fermo italy tourist information

Visit Fermo

The city of fermo is a timeless jewel, framed by extraordinary landscapes . here is what you need to know before a visit.  , what to see in fermo: a thousand-year-old city in the marche region.

With that je ne sais quoi typical of such ancient, noble, and proud cities, Fermo is a delight for travelers. Whether for a few hours or a few days, this alluring city in the Marche region doesn't disappoint its visitors. 

Culture and beauty have always been banners of its rich and fascinating history. Dense with artistic and natural points of interest, it exerts a magnetic attraction that contaminates the entire province. 

Here is what you need to know about Fermo. 

Fermo, a timelessly elegant and noble city

Fermo seems almost like an old-fashioned lady. The city boasts a charm earned throughout the centuries with grace and vivacity. There is no escape: to meet her is to feel irresistibly attracted. You just have to play her game of seduction and let yourself be enveloped in a warm and exuberant atmosphere. 

The Renaissance urban layout is a constellation of aristocratic palaces, churches, courtyards and squares, where contemporary-style clubs, restaurants and bars pops up at every corner. 

Its Piazza del Popolo is probably one of the most beautiful squares in the region. Nevertheless, Fermo has plenty of arrows in its bow. Starting with a stately location on Colle Sabulo, a hill that dominates the wide and varied landscape of the region. You’ll see it in the distance, towering with its Duomo in the typical sweet and rounded silhouette of the most classic Italian scenarios. 

Fermo's prosperous geography spans from the sea, with the beaches of the Adriatic just eight kilometres away, to the dramatic hinterland. 

The surroundings are an exciting discovery. In the province of Fermo, you'll find many picture-postcard villages and towns dotting the hills up to the slopes of the Sibillini mountains. 

Such a vast territory cannot but be perfect for varied outdoor activities , with trails suitable for trekking, mountain biking or horse riding. 

The sea , which on this stretch of coast is ideal for sailing, windsurfing or kiting, is a few minutes' drive from the hilltop centre. Locations such as Lido di Fermo , Casabianca and Marina Palmense are excellent for enjoying moments of relaxation. 

Where is Fermo

The city of Fermo , in Le Marche, is perched 320 metres high on the Sabulo hill. Easily reachable by car or bus and with the nearest airport in Ancona, it's in an excellent position to experience all the beauty the region offers. 

The coast is only a few kilometres from the centre. At the same time, the surrounding territory is a continuous succession of nature trails and attractive cultural spots.

This peculiarity of a place immersed in diversity makes the city of Fermo an ideal destination for anyone—it's easy to experience the holiday you have in mind, whatever it may be.  

The 8,200 kilometres of golden sand and white pebbles on the coastline touch Blue Flag resorts with beaches suitable for those travelling with children and four-legged friends. 

Sandwiched between the countryside and the Adriatic, Fermo shares a constant succession of natural and civil landmarks, ancient villages, archaeological parks, abbeys and castles. Evidence of a thousand-year history .

Fermo, a city with a thousand years of history

The city of Fermo has ancient origins . The first settlements around the Sabulo hill date back to the 9th century BC. 

Wandering around, you can easily guess some of the past events that affected the area. For example, the Roman Cisterns, the remains of the old theatre, and the Castellum Firmanorum tell of the time when Fermo was a Roman colony.

Likewise, in an ideal walk through the history of this city, you bump into the court of Amalasuintha , mother of Ostrogothic king Athalaric . You become acquainted with the ancient administration of duces and iudices desired by the emperor Justinian . One learns that the Episcopate initiated a massive evangelisation of the countryside in the 5th century; witnesses the passage of the Lombards ; and learns that in the 10th century the foundations were laid in Fermo for the current Marche Region. 

A university town since the 16th century, the seed of culture was actually planted in Fermo much earlier. At least in 825, when King Lothair founded a prestigious studium that was the first university of the Duchy of Spoleto.

A free municipality since 1199, it was ruled by Venetian consuls and podestà, popes and lords of the most powerful families of Medieval and Renaissance Italy. Each left marks still visible today through streets, churches and palazzi. If you know how to read it, Fermo will reveal its past steeped in an intense and alive history . 

After a long period of political unity with its long-time rival, Ascoli Piceno, Fermo became a province again in 2004.

Discover the magic of Fermo

We take you through the streets of this fascinating city full of history . Come and discover Fermo's most evocative places , its timeless traditions and its magical atmosphere. 

Discover the province of Fermo: what to do and see among villages, woods and beaches

Montefortino

The province of Fermo is a puzzle of ever-changing landscapes and atmospheres. The city's surroundings are a tandem of hills , vineyards , woods and charming villages . 

Some of the most popular seaside resorts in the Marche region are just a few kilometres from Fermo , with places like Lido di Fermo, Casabianca, Marina Palmense, Porto San Giorgio or Porto Sant'Elpidio.

On the main road leading to the coast, Villa Vitali, with its gardens and the open-air arena , enlivens the Fermo summer with an exciting theatre and music festival in an enchanting setting. 

The walk to the gorge called ' dell'Infernaccio ' is the prelude to a series of routes and natural attractions much appreciated by the locals, such as the source of the Tenna River , the Hermitage of San Leonardo and an enchanting hidden waterfall .

Also, enclosed in the province of Fermo are towns and villages to visit with exquisite slowness. Many of them are included in the prestigious circuit of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia .

Torre di Palme is a lovely medieval centre overlooking the Adriatic Sea, seated on the top of a hill surrounded by greenery. Nearby, il Bosco del Cugnolo , a Protected Floristic Area , offers the opportunity for walks in the shade of Mediterranean vegetation. If steep slopes do not frighten you, you can climb up to la Grotta degli Amanti with the help of a rope. According to legend, the grotto was the last refuge of a couple of unfortunate lovers.

Servigliano boasts an extraordinary history that distinguishes it from all other nearby villages. It was built in the 18th century as an 'ideal town' according to Enlightenment architectural standards.

Moresco, a small and delightful honey-coloured village of just one hundred souls, hosts the annual ciauscolo festival, a celebration of the typical Marchigiano salami.

Remaining on the theme of culinary fairs , Diamanti a Tavola, a highly prized event dedicated to the white truffle of the Sibillini Mountains, takes place in Amandola, Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club. 

The hawks that nest on the high cliff where Montefalcone Appennino towers over the countryside gave the name to this dizzyingly beautiful borgo with a scenic fortress.

