Fermo​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 27 November 2023
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. 
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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Profile
Fermo is a town located in the Marche region of central Italy. With its rich history, cultural heritage, and picturesque surroundings, it offers visitors a delightful experience. 
History
Fermo has ancient origins, dating back to the Roman era when it was known as Firmum Picenum. It was an important Roman colony along the Via Salaria, a major road connecting Rome to the Adriatic Sea.

Over the centuries, Fermo witnessed the rule of various powers, including the Lombards, Byzantines, and the Papal States. The town flourished during the medieval period, and its historical center reflects its architectural and artistic heritage.
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
Province: Fermo

Region: Marche

Population: 36,168 ​(source: ISTAT 1 January 2022)

​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

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Royal

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).
​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)

Fermo  Gallery

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