The Verdicchio Castles of Jesi
The territory surrounding Vittoria il Graditempo is dotted with the famous Castles of Jesi (Castelli di Jesi), a collection of splendid medieval villages set on the rolling hills of the Vallesina valley. Their presence offers a perfect itinerary for everyone: a unique blend of culture and food & wine, ideal both for history enthusiasts and for travelers wishing to slow down and discover authentic flavors.
Exploring these lands means immersing oneself in a millenary tradition, where the beauty of historical town centers merges with an intact and charming rural landscape dotted with countless wineries.
The Villages of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi
In the Middle Ages, these villages were defensive territories subjected to the Countryside of Jesi (Contado di Jesi), the Royal City that gave birth to Emperor Frederick II of Swabia. A fascinating example is nearby Rosora, a tiny perched village that still retains sections of its defensive walls, a castle gate, and a 13th-century tower, offering a wide view stretching all the way to the Adriatic Sea.
Joining Rosora are the other Castles: Belvedere Ostrense, Castelbellino, Castelplanio, Cupramontana, Maiolati Spontini, Monsano, Montecarotto, Monte Roberto, Morro d’Alba, Poggio Cupro, Poggio San Marcello, San Marcello, San Paolo di Jesi, Santa Maria Nuova, and Scisciano.
Today, these historic fortresses are the cradle of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, a fine wine you can discover and taste by visiting the region’s countless wineries.
Cupramontana and the Wine Label Museum
Among the Castles, Cupramontana stands out as the capital of Verdicchio. This village is an unmissable stop connecting local culture to the world of wine, hosting the famous International Wine Label Museum inside the atmospheric spaces of the Musei in Grotta (Cave Museums).
Inside, it preserves a collection of historical and contemporary wine labels from all over the world—unique in its kind—alongside an exhibition path and a wine cellar where art meets winemaking tradition. A dynamic and intriguing visit, perfect for enriching your day before treating yourself to a top-tier stop in local wineries.