These are just a few suggestions for a trip in such a magnetic region. But visiting Fermo means much more. It's an experience that fills your heart with beauty. Because beauty, here, is everywhere. 

The historic centre of Fermo

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Step by step, the deeper you go into the heart of Fermo's historic centre , the more it will become clear how much this city owes its appearance to an ancient —Roman, Medieval and Renaissance— urban heritage . Streets that turn into narrow, winding alleys skirt a built-up area of houses and palaces so tall to remind a metropolis of the past.

Being in a raised position , it's not surprising to see panoramic terraces that open up amidst the warm ochre of the façades. For instance, a route that touches the Matteucci tower, the Abbey of San Marco alle Paludi, the Girfalco park and the Cathedral offers enchanting views.

The arrival in the city is immediately impressive, with a coup de théâtre guaranteed by Piazza del Popolo, one of the first attractions you'll encounter. 135 metres long and 34 metres wide, it's a harmonious and rigorous backdrop framing some of Fermo's most storied buildings . Formerly known as Piazza San Martino and Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, what has remained unchanged is its vocations as the beating heart of Fermo's social life. 

Piazza del Popolo was designed in the 15th century, but the current appearance is due to 1659 renovation works. Two long, scenic terracotta porticoes line its sides together with a series of buildings of great artistic and historical value .

Palazzo dei Priori, today the seat of the Fermo Civic Art Gallery; the 16th-century Palazzo Apostolico; Palazzo degli Studi, featuring the Romolo Spezioli library inside; la Loggia di San Rocco; and the church of San Martino.

From Piazza del Popolo, continue towards the highest part of Fermo , Piazzale del Girfalco. In between, streets and lanes are a pleasure to walk along. Not only the main boulevards—Via Mazzini, Corso Cefalonia and Via dell'Università—but also multiple small lanes to wander in search of a hidden treasure: a traditional bottega, a bistro with typical specialities, or an artistic portal.  

Conquer the top of Sabulo Hill to reach the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Tall and majestic in the austerity of its Romanesque-Gothic facade, it's right in the middle of the Girfalco park. You'll have the whole city at your feet, with Mount Conero , Mount Ascension and the Adriatic coast lined up to the horizon.

The Globe Room in Fermo

The Globe Room (Sala del Mappamondo) is the most famous room in the Palazzo dei Priori, in Piazza del Popolo. This historic building welcomes visitors with a scenic double staircase, to be walked under the watchful eye of Pope Sixtus V.

Although the current façade and the statue of the pontiff (a former bishop of Fermo) date back to the 16th century , the building is much older. It's the result of the union between the 14th-century Palazzo of Rinaldo di Giorgio and the church of San Martino.

A series of grand reception rooms occupy the first floor of the building. Among them, the Portraits Room that used to be Fermo's theatre. 

Since 1981, the Civic Art Gallery (Pinacoteca Civica) has also been located here, with an array of paintings, costumes, porcelain and furnishings of great value. However, among all the valuable works preserved, one painting stands out: The Adoration of the Shepherds by Rubens . 

The real gem of this museum is beyond a door on the second floor. Above the entrance, a medallion shows the name 'Cristina', a tribute to Christina of Sweden . The queen was a good friend to Decio Azzolino, the Fermo cardinal who commissioned the room.

The large wooden hall—a rich library with 3,000 manuscripts, 127 codices, 300,000 volumes, more than 800 historical journals, 5,000 drawings and 6,500 engravings, coins, seals and various relics—once hosted shows and dances and was not spared by several fires that made entertaining activities cease. The books are arranged in order of size: from the bulkiest, occupying the bottom shelves, to the smallest, higher up. 

The highlight is right in the middle: an impressive globe measuring 5.68 metres in circumference and 1.85 metres in diameter. It dates back to the 18th century and was designed by Silvestro Amanzio Moroncelli, Queen Christina's cosmographer . 

The imposing globe gives name to the room, Sala del Mappamondo (the globe room). The sphere is entirely covered with Fabriano royal paper and supported by a wooden structure made by Filippo Morroni di Fermo. It's impossible to remain indifferent. 

Theatre of Fermo

This theatre, the largest opera house in the region , is a symbol of Fermo , just like the eagle depicted on the city's coat of arms and from which it takes the name. Teatro dell'Aquila dates back to the late 18th century when it replaced la Sala Grande. Until then, this wooden room in Palazzo dei Priori was the site designated for shows and concerts. 

There is no monumental façade. Still, beyond the sober entrance, it conceals an exquisitely elegant hall with a splendid tempera-painted ceiling and a majestic fifty-six-arm wrought-iron chandelier made in Paris.

Located in Via Mazzini, it used to be a true landmark for the people of Fermo, a place for meeting, culture and entertainment. 

Fermo's Theatre has picked up the baton of a rich and varied musical and theatrical heritage, with a wide calendar of events , including music and prose performances and an exciting opera and symphonic concert season.

Roman Cisterns

Fermo's Roman cisterns are among the world's oldest and most imposing structures of their kind, a unique water system of impressive dimension (2,200 square metres) from the Augustan period.

This complex and ingenious underground hydraulic system is made up of three reservoirs . The first, on the Girfalco, is entirely underground and therefore cannot be visited. The second, in Largo Temistocle Calzecchi Onesti, is known as Piccole Cisterne (little cisterns), a smaller environment compared to le Grandi Cisterne in Via degli Aceti.

This charming paved street hides the ancient medieval access to the third archaeological site , featuring thirty perfectly preserved communicating rooms arranged along three parallel rows. 

In addition to the magnificence of the high vaulted rooms, what is even more astonishing is that some were in use until a few decades ago. 

Used by the population during the Second World War as a shelter during bombardments, the Roman cisterns are undoubtedly one of the places you shouldn't miss in Fermo.

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The quaint town of Fermo, Italy in the central Italian region of le  Marche , is known for its fantastic location, immersed in the area’s outstanding landscape. It is also known for the remains of its defensive walls, still visible within its boundaries. Fermo sits atop the Sabulo hill, 319 meters above sea level, a position allowing visitors to enjoy dazzling views of the lands below.

Founded in 264 BC as a Roman colony known as Firmum Picenum,  it eventually became one of the Empire’s administrative headquarters in the area and was governed by four quaestores.   Fermo is not a large town, but its historical relevance and the beauty of the countryside surrounding it make it a great place to visit.

