The Malatesta fortress
In the hills of the Valconca, inland from Riccione, Montefiore Conca is a small medieval village, one of the "Borghi più belli d'Italia", dominated by one of the most impressive castles in Romagna: the Rocca Malatestiana, a massive fortress built in the fourteenth century by the Malatesta lords of Rimini, with a square plan and a tall keep, visible from the coast and from all the surrounding valleys. The fortress was not only a military stronghold, but also a residence for the Malatesta and their illustrious guests: it hosted, among others, the Emperor Sigismund of Luxembourg and Pope Gregory XII.
Inside, the large halls preserve important remains of fourteenth century frescoes, attributed to the Bolognese painter Jacopo Avanzi, with battle scenes and figures of knights and heroes of antiquity, rare examples of secular medieval painting. From the top of the keep the view embraces the whole Valconca, the Adriatic coast, San Marino and the Montefeltro. The village, enclosed by walls, has narrow lanes, the Porta Curina, the main gate, and the church of San Paolo. Just outside the village stands the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Bonora, a pilgrimage destination since the fourteenth century. The village hosts medieval festivals, with costumes, music and banquets, and in autumn the chestnut festival. The surrounding countryside, between Montefiore, Gemmano and Mondaino, is dotted with other Malatesta castles and villages.
Tip: the fortress hosts exhibitions and events in summer; combine the visit with the caves of Onferno, in nearby Gemmano.
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