Ostra Vetere

Ostra Vetere, known until the last century as Montenovo (a name you’ll still hear often used by locals), is an Orange Flag village that dominates the valley like a natural balcony. Compared to its “sister” Ostra, the atmosphere here is more intimate and vertical, drawn by the unmistakable spire of its neo-Gothic bell tower that towers over the hills like a beacon for those arriving from the coast. It is the perfect destination for those seeking the fusion between deep Roman roots and the typical sweetness of living in the hills of the Marche region.

1. The Symbol in the Skyline: Santa Maria di Piazza If you arrive from the valley, you will recognize it immediately: the profile of the town is dominated by the neo-Gothic spire of the church of Santa Maria di Piazza.

The Bell Tower: It is not a simple tower, but a bold work from the early 1900s that seems to defy gravity. It is the visual reference point for the entire territory.
The Sacred Treasure: Inside the church (or in the nearby church of Santa Lucia, depending on the opening) the remains of the Blessed Maria Crocifissa Satellico, a mystical figure very important for local devotion, are venerated.

2. The Roman Roots: The Archaeological Area “The Walls” While Ostra is medieval, Ostra Vetere guards the “mother” of both: the ancient Roman city of Ostra.

What you will see: In the Pongelli area, downstream from the town, are the remains of the ancient Roman municipality (“Le Muracce”). Excavations have brought to light traces of the theatre and public buildings. It is an evocative place where the silence of the countryside mixes with thousand-year history.
The connection: Many artifacts, including splendid statues, are preserved in the museum in the center, creating an ideal bridge between the “dead” city downstream and the living one on the hill.

3. Culture and Curiosities: The Museum Center and the House of Terra The cultural heart beats in the ancient Monastery of the Poor Clares, now transformed into the “Terra di Montenovo” Museum Center.

Not just paintings: In addition to the Pinacoteca, here you will find the Antiquarium with Roman artefacts and a historic Franciscan library. It’s a dive into the local culture concentrated in a single building.
A rare gem: Just outside the center, ask for directions to the House of Earth. It is one of the few remaining original rural dwellings in the Marche built entirely of raw earth and straw (our grandparents’ poor architecture), perfectly preserved. A little gem of peasant engineering.

4. Gastronomy and Events: Montenovo in Festa A tavola, Ostra Vetere celebrates the robustness of the inland flavors.

The Event: If Ostra has the night of fear, Ostra Vetere has “Montenovo in Festa” (often in late January or summer with summer versions), an event that reopens the old cellars of the historic center. It’s the best time to understand the soul of the country: you eat in the warehouses of historic buildings, in the heat, among wine and steaming dishes.
What to eat: The tradition of the threshing floor reigns here. Oca (often the protagonist of dedicated festivals) is definitely worth trying, cooked roasted or as a condiment for tagliatelle, accompanied by a good glass of Lacrima di Morro d’Alba or Verdicchio.

Logistic Tips for the visit

How long it takes: A couple of hours is enough for the historic center and the museum. Add an hour if you want to visit the archaeological area or the House of Earth (check opening hours first, often seasonal or by reservation).
La Chicca: The best time to photograph the town is at sunset from the “Arceviese” road: the sun descends just behind the profile of the bell tower, giving it a perfect postcard silhouette