Castel Colonna

Castel Colonna is the “sentinel” of the valley. Of the three villages of Trecastelli, it is the one that has kept its medieval fortification soul most visible. Small, compact and defended by its walls, it takes its name from the noble Colonna family (yes, the same as the Roman Popes) who ruled it for centuries. It is the ideal place for those seeking the intimate atmosphere of the “walled village”, where each stone tells of ancient battles between Malatesta and Montefeltro.

1. The Defence Bulwark: The Malatesta Tower The undisputed symbol of the village is the Malatesta Tower.

History: Built in the fifteenth century, it bears the name of the powerful Malatesta family of Rimini, who dominated these lands before the Colonna family. The tower was not only decorative, but a real tool of war to control the Cesano valley.
The Architecture: Massive and imposing, with its typical battlements and corbels (the small arches under the top), still dominates the entrance to the historic centre today. It is the perfect backdrop for a photo that captures the essence of the Marche Middle Ages.

2. A Shell Village: The Historic Center Entering the village through the arch, you will find yourself in a collected and silent environment.

The Structure: Castel Colonna retains the typical “spindle” or almond-shaped plan of hilltop castles. The houses huddle together along the main street, protected by the outer wall that today serves as a panoramic balcony.
The Church of San Mauro Abate: It is the spiritual heart of the town. Inside, it is worth a visit to admire the altarpiece depicting the Madonna and Child with Saints, a fine example of local sacred art that testifies to the community’s devotion over the centuries.

3. The Balcony on the Valley If you love the views, Castel Colonna does not disappoint.

The View: Thanks to its strategic position (about 125 meters above sea level), from the walkways of the walls the gaze extends freely over the lower Cesano Valley up to the Adriatic Sea. It is particularly striking at sunset, when the golden light illuminates the checkerboard cultivated fields surrounding the village.

4. Gastronomy and Traditions: The Taste of Simplicity Here the cuisine is the frank one of the hinterland, linked to the rhythms of the land.

The Cured Meats: The tradition of pork processing is very strong. Castel Colonna produces the highest quality artisanal cured meats, often cured in the village’s fresh cellars.
La Sagra: Historically, the town is linked to the Porchetta Festival (which often revolves around or involves neighboring villages), a time when the alleys fill with the unmistakable aroma of fennel and roast meat. But it is also a land of wine, with the surrounding vineyards producing a savoury, mineral Verdicchio.

Logistic Tips for the visit

How long it takes: Castel Colonna is a miniature jewel. In 30-45 minutes you can visit it all at your leisure, enjoying the walk on the walls and a coffee in the local club.
The Pairing: It is the perfect stop to insert between a visit to Senigallia (10-15 minutes by car) and a trip to Corinaldo (one of the most Beautiful Villages in Italy, very close).
Fun fact: The name “Cittombaro” (or Tomb of Senigallia) was the ancient medieval toponym, probably linked to the conformation of the land or to old fortifications. You will find that the local elders are proud of this ancient history and often still call the town by its old name.