From Roman times, the only surviving tourist attractions in Ancona are Trajan’s Arch and the ruins of the ancient amphitheater. Other interesting sights not seen everywhere are the city’s unusual beach and the artificial quarantine island.
Miscellaneous tourist Attractions Ancona
Arch of Trajan
Considered the symbol of Ancona, the Arco di Traiano (“Arch of Trajan”) stands near the city’s harbor. The 14-meter-high arch dates back to the 2nd century and was erected in honor of the emperor who had the city’s port made larger.
Roman Amphitheater
Ancona’s Anfiteatro Romano (“Roman Amphitheater”), along with Trajan’s Arch, is the only remaining monument in the city dating back to Roman times. Previously, a Greek acropolis stood on the site and later a palace (the Palazzo Bonarelli) was built on top.
Cittadella del Sangallo
The Cittadella del Sangallo is a 16th century fortress on a hill in Ancona. Along with the more famous Rocca Paolina of Perugia, this citadel is among the most important military structures of the 16th century. From the park located within the walls of this citadel one has a beautiful panorama of the city.
Arco Clementino
The Arco Clementino is a neo-classical arch. It is one of the many buildings in Ancona designed by the originally Dutch architect Vanvitelli. The statue of Pope Clement XII that should have been on the neo-classical arch was eventually placed in the Piazza del Plebiscito.
Fontana del Calamo
The Fontana del Calamo is also known as the Fontana delle Tredici Cannelle. The original version was destroyed in the early 16th century, but the current version is based on a design from the same century. The large statue in the middle of the fountain refers to the coat of arms of the city.
Lazzaretto
The Lazzaretto is a building designed by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli on an artificial island off the coast, where people with contagious diseases were quarantined. It is also known as the Mole Vanvitelliana. The entrance to the Lazzaretto is formed by the Porta Pia, built in the 18th century.
Passetto
Passetto is the name given to their beach by the inhabitants of the city. It is one kilometer long and is flanked by white cliffs, in which are carved so-called caves, now used as vacation homes. The district where this beach is located is also called Passetto.