High on a ridge above the northern slopes of the attractive valley of the Tesino river stands the small hill town of Ripatransone. True, it's not a major site but if you want a
morning away from the nearby coast towns it makes a pleasant outing.
The crumbling old town walls that greet you set the tone - the place has yet to suffer invasive restoration. Its warm pink brick is much the same as it's been for centuries.
The first surprise is the relative grandeur of its buildings for the modest size of the place. During the 16th century
the town experienced a period of prosperity and prestige, and was elevated to the status of city with its own cathedral.
The town's uniqueness, however, comes in the form of a tiny alleyway - it is only 43 centimetres wide and the narrowest in all Italy. And there are plenty of other tight
lanes to explore.
Passing back out of its crumbling walls, pause to admire the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
If you are heading back to Grottammare down by the sea, you can enjoy a most spectacular drive along the ridges above the Tesino valley.
|