Apecchio

Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club

Apecchio, historically a place where numerous civilizations have met (traces of Umbrian, Etruscan, Roman, and Celtic settlements can still be found), is located at the foot of Mount Nerone, straddling the Marche and Umbria regions, near the confluence of the Biscubio and Menatoio rivers, in a picturesque setting rich in trails and waterways.

The suggested itinerary is perfect for exploring the historic center: it begins at the medieval bridge from the 1400s, leading to the arch of the 1300s bell tower. Nearby is the interesting Palazzo Ubaldini, designed by Francesco di Giorgio Martini. Inside, you'll find the G. Perugini Theater, the smallest theater in the Marche region, and the Museum of Fossils and Minerals of Mount Nerone, which boasts a collection of over two thousand beautiful and scientifically significant pieces. It’s also worth visiting the churches, particularly the Church of Santa Lucia with its Templar origins and Giottesque-style frescoes, the Church of Madonna della Vita, the Church of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria dating back to the 10th century, and the Pieve of San Martino. Another interesting stop is the Jewish quarter with its synagogue, the oven for baking unleavened bread, the sukkot courtyard, and the so-called “giro d’aria” (from the 15th century). The natural surroundings offer many trekking trails of various difficulties, as well as a wide range of paths and roads (both dirt and paved) to explore by bike around the town (Apecchio is also a stop on the Ciclo Appenninica Alte Marche).

The favorable climatic and environmental conditions make the land of Apecchio particularly suitable for truffle production, of all types and in every season. The purest water flowing from Mount Nerone and the climate that promotes the cultivation of quality barley have stimulated the development of three high-quality craft breweries that combine these elements and turn them into a true excellence. This is why Apecchio holds the title of the first "City of Italian Beer." It is also recognized as the capital of "Alogastronomy," a term coined to indicate the virtuous connections between craft beer, quality products, and the territory. A typical product to taste is bostrengo, a dessert still prepared with a recipe that has remained unchanged over the centuries.

Apecchio Truffle & Beer (on the first weekend of October) is the most anticipated event of the year, a truffle market exhibition and Alogastronomy festival. For three days, the local taverns offer tasty local food made with truffles and beer, while a rich program fills the streets and squares of the village with concerts, events, and conferences. Other interesting events are the Sagra del Bostrengo (during mid-August) and Passio, a religious event in costume that has been held for over thirty years on Good Friday, where the entire community of the Serravalle di Carda district participates, from the elderly to the youngest.