village that celebrates its identity through festivals, culture, and flavors, offering visitors an experience that unites emotion, tradition, and the joy of sharing.