Sightseeing in Fermo, Italy

The town’s most important monument is its  Duomo,  which was almost entirely reconstructed in 1227 by Giorgio da Como. Its façade is a very fine example of gothic architecture with the campanile and side portal reflecting the same style. Over the main door is a rose window dating back to 1348 and there are also several tombs on the porch, including one by Tura from 1366. Inside, visitors can find a monument to Giuseppe Colucci, a famous local writer.  The interior has been changed over time and is actually quite modern in nature. The Duomo of Fermo, Italy is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Fermo has had a lengthy history, and the presence of several archaeological sites bears witness to it. There are still traces of a Roman amphitheater and of the town’s ancient walls that were built centuries ago – made of rectangular blocks of hard limestone – just outside Porta San Francesco. You can also see the remarkable remains of battlement walls erected in medieval times. 

San Francesco Church is known for its beautiful tower and brickwork choir, both of which date back to 1240. The rest of the church was modified and restored around the 17 th century. For more history, visit the Palazzo Comunale , an ancient palace that now holds the Biblioteca Comunale , which is quite well known because of its large collection of antique volumes and inscriptions. Built in 1446 the palazzo is home to a large statue of Pope Sixtus V, erected during restoration works that took place centuries back.

Getting to Fermo

Fermo is well connected to most major towns and cities in the region by an extensive bus network. Buses operating in the region run several times a day and connect Fermo to its neighbors on a regular basis. These buses are not as comfortable as trains, but they are widely used since train stations are not located in all the smaller towns and villages of the area. Tickets are not very expensive and the service is quite punctual.  Driving down is another relatively easy and certainly pleasant option, once again thanks to the striking panoramas you would enjoy through your car’s windows. 

Moving Around in Fermo, Italy

Fermo, Italy is easily navigated on foot. All locations of historical and cultural interest are situated in the center and all in close proximity to one another, so walking is the fastest and easiest way to get around. Fermo may be small, but it is certainly full of charms and artistic delights, so you are bound to enjoy walking around its lovely, medieval streets. If you like cycling, you may even rent a bike and get to know Fermo this way. While staying, you should leave the car parked outside the hotel, but it will certainly come in handy to visit and enjoy Fermo’s surrounding areas.

In case you really want to stick with the locals, you can choose public transport: tickets are widely available at any newsagents in town.

Stay and Accommodation

Fermo has quite a good selection of hotels and b+b to choose from, perfect if you wish to stay in town and enjoy a bit of buzz. If you are after some more relaxation, you could go for one of the many country homes and villas in the surrounding countryside, which can be rented. Among the best places to stay in Fermo, we find the  Hotel Astoria , Casale Moretti , Hotel Casina delle Rose , New Regina Mundi, and  Bed and Breakfast A Palazzo.

In Fermo, Italy visitors will generally find small restaurants and pizzerias that serve traditional dishes. There are also many charming trattorias and osterias run by local families that serve homestyle Italian cooking, very popular among the locals. Some of the best restaurants in town are Osteria II Galeone , Ristorante Rio Ete  and Locanda Del Palio. 

Shopping in Fermo, Italy

There are plenty of small shops in Fermo, Italy selling handcrafted items made by local artisans. In the old part of town, there are also a few good places where tourists can find authentic antique pieces and knick-knacks that can be purchased as souvenirs. Many food stores in town sell good quality olive oil, sausages, and a variety of cheeses.

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Fermo - Marche Tourism

Fermo is situated on the slopes of Sabulo Hill (319 above sea level). The city is now divided into two parts: the old town, that has remained almost intact through the centuries, and the new area.

SEASIDE HOLIDAY OFFER:  Fermo features the seaside resorts of Marina Palmense (3 km of beach to the south of Porto San Giorgio)  and Lido di Fermo, Casabianca and Lido San Tommaso (4 km of beach to the north). The beaches at Lido di Fermo and Marina Palmense are both pebbled and sandy; the area is full of camping sites, tourist villages and apartments and equipped with many facilities, like bars, restaurants and nightclubs. The resorts are surrounded by green and lush hills, protecting the coast from the winds. There's a bike path running from Casabianca to the village of San Tommaso.

ATTRACTIONS: The heart of the town is the magnificent Renaissance Piazza del Popolo, formerly Piazza Grande, where there is the sixteenth century Palazzo dei Priori, whose main entrance is topped by  Sansovino's grand statue of the Bishop of Fermo who was to become Pope Sixtus V. Now it is home to the Municipal Art Gallery, boasting valuable paintings of the Venetian and Marche schools and the "Nativity" by Rubens, and the Sala del Mappamondo (Hall of the Globe), taking its name from the world map drawn by the cartographer Moroncelli of Fabriano in 1713; the building also houses the archaeological section "From the Villanovians to Piceni"; further remarkable palaces surrounding the square are: the Palazzo degli Studi, housing the town library "Spezioli" with 400.000 volumes, and the Apostolic Palace, built in 1532 as the residence of the Governors and of the papal legates. Fermo's pride is also the prestigious "Teatro dell'Aquila", a fine example of eighteenth century architecture.  Also worthy of note are the underground piscine romane (roman pools) which comprise thirty magnificently preserved underground chambers built between 41 & 60 BC to conserve and purify the town's water supply, and regarded as the finest example of their kind in Italy. Climbing up Girfalco hill, you reach the 13th century Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral, with its richly decorated interior and fine rose window. You cant' miss: the Church of San Francesco, which houses fragments of frescoes by Giuliano da Rimini; the church of San Domenico, rebuilt in 1233 on the area where once stood the church of St. Thomas of Canterbury; the Church of St. Agostino, decorated with nice frescoes by Giotto's school. The most famous local products are: caciotta, a top quality cheese made from both ewe and cow's milk; ciauscolo ( soft cured pork) and vin cotto (sweet "cooked" wine). The frustingo is the typical Christmas cake. It is made with dried figs, raisins, almonds, walnuts, cooked wine, flavored with cocoa, coffee, rum, grated orange and lemon peel, candied fruit and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The most imnportant event taking place in Fermo is the feast of the Assumption, celebrated on August 15. During the summer period the Piazza del Popolo plays host to Fermo's music festival featuring some of the world's finest performers, as well as outdoor markets.

