Cupramontana among wine, history and tranquil landscapes

Cupramontana among vineyards and high altitude

Cupramontana lies at an altitude of more than 500 metres in the Vallesina and offers spectacular views. The town and its surrounding area have always been associated with viticulture and wine production. A DOC recognition decree issued in 1968 designated Cupramontana and the neighbouring municipalities as the historic production area of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi; there, the wine may be labelled “classico”. When choosing a hotel, this connection between the landscape and regional food culture provides a clear focus for the trip.

The Sagra dell'Uva

The Sagra dell'Uva began on 23 September 1928 and is considered the oldest grape festival in the Marche and one of the oldest in Italy. It includes traditional dances such as the Saltarello, folk singing and the Palio della Pigiatura. In this competition, representatives of the municipalities in the Verdicchio DOC production area compete in grape treading. At traditional stalls, known as “capanne” and decorated with branches and ivy, typical local gastronomic products and the renowned Verdicchio di Cupramontana are offered. In this way, the festival brings together wine, culinary themes and regional culture in a tangible event.

Museums and historic sites

After the former Roman centre was abandoned, a new medieval settlement emerged in Cupramontana. The MIG – Museo In Grotta is located in the cellar rooms of the former Santa Caterina monastery and focuses primarily on the history and traditions of Verdicchio. The Museo Internazionale dell'Etichetta displays an original collection of wine labels for bottles from around the world. The Abbazia del Beato Angelo, formerly known as Santa Maria in Serra, is located exactly one kilometre from the centre of Cupramontana. The first traces of the Eremo dei Frati Bianchi, also known as the Eremo delle Grotte, date back to the 11th century; its caves served monks as places of penance and prayer.

Visiting and accessibility

When planning your visit, the differences in access are important: the Abbazia del Beato Angelo has several entrances, is accessible to people with disabilities and can be visited free of charge; opening hours should be confirmed with the institution. The Museo Internazionale dell'Etichetta is also accessible to people with disabilities, admission is free, and its opening hours should likewise be confirmed with the institution. The MIG is located on the roadside; access is limited because of the stairs to the upper floor. Information about admission fees and opening hours should also be obtained directly from the institution.

Tranquil landscape around the Eremo

The surroundings of the Eremo dei Frati Bianchi include an old path bordered by a stream, centuries-old trees, the stream's water and an exceptionally tranquil landscape.

Compare other destinations

For comparison with other destinations, you can also view Poggio San Marcello, San Paolo Di Jesi, San Biagio, Camerata Picena, Pianello Vallesina, Staffolo, Sassoferrato and Ancona.

For the higher-level travel overview: Ancona.