Fermo
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By Dion Protani
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The city of Fermo is the capital city of the Province of Fermo with a population of 37,119 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 319 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 124 km² and lies 65 kilometres south of Ancona, the regional capital of Marche. The main sights of Fermo include its 13th century Gothic cathedral which sits at the top of a hill, a ten minute walk from the city centre. |
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In the lower, busier part of the city is the beautiful Piazza del Popolo with the Palazzo dei Priori its most impressive building.
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Fermo • Marche • Historic Town and Provincial Capital
Fermo is a historic town located in the southern part of the Marche region, in the province of Fermo. Situated inland, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, with the hills and plains stretching out towards the Adriatic Sea. Fermo is known for its rich cultural heritage, with a history that dates back to Roman times, and its charming medieval architecture, making it an interesting destination for those interested in both history and scenic beauty.
The town centre is home to several impressive landmarks, including the Roman theatre, which is a remarkable reminder of its ancient past, and the Palazzo dei Priori, an elegant Renaissance building that houses the town's civic museum. Fermo’s historic centre is full of narrow streets, squares, and churches, such as the Cathedral of Fermo, which showcases beautiful artwork and is an important religious site. Visitors can also enjoy strolling through the town’s lively piazzas, where local cafes and shops offer a taste of everyday life in this charming town.
Nearby, the coastal town of Porto San Giorgio offers a more relaxed seaside atmosphere with its sandy beaches and bustling marina. To the south, the town of Civitanova Marche provides more in terms of urban amenities, including a lively seafront and shopping areas. With its blend of history, culture, and proximity to the coast, Fermo serves as an excellent base for exploring the Marche region.
The town centre is home to several impressive landmarks, including the Roman theatre, which is a remarkable reminder of its ancient past, and the Palazzo dei Priori, an elegant Renaissance building that houses the town's civic museum. Fermo’s historic centre is full of narrow streets, squares, and churches, such as the Cathedral of Fermo, which showcases beautiful artwork and is an important religious site. Visitors can also enjoy strolling through the town’s lively piazzas, where local cafes and shops offer a taste of everyday life in this charming town.
Nearby, the coastal town of Porto San Giorgio offers a more relaxed seaside atmosphere with its sandy beaches and bustling marina. To the south, the town of Civitanova Marche provides more in terms of urban amenities, including a lively seafront and shopping areas. With its blend of history, culture, and proximity to the coast, Fermo serves as an excellent base for exploring the Marche region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Piazza del Popolo: The heart of Fermo is the Piazza del Popolo, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings. The Palazzo dei Priori, the Town Hall, and the Civic Tower are some of the prominent landmarks found here.
- Fermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Fermo): The Cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, is an architectural gem. It features a stunning Romanesque-Gothic facade, and its interior houses valuable artworks and religious relics.
- Roman Cisterns: The town boasts well-preserved Roman cisterns, also known as the "Cisterne Romane." These underground water reservoirs are an intriguing example of ancient Roman engineering.
- Roman Amphitheatre: Near the Cathedral, visitors can find the remains of a Roman amphitheatre. Though only partially excavated, it gives insight into the town's Roman past.
- Teatro dell'Aquila: This historic theatre, dating back to the 18th century, is an elegant venue for cultural events and performances.
- Museums: Fermo has several museums worth exploring, including the Diocesan Museum, Civic Art Gallery, and Pinacoteca Civica.
- Palio dell'Assunta: The town hosts a traditional horse race called Palio dell'Assunta every August 15th to celebrate the Assumption of Mary.
- Scenic Views: Fermo offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, the Adriatic Sea, and the Sibillini Mountains in the distance.
- Gastronomy: Fermo is known for its delicious cuisine, including specialties like olive all'ascolana (stuffed olives), vincisgrassi (a local lasagna dish), and brodetto (fish stew).
- Nearby Attractions: Fermo's location allows visitors to explore other charming towns in the region, including Torre di Palme, Porto San Giorgio, and Offida.
Comune di Fermo
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Province: Fermo
Region: Marche Population: 35,893 (in 2024 - source) Size: 124 km² Elevation: 319 metres Highlights: Fermo Cathedral, Piazza del Popolo, Palazzo dei Priori Close by: Porto San Giorgio, Torre di Palme, Pedaso, Lido di Fermo |
My recommended accommodation options for Fermo:
- Hotel Astoria Located in the centre of Fermo, this hotel offers rooms with classic décor and modern amenities. Guests appreciate the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, the on-site restaurant serving regional cuisine, and the short walk to Piazza del Popolo. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa Lattanzi Situated near the Adriatic coast, this luxury hotel is set in a restored historic villa surrounded by parkland. Visitors enjoy the elegant furnishings, the on-site wellness centre, and the hotel’s close proximity to both Fermo and the beach. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Royal Located in Casabianca di Fermo, this beachfront hotel offers modern rooms with sea views and direct access to the beach. Guests value the outdoor swimming pool, the on-site restaurant specialising in local seafood, and the easy access to the coastal promenade. €€ (mid-range)
- Villa Nazareth Fermo Situated just outside the town centre, this hotel provides comfortable rooms with essential amenities. Visitors appreciate the peaceful surroundings, the availability of free private parking, and the convenience of a nearby bus stop for travel into Fermo. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Lanterna Located in the heart of Fermo’s historic centre, this bed and breakfast offers rooms with city views and modern facilities. Guests enjoy the central location, which provides easy access to historical landmarks, cafés, and local markets. € (budget)
Fermo Gallery
Fermo Travel
Fermo doesn't have a train station in the city, it shares one with Porto San Giorgio (Stazione Porto San Giorgio Fermo), which is something of a misnomer given that the station is entirely in Porto San Giorgio and 7 kilometres away from Fermo. A bus connects the two locations with a journey time of 15 minutes.
The closest airport to Fermo is Marche Airport near Ancona which is a drive of 53 minutes and 77 kilometres. Alternatives include Pescara Airport in Abruzzo (108 km) or Rimini Airport in Emilia Romagna (159 km).
The closest airport to Fermo is Marche Airport near Ancona which is a drive of 53 minutes and 77 kilometres. Alternatives include Pescara Airport in Abruzzo (108 km) or Rimini Airport in Emilia Romagna (159 km).
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Public transport: local buses
Nearest train station: Porto San Giorgio Fermo (7 km) |
By car: Macerata - 39 mins (41 km), Ancona - 55 mins (70 km)
Fly to: Marche Airport - 53 minutes by car (77 km) |
