Fano (ancient Fanum Fortunae — Temple of Fortune) has two claims that define it: the Arco d'Augusto (20 BC — the best-preserved Roman gate on the Adriatic, partially destroyed by papal artillery in 1463 during a siege by Federico da Montefeltro), and the Carnevale di Fano (documented since 1347 — the oldest carnival in Italy), when the town fills with floats, masks, and the getto de la caramella (throwing candy from the floats — 100 tons of candy annually, more than any other carnival in Italy). Fano is also where Vitruvius built his Basilica (described in De Architectura) — never found, but the Roman grid plan of the town and the theatre ruins are visible. The Moretta di Fano: a coffee drink layered with rum, brandy, anisette, and lemon peel — served at Caffè Centrale since the 19th century, strong enough to wake the dead and delicious enough to join them. Marche →
Plan my Marche trip →Arco d'Augusto (20 BC): A triple-arch Roman gate — the central arch was destroyed in 1463 (a plaque blames "wicked papal forces"), but the side arches and the attic survive. The best view is from outside the walls on Via Arco d'Augusto. Carnevale di Fano (February): Floats, masquerade balls, and the getto — 100+ tons of candy thrown from floats. The oldest documented carnival in Italy (1347). Museo Civico (Palazzo Malatestiano): Paintings including a Guercino and local archaeological finds. €5. The beach: Sandy Adriatic beach — Lido and Sassonia sections. Moretta: Order at Caffè Centrale (Piazza XX Settembre) — the traditional preparation layers the spirits in a small glass with coffee poured over. €4-5.
Getting there: Fano station (Adriatic line, 10min from Pesaro, 30min from Rimini). Stay: €50-95/night. Eat: Osteria dalla Peppa (€25-35 — brodetto di pesce fanese, the local fish stew), + Moretta for "dessert." Combine with: Pesaro (10min — Rossini), Urbino (40min — Palazzo Ducale), Gradara (25min — castle), Senigallia (20min — beach, Rotonda a Mare).