Offagna – Pg Marche Tourism Ph. @ Sergio Ramazzotti
Planning a vacation to a typical coastal resort is a popular decision for many. However, the charm, cultural heritage and scenic wonders of Italian villages are capturing the attention of an increasing number of people. Whether in Italy, in regions such as Marche, or in neighboring Croatia, it is possible to find villages overlooking the sea, in the countryside or placidly perched on mountains. Small centers that allow you to immerse yourself in folklore, traditions and local food and wine products. But above all, the villages are custodians of art and history.
Offagna and Corinaldo: the province of Ancona waiting to be discovered
Joining the list of Italy’s most beautiful villages, Offagna has the fortress as its symbol. In July, it hosts the event known as “Feste Medievali,” which sees tourists immerse themselves in a unique atmosphere to admire artisans, knights engaged in facing each other in the palio, fire-eaters, ladies in ancient-era dresses and magicians. Instead, it is the truly majestic (they are 912 meters long) and well-preserved fortified walls and the famous Piaggia that characterize Corinaldo. Those who have already visited this village remember its great towers and narrow alleys, as well as its gastronomic tradition of absolute value. Among cheeses, honey, oil and the renowned Verdicchio wine, the satisfaction of all five senses is assured. Even more deserving of lunch or dinner are those who choose to climb the aforementioned Piaggia, a staircase with 100 steps that, at half height, houses the Pozzo della Polenta.
Pozzo della Polenta, Corinaldo – Johan Dijkstra/shutterstock
Ostra, Genga and Staffolo among wines and crescia
Those who choose to leave for Croatia by ferry from Ancona will have an opportunity to visit another medieval village surrounded by fortified walls while waiting: Ostra. Surrounded by the vineyards from which the famous Lacrima di Morro d’Alba wine is made, it is appreciated for its towers and historic buildings, with the aristocratic palaces in primis. Genga, a small village set in a natural park, finds its main attraction in the Frasassi Caves, with their striking stalactites and stalagmites. An afternoon spent at a spa, perhaps accompanied by a crescia di polenta (a typical recipe usually accompanied by salami and cheese), will be an excellent complement to the day. Like Corinaldo, Staffolo is also distinguished by a city wall about 1 km long. But it is its privileged position, close to the sea, that has led many to call it one of the most beautiful “balconies” in its Region. Getting to Staffolo means first tackling the path that leads through the vineyards. In this regard, it is during the second week of August that the village hosts the “Verdicchio Wine Festival.” Another popular event, organized during the third Sunday in September, is the “Verdicchio d’Oro,” a national gastronomy award.
Grotte di Frasassi, Genga
Croatia from Varadzin to Komiža
Having arrived in Croatia from Ancona, charming villages follow one another from north to south. Varazdin, located in the northern part of Croatia, was founded during the 9th century AD. Distinguished by Baroque-style buildings, it is also home to several festivals, starting with the “Baroque Festival.” A must-see is the Cemetery: in addition to being surrounded by greenery, it features valuable artistic monuments. Also attracting tourists are the Castle, Medvednica Nature Park the Venetian Sermage Palace and the City Museum. Those who choose southern Croatia as their destination, on the other hand, cannot give up Pula. Its Roman Amphitheater is one of the best preserved on the globe, and it is regularly the site of concerts and festivals such as the summer Pula Film Festival. In the warmer season, the beaches welcome many tourists, giving them an opportunity to eat local food in the many restaurants there: olive oil and Istrian truffles often feature on menus. It is on the island of Vis, at the foot of Mount Hum, that Komiža is located. Strolling through the narrow streets of this fishing village, heading up the mountain, means breathing in a very special bohemian atmosphere. The many stone houses dating from the 7th and 18th centuries are worth photographing. Museum enthusiasts have the option of reaching the Renaissance-era Kaštel district and landing at the “Fishing Museum,” which, in addition to displaying ancient equipment in its halls, offers a breathtaking view from the terrace located on the top floor.
Varazdin – Milan Duniskvaric/flickr
If in winter the mountains exert an irresistible lure, from March to late October it is impossible not to be won over by the charm of the villages. And this is especially true for those who prefer vacations away from typical mass tourism. Only villages are able to give back to tourists the real daily life of their residents. And if Italy is full of must-see destinations in this respect, Croatia, which can be easily reached by ferry, also has several surprises in store.
