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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Macerata.
Macerata, the pearl of the Marche region, is a city that enchants its visitors with its artistic treasures, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights.
Whether you want to stroll through its charming streets or discover the hidden gems that lie beyond its walls, Macerata promises a journey of unforgettable experiences that will leave you spellbound.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Macerata:
1. Sferisterio Arena
Sferisterio Arena is an open-air opera house located in Macerata, Italy.
What to see or do: The arena is known for its impressive neoclassical architecture and hosts various performances throughout the year, including operas, concerts and theatrical events.
Don’t miss: The arena is particularly renowned for its annual opera festival, which takes place every summer and draws big names from the world of opera.
Insider travel tips: While there are no bad seats at Sferisterio Arena, it’s recommended to arrive early to secure prime viewing spots. Additionally, visitors should be prepared for potentially hot and humid weather, as performances take place outdoors.
2. Palazzo Buonaccorsi
Historic palace in Macerata, Italy dating back to the 17th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and its stunning interior, which features frescoes, antique furniture, and artwork from the 16th to 19th centuries.
There are also beautiful gardens to explore outside.
Don’t miss: The impressive Grand Hall, known for its richly decorated stucco work and large mirrors, as well as the ornate chapel with its painted ceiling and intricate altar.
Insider travel tips: Book your tour in advance to ensure availability, and wear comfortable shoes as the palace has several flights of stairs. Visiting during cooler months may be more enjoyable as the palace can get quite hot during summer.
3. Macerata Cathedral
Macerata Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Julian of the Marches, is a beautiful church located in the city of Macerata, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the impressive facade of the cathedral, which boasts stunning baroque architecture. Inside, visitors will find a beautiful nave, intricate frescoes, and an impressive altarpiece.
The cathedral also houses several chapels with impressive artwork and sculptures.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of Macerata Cathedral is the impressive organ, which boasts more than 6,000 pipes and is considered to be one of the finest organs in Italy.
Visitors should also make a point to see the rose window, which is a masterpiece of stained glass.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the cathedral’s hours of operation before visiting, as it is sometimes closed for mass or other events.
Visitors should also consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral’s history and artwork. Finally, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the cathedral’s stunning beauty.
4. Villa Ficana Archaeological Site
Villa Ficana Archaeological Site is an ancient Roman villa complex located in Macerata.
What to see or do: The archaeological site is home to well-preserved ruins and artifacts including frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures. Visitors can wander through the remains of the baths, the villa, and the surrounding gardens.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the intricate mosaic floors featuring geometric patterns and hunting scenes.
Insider travel tips: The site is not very well-known yet, so it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Additionally, bring comfortable walking shoes as there’s a lot of ground to cover.
5. Civic Art Gallery
The Civic Art Gallery is a museum of art and culture in the historic city of Macerata, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors to the gallery can enjoy a wide array of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art, including works by local artists as well as national and international artists.
The collection spans many centuries, from the Middle Ages to modern times, and includes pieces from a variety of different artistic movements and styles.
Don’t miss: One standout piece in the collection is the triptych by Carlo Crivelli, a 15th-century artist from Venice.
The piece is considered one of the finest examples of Crivelli’s work, and it epitomizes the style of art that was popular in the region during the Renaissance.
Insider travel tips: The Civic Art Gallery is located in the heart of Macerata’s historic city center, and it is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
Admission is affordable, and the museum is open to visitors throughout the year.
Be sure to book a guided tour or audio guide, as this will help you to better appreciate the art and history on display in the museum.
6. Palazzo Ricci Art Gallery
Palazzo Ricci Art Gallery is an impressive art museum located in the heart of Macerata, Italy. The museum is housed in a historic building that dates back to the 1500s.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a vast collection of Medieval and Renaissance art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The galleries are filled with masterpieces by Italian and European artists, such as Titian, Tintoretto, and Guido Reni.
The museum also contains a collection of contemporary art.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Sala di Raffaello, which is dedicated to the work of the great Renaissance artist, Raphael.
The room contains an impressive collection of paintings by the artist and his students.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the museum’s many galleries and exhibitions.
7. San Paolo Monastery
San Paolo Monastery is a beautiful 16th-century Franciscan convent located in the historic city of Macerata in central Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning architecture of the monastery, which features intricate stone carvings, vaulted ceilings, and frescoes painted by renowned local artists.
The peaceful cloister is also a lovely spot to relax and take in the serene surroundings.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the monastery’s museum, which houses an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts. Another highlight is the monastery’s chapel, which features a beautiful wooden altarpiece by Venetian artist Lorenzo Lotto.