• Discover The Marche Region
• Not to be missed In the Marche Region
• Plan Your journey

Discover the Marche Region

Not to be missed in the Marche Region

Plan your journey

Select the language

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 3.1 By foot
• 3.2 By bike

Fermo is a pleasant and picturesque town in Italy , located in the Marche region along the Adriatic coastline.

Understand [ edit ]

The town of Fermo rests atop the summit of a hill, overlooking the Tenna River and providing a breathtaking view of the countryside. The antiquity of the town is perhaps its most striking feature; remains of cyclopean walls, ancient architectural sites, and an intricate system of thirty well-preserved Roman cisterns all contribute to the historical richness of Fermo.

Its rich ancient heritage, beautiful architecture and landscape, and exciting social lifestyle make Fermo a very attractive tourist destination, especially for those tourists who prefer to travel “off the beaten path.”

Get in [ edit ]

For domestic travelers or for those who live within driving distance, it is easiest and most cost effective to reach Fermo by car. International travelers have a variety of options while traveling to Fermo. Many travelers to Fermo will find that they require multiple mode of transportation to reach their destination. Most commonly, air travel is used in combination with travel by car (rental), bus, or railway.

By plane [ edit ]

Although Fermo does not have its own airport, there are two airports in Italy that are reasonably close by. The more accessible of the two for international travelers is located Rome; it is the Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, or in Italian, Aeroporto Leonardo da Vinci di Fiumicino. The other airport, located in Ancona, is much closer to Fermo but it is very small and not a direct option for those traveling from outside of Europe. It is possible, however, to arrive at the Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Rome, and then board a connecting flight to Ancona Airport].

Regardless of which airport one arrives at, additional travel is necessary to reach Fermo. The most popular options are rental car and train.

By car [ edit ]

This is an attractive option for those who do not wish to adhere to a strict time schedule, as is sometimes necessary with travel by train or bus. A rental car, while expensive, is often the quickest way to arrive in Fermo. A rental car can be acquired from a number of companies that operate through either airport, with prices starting at around $45 or €50 per day. From Rome, Fermo is approximately a 2.5 hour drive. Driving from Ancona takes around one hour. It is important to note that tolls do exist en route to Fermo from both locations, which must be paid using cash.

By train [ edit ]

It is possible to travel by rail from Rome to Fermo, but a change in train is necessary. Most commonly, rail travelers will take the train from Rome to Ancona, and then from Ancona to Porto San Giorgio, which is a short bus ride away from Fermo. The journey by train from Rome to Fermo can be much more time consuming than other options, with an average duration of approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours. However, train travel is very affordable compared to renting a car for the duration of your stay.

Get around [ edit ]

Tourists have a variety of options for getting around in Fermo.

By foot [ edit ]

For short distances, walking is the best way to get from place to place in Fermo. Tourists will find that the town of Fermo is a very walk-able destination. Walking around also allows tourists in Fermo to really get to experience the beautiful town and its friendly, hospitable inhabitants. Since the walled town is on a steep hill, three public lifts are available (for free) to help reach the top of the town. If a distance is too lengthy to walk, consider biking, using the town bus service, or renting a car.

By bike [ edit ]

For short to medium distances, biking is a great way to get around in Fermo. It is also a popular mode of transport used by the locals. If it is not possible to bring a bike with you to Fermo, there are several bike rental services available in the town. Oftentimes hotels in the area will provide this service for their guests. Most of these services allow for hourly or daily use, and they are fairy inexpensive.

By bus [ edit ]

Bus services are available for going lengthier distances in Fermo. Bus travel in Fermo is fairly sraightforward, inexpensive and quick. Buses are also a great way to get to and from towns close by to Fermo. Tousists should definitely take advantage bus services when they wish to explore the surrounding areas. It is important to note that most buses do not run on Sundays in the area.

Several car rental companies are located within the town of Fermo. These companies are fairly small and only have a limited number of cars available to rent on a daily basis, so if possible try to book your rental well in advance. Some hotels in the area offer a car rental service for their guests. One should also note that driving in Italy is often difficult, espcially for foreigners, due to unfamiliar traffic patterns and notoriously speedy Italian drivers.

See [ edit ]

There are many interesting things to see in the town of Fermo. First and foremost, a tourist in Fermo should simply take in all of the beautiful scenery that the town has to offer. From countryside to coastline, Fermo’s breathtaking landscape is sure to captivate any tourist. There are also several historical sites that are worthwhile to visit. Below are a few of the most popular places for tourists to visit.

• Duomo di Fermo – This magnificent 13th century cathedral, which rises in the most elevated part of the town, is a fine example of asymmetrical Romanesque-Gothic architecture. It boasts a richly decorated interior and a beautiful rose window over the main entrance. One can enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside from well-maintained gardens that surround the cathedral.
• Piazza del Popolo – This large main square is the heart of Fermo. It is surrounded by colonnaded municipality buildings and 16th century palazzi, including the Palazzo Communale which houses the towns art collection. Atop of the Palazzo Communale sits a noteworthy statue of Pope_Sixtus_V Pope Sixtus V. The Piazza Popolo is the social center of the town and it is host to the town’s many annual festivals.
• Lido di Fermo or “beach of Fermo”– This beautiful stretch of Adriatic coastline is a definite must see while in Fermo. With its warm waves and wide, sandy beaches it is the perfect relaxation spot. Lido di Fermo can be reached by a 15-minute bus ride from the town center. There are also other beaches close by to Fermo that are worthwhile to visit. The beach of Porto San Giorgio, for example, is particularly nice to visit. This beach has earned a prestigious blue-flag beach designation, which means that it meets high standards of aesthetic beauty and cleanliness.
• 43.161819 13.718501 1 Musei di Fermo ( Museums of Fermo ), Piazza del Popolo , ☏ +39 0734 217140 , [email protected] . Daily 10:30–13:00, 14:00–19:00 . The 13th century Palazzo dei Priori is the oldest palace in the city. With surrounding buildings it now houses a museum complex. The Archaeological Museum, with pre-Roman Picene artifacts of the 9th–3rd century BCE. The Civic Art Gallery features late-Gothic paintings. The Civic Library covers more than three centuries of history. It includes the Globe Room, which showcases a beautiful 1713 globe by Moroncelli. As of August 2020, as a COVID-19 precaution, reservations required. A Tourist Information Office is also in this complex. ( updated Sep 2020 )
• 43.161691 13.713697 2 Palazzo Paccaroni Scientific Museums , Corso Cavour, 64 , ☏ 0734 . Temporarily closed . This complex includes the "Silvio Zavatti" Polar Museum, founded in 1969, with Inuit artifacts and records of arctic explorations by Silvio Zavatti and others. The "Tommaso Salvadori" Natural Science Museum has ornithology collections, including stuffed birds, from Le Marche and Sardinia. A large meteorite which landed in 1996 is here. There are exhibits of old cameras, and of pipes (for smoking). As of September 2020, the museums are said to be temporarily closed, perhaps due to COVID-19 restrictions. ( updated Sep 2020 )

Do [ edit ]

There are an endless number of activities to keep tourists occupied in Fermo.

