Montefiore Conca, the village at the foot of the fortress

In a document from 1136, Pope Innocent II mentions two churches in Castro Monte Flori, marking the first historical appearance of Montefiore, whose name means Mons Florum – “Mountain of Flowers.” During the barbarian invasions (5th–6th centuries), people sought refuge in the hills. In the 10th century, the arrival of the Lombards encouraged further settlement inland, particularly around the fortress of Monsfloris. In 1295, the Malatesta family conquered Rimini and Montefiore, a rule confirmed in 1322 by Pope John XXII. In 1377, Galeotto Novello Malatesta, known as Belfiore, was born here, followed by Carlo, Galeotto Roberto, and Sigismondo Pandolfo. In 1462, Federico da Montefeltro conquered the village for the Pope, leaving the coat of arms of Pius II. From the 16th to the 18th century, Montefiore alternated between various rulers before passing under the stable control of the Church until 1797, later entering the Cisalpine Republic and following the events of the Italian Risorgimento.

What to see in Montefiore

The Malatesta Fortress, described by Ugo Amati as a “medieval skyscraper reaching for the light,” is the symbol of Malatesta power in Valconca. Expanded around 1337 by Guastafamiglia as his permanent residence, it has preserved much of its original layout despite 15th- and 16th-century modifications. Spacious and refined, it hosted the King of Hungary in 1347. Under Pandolfo Malatesta it became more welcoming, but its greatest splendor came with Sigismondo, an enlightened lord and patron of the arts, who transformed the fortress into both an impregnable stronghold and a noble residence. His boldness, however, led to excommunication by Pope Pius II in 1463; defeated at the siege of Senigallia, he lost his possessions, and the fortress was taken by the Duke of Urbino, beginning its decline. Recent restorations aim to fully recover it, enhancing its value as a national architectural treasure.

Beyond the fortress, the village also offers the Church of San Paolo, the Church of the Hospital, and the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Bonora, important for sacred art and popular devotion, with works by Bernardino Dolci and religious testimonies from the 15th and 16th centuries.

Events and traditions

Montefiore Conca boasts a calendar of events blending art, tradition, and nature. Romagna Marzuléna, at the Malatesta Theater, stages comedies from March to April in the evocative 19th-century venue. The Good Friday Procession celebrates centuries of devotion with costumes and roles passed down through families. In July, Rocca di Luna lights up the village during full-moon nights with music, scents, and tastings. MontefiorEstate combines art and nature on summer weekends. In autumn, Mangiarsano and the Chestnut and Olive Festivals offer food trails and markets along the historic walls. The Cultural Autumn brings music and readings to the Malatesta Theater. In December, the Living Nativity transforms the village into an open-air stage, with actors animating the castle and streets, creating a magical Christmas experience for all ages.

What to see around Montefiore Conca

The surroundings of Montefiore Conca reveal historic villages, castles, and unique natural landscapes. About 20 km away lies Rimini, with its Roman and medieval center, the Arch of Augustus, the Tiberius Bridge, and the famous Riviera beaches. A few kilometers away, Santarcangelo di Romagna enchants with its caves, towers, and lively squares. The village of San Leo, with its imposing fortress perched on a rocky spur, offers breathtaking views. Verucchio, an ancient Malatesta stronghold, preserves its fortress and medieval alleys. The Valconca and Marano Park provide trails through hills, woods, and picturesque villages, ideal for trekking and walks. Finally, about 30 km away, Gradara amazes with its medieval castle, famous for the legend of Paolo and Francesca, completing an itinerary of history, art, and nature in the Romagna Riviera.

Montefiore Conca is a jewel of history and tradition, where medieval charm and cultural vitality meet, offering visitors an unforgettable journey through time.

photo credits Pecold