Insider travel tips: The monastery offers guided tours that provide a deeper understanding of its history and architecture. Visitors should also check the monastery’s website for information on special events and exhibitions.
Additionally, the nearby city of Macerata is home to a number of other cultural attractions, including a 15th-century university and a contemporary art museum.
8. San Claudio al Chienti Abbey
San Claudio al Chienti Abbey is a beautiful Benedictine abbey located in the medieval town of San Claudio al Chienti in Macerata, Italy.
What to see or do: The abbey boasts beautiful architecture with stunning frescoes and a magnificent pipe organ. Visitors can explore the church, cloister, and other monastic buildings.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the pipe organ, also known as the “King of Instruments.” This instrument has almost 4000 pipes and is considered one of the most beautiful in Italy.
Visitors can even attend concerts or organ performances on certain days.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain around the abbey is quite hilly.
9. Dinosaur Park
A park featuring life-size replicas of various prehistoric creatures.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the park to see over 30 dinosaur and prehistoric animal replicas, including the Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus.
There are also a number of interactive exhibits and displays to enjoy.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to see a life-size replica of the biggest dinosaur that ever lived, the Argentinosaurus. At 100 feet long and weighing 100 tons, it’s an impressive sight to behold.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen as the park can get quite hot in the summer months. Additionally, consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and take advantage of cooler temperatures.
The park is also located near the historic town of Macerata, so consider combining your visit with a trip to see the beautiful architecture and local cuisine.
10. Helvia Recina Archaeological Park
Helvia Recina Archaeological Park is an ancient Roman city discovered in the town of Macerata in central Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the excavated remains of the ancient city, which include a well-preserved amphitheater, remains of ancient houses and shops, and a museum with various artifacts found on site.
Don’t miss: The amphitheater is the highlight of the park and is one of the best-preserved examples of such a structure in Italy.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is during summer when the park hosts outdoor events such as concerts and plays in the amphitheater.
Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking on uneven and often steep terrain. It is also recommended to bring water and sunscreen, as the park can get hot during the summer months.
11. Palazzo San Gervasio
Palazzo San Gervasio is a charming hilltop town located in the province of Potenza, in the Basilicata region of southern Italy.
What to see or do: Explore the narrow, winding streets of the town, where you’ll find picturesque houses and stunning views over the surrounding countryside. Visit the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, an impressive Baroque church with a beautiful interior.
Take a walk in the nearby Parco Nazionale del Pollino, a stunning national park with breathtaking scenery.
Don’t miss: The Palio delle Contrade, a traditional horse race held in the town’s main square every August. The event is a colorful spectacle that brings together locals and visitors alike.
Insider travel tips: Visit the palazzo di Corte, an impressive palace that once served as the residence of the Sanseverino family. The palace has been beautifully restored and now houses the town’s library and cultural center.
If you’re a food lover, be sure to try the local specialty, maccheroni alla mollica, a delicious pasta dish served with breadcrumbs, chili peppers, and pecorino cheese.
12. Church of San Francesco
The Church of San Francesco is a beautiful medieval church located in the heart of Macerata, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning gothic architecture and beautiful frescoes that adorn the interior of the church. Take a quiet moment to sit and reflect in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic place of worship.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the beautiful frescoes by Allegretto Nuzi, depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis of Assisi.
The church also contains works by Lorenzo Lotto and other notable Renaissance artists.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the evening for a magical experience, as the sunlight filtering through the stained glass creates a unique atmosphere.
13. Theatre Lauro Rossi
Theatre Lauro Rossi is a historical theatre located in Macerata, Italy, built in the 19th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can attend performances of opera, ballet, theatre, and concerts. The theatre also hosts the annual Sferisterio Opera Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors every summer.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take in the grandeur of the theatre’s architecture, with its stunning frescoes and ornate decoration. The acoustics of the auditorium are also exceptional, making for an unforgettable performance experience.
Insider travel tips: – Book tickets for performances well in advance, as the theatre has limited seating capacity and tickets sell out quickly.
14. Civic Tower
The Civic Tower is a towering structure located in the heart of Macerata, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
The climb to the top can be strenuous, but the views are worth the effort.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the stunning views from the top of the tower, which provide an excellent vantage point for photographing the cityscape.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes for the climb to the top of the tower.
15. Palazzo dei diamanti
Palazzo dei diamanti is a stunning 18th-century palace located in the heart of Macerata, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the palace and admire its unique architecture, which features over 20,000 white stones that create a diamond-like effect in the sunlight.
Don’t miss: The palace’s gallery, which houses a collection of important artworks from the 15th to the 20th centuries. Be sure to look out for works by Raphael, Rubens, and Botticelli.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the morning to avoid crowds.