• Visit the beaches – Do take the time to experience Fermo’s beaches. Lido di Fermo is a great place for tourists who like to relax, sunbathe, or play sports.
• Interact with locals – Do go out of your way to get to know the locals. The people of Fermo are known for their friendly and welcoming demeanor. Almost all people in the area speak Italian in their everyday interactions, but many do know how to speak English as well, especially younger people. Even if you do not speak Italian, making an effort to communicate with those who live in Fermo will prove to be a worthwhile experience.
• Visit the market – Do visit the open air market that takes place every Saturday. It is located in the main square of town, the Piazza del Popolo. Very fresh local produce and high quality food products are available for purchase at the market. It is also a great place for socialization.
• Attend festivals – Do attend any of the annual festivals that Fermo hosts that take place during your stay. They honor a variety of aspects of Fermo’s unique culture, from regional food and wine to music. These enjoyable events take place in the main Piazza of the town. They are perhaps the best way to truly experience the rich, refined culture of Fermo and mingle with friendly locals.
• Visit a chalet ��� Do visit one or more of the chalets located on the beach in Fermo. A chalet is comparable to a “beach club” in the United States, but in Italy the concept is much broader. Fermo is home to several of these popular beachside hang out spots. Each chalet varies in the services they offer, but most provide fresh food, refreshments, alcoholic beverages, and entertainment. Most chalets also provide beach necessities like umbrellas and beach chairs. Visiting a chalet will definitely enhance your beach going experience in Fermo.

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ].

In Italy, each region and even specific towns within the larger regions have unique culinary offerings, in which they take great pride. Fermo is no exception. Being on the coastline, “la cucina tipica” of Fermo often contains various types of seafood, such as calamari, mussels, and crab. Fermo is also known for its delicious lasagna, which comes in a variety of styles depending on available ingredients and family traditions. Perhaps the true culinary masters of Fermo are found in households, rather than in restaurants. Do not be discouraged from eating out, however. Restaurants still offer delicious food that is representative of the distinct local cuisine. It is important to note that language differences may be an issue when communicating at restaurants in Fermo. Most of the larger, well-established restaurants will have English-speaking staff members to help tourists out, but some of the smaller local eateries may not. Language barriers should not discourage you when choosing a place to eat. Anywhere you go, you will find that the staff is hospitable and eager to help you. Restaurants in Fermo may be slightly different from what most tourists are accustomed to, in that the menus normally have very few options. Because the food is so fresh and all locally grown and produced, its availability may change from day to day. Therefore, instead of extensive menu choices, a server will inform you of the daily specialties that have been created by the chef according to what is available on the given day. It is recommended to order from these specially crafted dishes. Below are a few of the restaurant options in Fermo.

• Locanda del Palio – This lovely restaurant located close to the main square, Piazza del Popolo, features traditional “Marchigiana” cuisine. The menu is in Italian, but English speaking staff members are available to assist you in ordering. This restaurant receives great reviews from foreigners and locals alike. People also note that the décor of this restaurant is wonderfully unique and authentic to Fermo.
• Ristorante Emilio - This beautiful restaurant is located close to the so-called "Piazzetta", AKA Largo Fogliani, a lovely small square on the western side of the city center. It features the typical Fermo cuisine, with reasonable prices and a good service. Mostly famous for its tripe and the great "King's Ravioli", a stuffed pasta appreciated by nerds worldwide.
• Osteria Il Galeone – This upscale restaurant is located in Torre di Palme, which is a small town very close by to Fermo. It offers many homemade meat and fish dishes that incorporate high quality local ingredients. The restaurant and its chef have received numerous recognitions and awards. Another attractive feature of this restaurant is the terrace, where one can sit and enjoy a meal with a breathtaking view of the Adriatic Sea.
• Gelateria Yogurteria Pelacani – If you have just enjoyed a meal or you are in the mood for a sweet snack, try the delicious gelato or yogurt at this beachside “gelateria.” Gelato is an Italian specialty that is similar to similar to ice cream. This particular “gelateria” is very popular among the locals of Fermo.

Drink [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ].

There are a few options for overnight accommodations while in Fermo. Most tourists will choose to stay in a hotel. There are many hotels in Fermo to choose from, ranging from fairly cheap to very pricey. Keep in mind that hotel rooms in Italy, on the whole, are much smaller than the rooms to which most tourists from the United States are accustomed. Rooms can be easily booked over the internet.

An increasingly popular option for tourists is a stay at a local farm. Agritourism, is a rapidly growing type of tourism in la Marche region of Italy, and more specifically Fermo has several options available for travelers who do not wish to stay in a traditional hotel. Local farmers offer rooms, meals, apartments and villas to tourists who seek out an authentic travel experience. This option is a good value, as well, but prices are known to rise during peak tourist seasons. Many of the restored farm houses have pools.

For more adventurous tourists, camp sites are frequent along the coastline in Fermo and the surrounding areas. These sites are usually very well maintained. Many of them have small shops and places for other outdoor recreation activities.

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Top Things to Do in Fermo, Italy - Fermo Must-See Attractions

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• Piazza del Popolo
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Just 7 kilometres from the Adriatic sea , in a stunning location in the foothills separating the Eta Vivo and Tenna valleys, the city of Fermo extends over a steep hillside dominated by the Cathedral. Visitors are entranced by the amazing panoramic views of the sea, from the scenic vistas along the roads and from the Girfalco hill to the unexpected glimpses between the rooftops.

