Villa Vitali
Located along the avenue that connects the coast to the historic center, Villa Vitali is a beautiful nineteenth-century residence surrounded by a historic park of great botanical value.
Built in 1267 by the Venetian Lorenzo Tiepolo, podestà of Fermo. The fortress, quadrangular in shape with a keep and guelf battlements, represents a characteristic fortification intended to defend the ports of the Marche coastline.
The Rocca Tiepolo is the main symbol of the medieval past of Porto San Giorgio, testifying to the ancient strategic importance of this area and its close link with the nearby city of Fermo. Built on one of the highest points of the settlement, the fortification served as a crucial stronghold for monitoring and defending the territory, protecting the port from constant threats from pirates and incursions by Saracens.
Its construction dates back to 1267 at the behest of the Venetian Lorenzo Tiepolo, then podestà of Fermo, from which the Rocca takes its name. Over the centuries, the complex has come under the control of various figures linked to local history, undergoing modifications and additions that have shaped its current appearance.
The fortification extends over an area of about 1000 square meters and features an irregular pentagonal layout. Its perimeter is marked by five towers connected by a powerful defensive wall, which surrounds the massive central keep, the last defensive bastion and main observation point towards the sea. Today, this historically rich place has changed its function: its ancient walls often host evocative cultural events, transforming the old fortress into an exceptional stage for concerts and theatrical performances.
Rocca Tiepolo is located in the upper part of Porto San Giorgio’s historic centre, in Via Leonardo da Vinci. It is easy to reach by car via the A14 motorway, taking the Porto San Giorgio–Fermo exit, or along the SS16 Adriatica road, following signs for the historic centre and the fortress.
The reference railway station is Porto S. Giorgio–Fermo, located on the Adriatic railway line. From the station, the historic centre can be reached on foot or by local transport; to reach Rocca Tiepolo, it is advisable to continue on foot if you are used to uphill routes, or by taxi/local transport. Some bus stops are located just a few minutes’ walk from the fortress.
Visitors can use parking areas in the town centre and nearby streets, always checking local signs, availability and any temporary restrictions, especially in summer or during events.