The San Ginesio Test
Located on a majestic ridge dominating the Valle del Fiastra, San Ginesio (680 m above sea level)is a medieval village among the most evocative in the Marche region, known as the “Balcony of the Sibillini” for its extraordinary panoramic view. Famous for its imposing castle walls and its deep historical bond with Argentina, it represents an architectural jewel set within the Monti Sibillini National Park.
Today, San Ginesio (MC) is part of the exclusive circuit of the “Borghi più belli d’Italia” (Most Beautiful Villages in Italy) and has been awarded the “Bandiera Arancione” (Orange Flag) by the Touring Club Italiano. Despite the wounds suffered during the 2016 earthquakes, the municipality is at the heart of an ambitious regeneration and reconstruction plan.
Historical, Artistic, and Architectural Highlights
- Castle Walls (14th-15th century): One of the best-preserved curtain walls in the region, complete with patrol walkways, towers, and monumental gates (Porta Picena, Porta Alvaneto).
- Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta (11th-15th century): The only example in the Marche region of a façade in Flamboyant Gothic style. The portal is a masterpiece of terracotta decoration with symbolic and floral figures.
- Monumental Complex of Saints Tommaso and Barnaba: Former seat of the Pilgrims’ Hospital (13th century), it features a porch with circular pillars that testifies to the village’s importance as a stop along the pilgrimage routes.
- Sant’Agostino Auditorium: An ancient Romanesque church transformed into a cultural centre, characterised by an imposing bell tower and spaces that combine medieval sacredness with modern artistic use.
- The Giacomo Leopardi Municipal Theatre in San Ginesio (MC) is a historic Italian-style theatreinaugurated in 1877 within the Town Hall. It is currently undergoing restoration and seismic improvement following the 2016 earthquake.
A sample of the campaign:
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