Capture the real charm and beauty of Fermo by taking a stroll through its narrow winding streets - often made entirely of terracotta, a legacy of the town's Roman and medieval origins - and through the alleys lined with dark shadowy buildings. Or admire the fifteenth-century palaces and Renaissance buildings that have silently witnessed the city's history over the centuries. You can find them in Corso Cavour, Corso Cefalonia and Piazza del Popolo:

the true heart and symbol of Fermo. Piazza del Popolo, which has seen so much of the life of this city over the centuries, is also a beautiful gateway to the Girofalco hill. Overlooking the square are the city's iconic landmarks including the Renaissance-era  Palazzo dei Priori , a historic building contains the public art gallery and the Sala del Mappamondo, or Globe Room. It is home to the library's oldest map collections and takes its name from the globe created in 1713 by the cartographer Amanzio Moroncelli from Fabriano. In the city centre you'll also find the Apostolic Palace and the Duomo , with its asymmetric facade made of Istrian stone. Inside, you'll find an impressive collection of artworks, including a 12th-century Greek-Byzantine icon and the remains of the mosaic floor from the 5th-century Paleochristian church on which it was built. The square with its loggia architecture is also used as a market area and meeting point, and is and the perfect place for a relaxing walk through the arcades. The loggia balcony connecting Palazzo dei Priori to Palazzo degli Studi is very beautiful: remember to look upwards as you walk along it, so as not to miss the beautiful frescoed vaults. And if you do happen to be in Fermo on a Thursday evening during the summer, you certainly won't want to miss the antiques and crafts market held in the arcades throughout July and August.

63900 Fermo FM, Italia

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Fermo, Italy, a hill town in the popular Marches region

Visit Fermo

Fermo is a hill town to the east of the Marche region of Italy, near the Adriatic coast, well known for the very impressive views in all directions across the surrounding region.

Explore Fermo

A visit to Fermo can start from Piazza del Popolo where the Palazzo dei Priori is located. This palace was started in 1296 and completed around 1590, and the building now houses the Art Gallery and Archaeological Museum of Picenum.

Art Gallery and Archaeological Museum

In the Art Gallery there are works ranging from the Medieval Ages to the 19th century. Among the works of art preserved in the Pinacoteca note especially those by Jacobello di Bonomo (active from 1375 to 1385) and Jacobello del Fiore (1370 ca.-1439), and several paintings by Vincenzo Pagani (1490 ca.-1568).

Other important works here include an altarpiece by Andrea da Bologna (active in the 15th century); "The Adoration of the Shepherds", by Flemish painter  Paul Rubens (1577-1640); "Pentecost" by Giovanni Lanfranco (1582-1647), and other works by local artists, including Francescuccio Cecco Ghissi (1359-1385) and Vittore Crivelli (1440 ca.-1502 ca.).

The Archaeological Museum exhibits some pre-Roman artefacts discovered in Fermo and its surroundings, such as belts, jewellery and urns.

Other Fermo highlights

Close to the Palazzo dei Priori is the Town Library , the richest to be found in the Marches region of Italy. Dating back to 1511, the Library contains over one hundred 'codes', and about six hundred 'incunabula'.

Continuing along the Via degli Aceti ('Street of Vinegar') we can visit the famous Roman Cistern, also called the "pools of depuration", located under the buildings that occupy the east side of Piazza del Popolo.

Thought to have been built by Augustus in the first century AD, the cistern testifies to the construction skills of the Ancient Romans*. The structure consists of thirty rooms, occupying a total area of about 2000 square meters.

* The need for an adequate water supply in Fermo required the building of an ingenious system of collection and water distribution in the city with the Cisterns playing an important role as a reservoir of drinking water.

Along the Corso we can enjoy some of the most important monuments in Fermo, such as the the Church of Carmine, the Vitali-Rosati Palace, the medieval Matteucci Tower, Paccaroni Palace and the Church of St. Philip.

The Carmine Church was built at the beginning of the 14th century: the facade is in brick with pilasters of travertine while the interior has a basilica form with three naves divided by columns and arches. In the apse there is an altarpiece, "The Nativity" by Giambattista Gaulli, called the “Baciccio” (1639-1709).

The Church of St. Philip was probably designed by Giovanni Antonio Dosio (1533-1609). The façade (unfinished) is decorated with an elegant Doric portal in Istrian stone and the interior is in the form of a Latin cross with a transept nave, flanked by six chapels on pillars having the shape of a cross. The altar, of classical Corinthian order, is of Istrian stone and polychrome marble.

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Fermo cathedral

Among the religious buildings the Cathedral of Fermo stands out. It was built in 1227 on the site of an early Christian church, called 'Santa Maria in Castello', dating back to the 5th century. Burned in 1176 by Frederick Barbarossa, it was reconstructed in a composite style, combining Romanesque and Gothic elements.

The cathedral façade has three buttresses, with edges of spiral columns. At the center of the façade there is a portal with round-headed arches resting on pillars and columns, which frame the bronze doors by the sculptor Aldo Sergiacomi (1912-1994).

The bell tower dates from 1425 with mullioned windows and polychrome pottery, and is decorated with a double row of arches. The interior has three naves, divided by massive circular columns.

Elsewhere in Fermo

Nearby, there is the medieval Church of San Zenone , the oldest church in Fermo having been built in 1171 and consecrated in 1186. In Romanesque style, the lower part is in stone and the upper part in brick. The bell tower (13th century) has large arches and mullioned windows above. The interior dates from the late 18th century and is by Pietro Augustoni (1741-1815).

Coming further along Largo Alvaro Valentini we find the Oratory of St. Monica . Inside you can see some valuable frescoes, as an example of the late Gothic style of Fermo. The Oratory of Santa Monica was built in 1425 as a church dedicated to St. John the Baptist and it presents a façade which has the shape of a cabin, while the interior has a nave, with vaulted ceilings.

In Via XXI September there are some important palaces dating from various periods in fermo's history. Note especially Paccarone Palace , with its facade of brick and incorporating an existing tower - note particularly the wood of the portal which mimics masonry.

Leaving the city through Porta Santa Caterina, in addition to an attractive landscape, tourists can admire the Church of St. Augustine , dating back to the mid-13th century. It is of Romanesque and Gothic style, and underwent several renovations in the mid-14th century and later. The church has a façade preceded by a staircase, while in the hall there are two 14th century frescoes, "The Nativity" and a "Madonna and Child with Saints." Inside (XVIII c.), it has a nave, a Latin cross form, and many frescoes dating back to the 13th and 15th centuries.

