Top of the World
The ancient medieval village lies on the Via Emilia 10 km north of Rimini and 20 km south of Cesena. In a straight line to the sea are the beaches of Rimini North and Bellaria Igea Marina, from which it is 13 km away. For the uninitiated, Santarcangelo di Romagna stands on a small hill just behind Rimini with the high-sounding name, Monte Giove. Some claim that this appellation derives from the famous vine, which would also have its own enormous appeal if it were true, but there is no firm evidence for this. Between ascents and descents, steps and embedded houses, Santarcangelo is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque villages in all of Romagna. It is crossed by two rivers, the Uso and the Marecchia. The town hosts "Santarcangelo dei Teatri," an international festival dedicated to the contemporary scene. Performances take place in the streets and squares of the town. It produces and promotes theater and dance, with special attention to interdisciplinary experiences and the dynamics of international cooperation. Started in 1971 with a strong political impetus, the Santarcangelo Festival was called "International Festival of Piazza Theater." Past the Fountain of Tonino Guerra, a famous citizen of Sant'arcangelo, go up to the upper part of the town step by step on the cobblestones of the streets. Its structure is characterized by a fortification typical of medieval installations. Narrow alleys overlooking small squares intertwine with noble palaces and houses perched one on top of the other. The romantic side of the village is hidden in the many poems installed on the walls that line the narrow streets. Here is what not to miss in Santarcangelo di Romagna: - Ganganelli Square with its triumphal arch and the Pine Cone Fountain - The Bell of Santarcangelo - The Malatesta Fortress, symbol of the power of the Malatesta, an ancient Romagna family.
