Marche Breaks

On a high hill, immersed in vineyards, Monteprandone is located in a dominating position on the river Tronto Valley.

It was probably founded by refugees from the ancient town of Truentum, on the river Tronto, and was integrated into Ascoli’s territories in 1292.

The most ancient document on Monteprandone’s castle dates back to 1039, when Guido Massaro donated the castle and the church San Nicolò to the Abbey of Farfa.

The castle was then under the rule of Fermo. According to the tradition, the municipality’s name stems from Prandone or Brandone, the name of a warrior who struggled with Charlemagne.

Between the 14th and the 15th centuries Monteprandone widened its boundaries with the annexation of several castles. Its territory was reduced in 1935, when Porto D'Ascoli separated from the Municipality.

The Town Hall currently hosts the Giacomo della Marca’s Library, he was a theologian and saint born in Monteprandone at the end of the 14th century. The collection includes many codes, some of which signed, others with miniatures.

They were almost all restored. Walking in the historic centre of Monteprandone, passing through medieval streets, visitors may admire the Collegiate church San Nicolò, where a beautiful wooden Crucifix of the late 14th century is preserved.

To craftwork enthusiasts Monteprandone offers a rich production of arts ceramics, whereas oenology enthusiasts cannot but visit the many wine-producing industries, which produce the red wines called Rosso Piceno and Piceno Superiore.

The village also boasts a charming view, thanks to its location on a hill along the Adriatic coast. It faces the valley created by the river Tronto and the stream Ragnola. From the ruins of the castle, visitors may enjoy a view that ranges from the sea to the Mounts Sibillini and the Mounts Maiella and Gran Sasso.