Fermo, a town of strong traditions

Fermo is undoubtedly an important art city, but today it has also developed, thanks to its proximity to the sea, a tourist industry linked to the beauty of the town and region, and the strong local traditions.

These include culinary traditions offering typical products such as olives, the“maccheroncini di Campofilone” ('Campofilone little-macaroni'), “vincisgrassi", excellent "ciauscolo"; and also cheese, honey and traditional desserts such as so-called “Cicerchiata”.

See also history of Fermo

You can find more local travel ideas in the Marche guide .

Map of Fermo and places to visit

Fermo places to visit.

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Things to Do in Fermo: Central Italy’s Hidden Gem

Fermo , in the province of Marche , Italy , is one of our favorite little towns in Europe. We discovered it some years ago and have been back a couple of times. The last time, we went with our family and had two incredible weeks!

Italy is our favorite country in Europe. That’s why we go there at least twice a year. What can we say? We can’t have enough of the country’s architecture, nature, culture, food, and people. No wonder Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world.

However, Fermo is still completely under the radar. Very few foreigners visit, and that’s why we love it! In Fermo, you will experience the real Italy, without the crowds that overrun Venice , Rome , or Milan . Therefore, you will have time to enjoy the dolce vita and fall in love with this gorgeous town.

Things to Do in Fermo

Get lost on the streets of the old town.

You won’t believe how many things you have to do and see in Fermo. The best way to do so is by walking about the streets of the Old Town . We are talking about curvy cobbled streets and plazas lined with fantastic architecture. Every single street is worth your time, so don’t rush.

You have several churches to discover. The first one you will see within the city walls is Santa Catarina . Saint Dominic Church is from the 13 th Century, with baroque additions. From there, walk to San Pietro , Madonna , and Filipo Neri churches. Local people pray inside the churches, so be respectful.

Our favorite place in Fermo is Girfalco Park . Since it’s on top of the hill, the views from there will take your breath away. Don’t forget to check out, Villa Vince directly in the park. Fermo’s main drag is Cefalonia Street . Stop by Gran Café Belli for authentic Italian food and stunning views.

Visit the Palazzo dei Priori

The Palazzo dei Priori is the town’s grandest palace. It presides over the Piazza del Popolo , the main one in Fermo. The original palace is from 1296 with later additions. The last one is the staircase, added in 1525. There’s a bronze sculpture of Pope Sixtus V on the portal.

The Palazzo houses Fermo’s Art Museum . Actually, the museum occupies another building too. The Romolo Spezioli Library is the yellow building from 1688 next to the Palace. Romolo Spezioli was born in Fermo. He was the doctor of the Queen of Sweden!

If you think the palace looks beautiful from the outside, wait till you get inside. There are prints, paintings, maps, and some 30000 ancient books! Don’t forget to check the World Map Hall. There’s an elaborate world map from 1688. There’s even a gorgeous painting by Peter Paul Rubens!

Explore the Roman Cisterns

Who would have thought that cute little Fermo was so important in ancient times? Romans gave the city its original name, Firmum. They built one of the biggest water cisterns in the empire. In fact, the cisterns are amongst the biggest on the planet. The entire complex has an area of 530000 cubic feet (15000 cubic meters).

The complex is one of the oldest in the world too. Construction of the cisterns began in the 1 st Century BC and ended in the 1 st Century AC. The cisterns are beneath the Piazza dei Popolo. To visit the Big Roman Cisterns go to Via degli Aceti, open from 10:30 AM to 18:30 PM.

Bring proper shoes and a light coat, even in summer. It’s pretty humid inside. The short tour is in Italian, but you get printed information in English too. Once done with the big cisterns, go to the Small Cisterns , also part of the complex. These are on Largo Temistocle, south of the square.

Tour the Teatro dell’Aquila

You won’t believe that such a grand theatre could be built in Fermo. Then again, Italians have an obsession with the performing arts that goes back to ancient times. Marche Region has hundreds of theatres built from the 16 th to 19 th Centuries. Teatro dell’Aquila opened in 1792.

However, a fire in 1826 destroyed most of the interior. That’s why the frescoes on the ceiling are from 1828. The giant chandelier made in Paris was installed in 1830. Major refurbishments took place from 1876 to 1878. The 20 th Century wasn’t kind to the theatre. Fortunately, it was completely restored in 1997.

Some of Italy’s most celebrated composers visited the theatre. In 1886, Giacomo Puccini himself saw his own Le Villi opera in the theatre. Arturo Toscanini visited two years later and loved it. Giuseppe Garibaldi visited too. The theatre is on Via Giuseppe Mazzini, beneath the park.

Visit Fermo Cathedral

The massive temple that crowns Girfalco hill in Fermo is the Cathedral. The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta towers above Girfalco Park, the highest point in the city. The first temple on the site was pagan. The one we can see today is from 1227.

Construction continued for the next decades. As you will notice, the façade is both Romanesque and Gothic. It’s entirely done in Istrian stone. Giacomo Palmieri sculpted the intricate rose window in 1348. However, the giant bronze doors are from 1980. The interior of the temple is as impressive as the exterior!

The massive nave was altered in the late 18 th Century. That’s why it looks neoclassical. That said, the frescoes in the atrium are the original ones from the 14 th Century. The crypt is from the 13 th Century. There are sarcophagi from the 3 rd Century inside the crypt.

Enjoy the Best Views of Fermo

As mentioned, Fermo sits on a lovely hill overlooking the sea and rolling hills. The town looks straight out of a fairy tale! You will be able to enjoy epic views from all over the city. There are several viewing platforms where locals spend time socializing.

The best views of the east are from the viewing platform next to the Cathedral . You get to see the Piazza del Popolo and the sea. This is the best place to see the sunrise. The best views to the north are also from Girfalco Parc. Tall trees line this viewing platform.

To enjoy views to the west, you have to go down Via Ognisanti Street. There isn’t a proper platform, but you will be able to see fantastic sunsets. The best views to the south are from the platform on Vittorio Veneto Avenue . As mentioned, to eat and drink with views go to the Grand Café Belli.

Visit Two Musems

Palazzo Paccaroni is one of the nicest buildings in the city. It’s on Corso Cavour in the center. The grand palace hosts two museums. Both are worth your time. The palace is an attraction in itself. You will see lovely frescoes on the ceilings and art everywhere.

