Unravel the beauty of Cingoli (Marche), this year’s winner for best Italian borgo!
After months of anticipation and several rounds of voting, the verdict is in: Cingoli, in the Marche region, has been crowned Italy’s Borgo dei Borghi 2026, also known as the contest for the most beautiful small town to visit this year.
Let’s discover the charm of this hidden gem in central Italy!
Cultural heritage
Perched on a hilltop in the heart of the Marche, Cingoli is often called the “Balcony of the Marche” for its sweeping views stretching from the Apennines to the Adriatic Sea. Its historic center preserves an authentic medieval atmosphere, with quiet piazzas, noble palazzi, and art treasures that tell centuries of history. Far from the crowds, it offers a rare sense of place, where Italy’s heritage can be experienced at a slower, more intimate pace. Check out the famous painting from Lorenzo Lotto, to be found in the church of Saint Domenico
Hiking and walks
Surrounding Cingoli, the rolling hills of the Marche open into a landscape of woods, fields, and sweeping views. For those who enjoy walking, the area offers a network of scenic trails, including the Bosco delle Tassinete, a circular route known for its remarkable concentration of yew trees. Along this path, visitors can also reach the “Cristo delle Marche,” a striking sculpture by Nazzareno Rocchetti overlooking a breathtaking panorama.
Spiritual landscape
Just a short distance from Cingoli lies one of Italy’s most extraordinary hidden gems: the Tempio del Valadier. Nestled within a natural cave in the Gola della Rossa area, this neoclassical sanctuary seems to emerge from the rock itself, creating a striking dialogue between architecture and nature. Once a place of refuge and contemplation, today it offers visitors a truly unique experience, where silence, beauty, and spirituality come together in a setting unlike any other.
Contact us to plan your journey!