Silvio Zavatti was an Italian scientist who dedicated his life to studying the poles. He opened the Polar Museum Silvio Zavatti almost 100 years ago. The museum is not that big, but pretty interesting. You will see original objects, art, and maps. He traveled extensively to Antarctica, the Artic, Canada, Lapland, and Greenland.

The other museum is the Tommaso Salvadori Museum of Natural Sciences . Salvadori was one of the leading scientists in Italy during the late 19 th Century and the beginning of the 20 th Century. In fact, he was one of the most famous ornithologists in Europe. His collection includes specimens from all over the country.

Visit the Local Market

Fermo comes to life every Saturday with its incredible local market . People from the town and all over the region take over the streets in the center. They sell everything, including crafts, antiques, and clothes. Even if you don’t buy anything, you will have a blast.

We love the market because it’s completely authentic. You won’t see any touristy stuff. Actually, you may be the only tourist there. Sellers start arriving in the morning, and the market is in full swing by noon. Don’t worry if you get hungry. There’s plenty of delicious local food.

In summer you will see the Cavalcata dell’Assunta . On August 14 th and 15 th , the city goes medieval and re-enacts a parade that goes back to the 12 th Century. Everyone dresses up, there are gorgeous horses, competitions, and food! Fermo looks amazing during Christmas, with decorations, events, and a colorful market.

Spend Some Time on the Beach

If you are in Fermo from May to October, you have to go to the beach. Actually, even if you visit in winter, go to the beach. It’s Italy, so the weather in winter is not that bad, and you can walk along the coast and enjoy the seaside towns.

The closest beach is only 5 miles (8 km) east of Fermo. You will see it from the top of the hill! Porto San Giorgio is a cute seaside town linked to Fermo since ancient times. Today, people from the region visit to enjoy the beach and its famed seafood.

Don’t forget to check Rocca Tiepolo . The 13th-Century fortress was used to protect the city from Turkish and Venetian invaders. San Giorgio Church from 1834 is next to the fortress. Piazza Luzi is the nicest square in the town. The best restaurants in San Giorgio are on the seaside promenade.

Go on a Day Trip to Torre di Palme

Torre di Palme is some 7 miles (12 km) southeast of Fermo. The tiny little village is perched on a hill overlooking the sea. A lush green pine forest surrounds the village. That’s why it’s such a great place to trek. There are a couple of safe and easy trails to explore the area.

The views from Torre di Palme will take your breath away. Especially from the platform east of the center. Santa Maria A Mare church is there. The terracotta temple is from the 12 th Century! Don’t forget to check the arched monastery next to it. From there, walk to Saint Augustine Church .

Torre di Palme is one of the nicest villages in Italy. Fortunately, it’s pretty much under the radar, so mostly locals visit. As tiny as it is, don’t rush and enjoy the atmosphere. History buffs should visit the Archeological Museum of Torre di Palme . If you are into wine, head to Evoe Bistrot Restaurant . For real Italian ice cream, head to Le Logge Gelateria .

How to Get to Fermo

Fermo is some 170 miles (270 km) south of Bologna . The fastest way to go to Fermo is by train from Bologna Centrale to Porto San Giorgio. The journey is an attraction in itself, so be sure to grab a window seat. It’s a 3-hour trip through fields and next to the sea.

Once in Porto San Giorgio, you have to take the bus that goes directly to Fermo in 15 minutes. If you are in Florence , it’s better to go first to Bologna and then to Fermo. From Ravenna , you can take a bus to Cesena and then hop on the train to Porto San Giorgio.

Once we traveled for an entire month around Emilia Romagna . We based ourselves in Bologna and visited Ferrara , Modena and Parma . Then we went to Fermo. Fermo is some 155 miles (250 km) east of Rome . There are no trains linking both cities. Therefore, you have to take a 3.5-hour bus to Porto San Giorgio.

Where to Stay in Fermo

Since Fermo is off the beaten path, there aren’t many hotels. We are not complaining! That’s why we love the town. The best one is Hotel Astoria . Since the hotel is in the center, you can walk everywhere. The rooms are big and comfortable. The hotel has a lovely terrace with stunning views.

If you are looking for apartments, we recommend Resort A Palazzo B&B , also in the center. The hotel is a real palazzo refurbished to include modern-day conveniences. You will love the tall ceilings with frescoes, wooden floors, and gorgeous fixtures. The fully equipped suites and apartments are huge.

The best hotel on the beach is B&B Galletto . The property is next to the coast, in the center. The train and the bus stations are less than 10 minutes on foot. It’s a simple hotel with very comfortable rooms. The best ones have balconies with sea views.

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Explore Fermo

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Panoramic view of Fermo

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Fermo, its landscapes and history

A complete itinerary to discover the city of fermo and its surroundings.

This is our most comprehensive tour of Fermo and the surrounding area. We start from the heart of the historic town centre, through the main streets and the main sites of interest. Then we go along a panoramic ridge and up to the Matteucci watchtower, once used to look out for Saracen incursions from the Adriatic Sea. Going up from the abbey of San Marco alle Paludi , we take in the amazing view of the north side of the city until we reach Girfalco hill , the cathedral and sprawling scenery from Monte Conero in the north to Gran Sasso in the south. We finish with refreshments in the shade provided by the loggias in Piazza del Popolo , like modern bike-riding knights.

• Tuesdays at 9.30 am all year round.
• Other dates available by request. Minimum of 2 participants.

Booking required by choosing one of the following methods:

• At your accommodation facility
• On www.ebikenellemarche.it
• By email : [email protected]
• By phone : 0734229178 or 3281362503
• rented e-bike and helmet
• certified cycling guide
• refreshments

A jewel worth visiting between sea and countryside, it is one of the oldest and most beautiful abbeys in Fermo.

The Girfalco Park is a wonderful green area that surrounds the Metropolitan Cathedral, the spiritual heart of Fermo’s history.

The Fermo Cathedral, the Cathedral of the town, rises on Girfalco Hill and it shows a Romanesque-Gothic facade and mainly neoclassical interiors.

Piazza del Popolo is the heart of the town of Fermo. Bordered by 16th century porticoes in bricks, it houses the oldest public buildings of the town.

Visit Fermo

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• Italiano ( Italian )