Sant’Agata Feltria, fairy tale village in Romagna
In the heart of the Romagna hinterland, surrounded by nature and rolling hills, Sant Agata Feltria is an enchanting destination. The journey to reach it winds through narrow, twisting roads, but once you arrive, the village’s charm immediately captures your heart. Its position and architecture truly make it a Fairy Tale Village!
Hidden among the gentle hills of Montefeltro, in the Rimini hinterland, this picturesque village stretches between the Savio and Marecchia river valleys. Sant’Agata Feltria stands as an ancient jewel, preserving historical treasures and offering captivating natural trails dotted with sanctuaries, churches, and convents.
Founded possibly in the pre-Roman period, Sant’Agata Feltria was home to ancient tribes of farmers, shepherds, and hunters who settled in the forests of the Apennines. Over time, noble families left their mark through remarkable architectural and artistic works, further enhancing the village’s historical significance.
Every step here reveals something fascinating, making it astonishing that this place remains off the beaten tourist path! Initially, I had no idea what to expect from Sant Agata Feltria, but I was pleasantly surprised by its magical atmosphere, just waiting to be explored.
Sant Agata Feltria, the medieval village of Petrella Guidi (which I will also cover in this article), and Pennabilli were the highlights of a slow-paced January weekend filled with scenic walks and the irresistible taste of truffles.
Despite the cold weather and biting wind, the breathtaking views and charming villages made every shiver worthwhile, turning the experience into a mix of beautiful emotions tied to our beloved Emilia-Romagna.
Even after exploring this region extensively over the years, it continues to surprise me with hidden gems and unforgettable memories!
COSA TROVERAI IN QUESTO POST:
Here’s what to see and do in Sant Agata Feltria:
Rocca Fregoso of Sant Agata Feltria
The Rocca Fregoso is the crown jewel of the Fairy Tale Village, the landmark monument of the area. It sits atop the Sasso del Lupo (or Pietra Anellaria), majestically overlooking the valley from its natural cliff.
As someone deeply fascinated by castles and medieval villages rich in history, I couldn’t miss this one—especially since it’s known as “The Castle of Fairy Tales”!
Built around the year 1000 by the Cavalca family, the Rocca changed hands among several noble families until Federico da Montefeltro transformed it into a princely residence in the 15th century. Through the marriage of his daughter to Agostino Fregoso, the castle became part of the Fregoso family, who further renovated it in the 16th century into a noble residence. Over the centuries, it served as a convent, school, prison, and private residence.
In 1974, the Museum “Rocca delle Fiabe” was established by the Pro Loco Association to preserve historical documents, antique furniture, and artwork. Today, the Rocca stands as a tangible testament to the evolving history of Sant Agata Feltria.
The Museum “La Rocca delle Fiabe” (Fairy Tale Fortress)
Designed by renowned pedagogue Antonio Faeti, “La Rocca delle Fiabe” (Fairy Tale Fortress) is a one-of-a-kind project in Italy. Established through collaboration between the municipality, the Pro Loco Association, the province, and the region, the museum is dedicated to the study, preservation, and interpretation of fairy tales.
A permanent exhibition that breathes new life into Rocca Fregoso, it designates the castle as the true home of fairy tales. Divided into four thematic rooms, the museum offers an immersive experience using communication, technology, and craftsmanship to explore the significance of fairy tales in the cultural and collective imagination.
The Tour of the Fountains
Sant’Agata Feltria boasts three distinct fountains, each infused with artistic touches by Tonino Guerra and Marco Bravura, a renowned Ravenna-based artist.
The Snail Fountain, a symbol of patience and wisdom, is a vibrant mosaic piece created by Bravura. It gracefully winds up a small staircase at the entrance of the village, blending seamlessly into the urban landscape.
The Moon in the Well, an ancient 19th-century fountain carved into a niche below the castle, was restored and illuminated with celestial elements by the artist in 1997.
Footprints of Memory, an artwork by Bravura, is located on Via Benucci. Formerly a livestock trough, it has been transformed into a colorful oriental-inspired mosaic, showcasing the artist’s creative journey.
The Truffle Ecomuseum
With over 3,000 hectares of forest, Sant’Agata Feltria is set in a pristine natural habitat, ideal for truffle growth due to its climate and rich biodiversity.
The Ecomuseum, supported by the Municipality and Pro Loco, highlights the deep connection between truffles and their environment. Through images, films, and artifacts, visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of this culinary treasure.
Where to Eat in Sant Agata Feltria
If you’re a truffle lover, don’t miss Ristorante Antenna del Morino, just five minutes from the village center in Monte Benedetto.
Here, the menu revolves around mushrooms, truffles, and wild game. The intimate dining room, reminiscent of a medieval banquet hall, features a crackling fireplace and long wooden tables. We indulged in tagliatelle with black truffle, guinea fowl with chestnuts, and a delicious selection of homemade desserts—all authentic, satisfying, and affordable!
Nature Trails
Sant’Agata Feltria offers breathtaking landscapes, making it a paradise for motorcyclists, cyclists, and hikers.
The St. Francis Walk, leading from Rimini to La Verna, passes through this untouched region. Here, pilgrims experience a profound connection with nature while retracing the steps of St. Francis in a journey that blends history, mysticism, and gastronomy.
The Medieval Village of Petrella Guidi
A final must-see: Petrella Guidi, a charming, little-known medieval village just eight kilometers from Sant’Agata Feltria on the way to Pennabilli.
This hidden gem preserves its authentic charm, with ancient white-stone houses, cobbled alleys, and historic ovens. The grand archway, adorned with the coats of arms of the Holy See, the Malatesta, and the Counts Oliva, marks the entrance.
During our winter visit, the biting cold and icy wind heightened the village’s mystical aura, creating a picture-perfect moment in this timeless place.
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Spending a weekend in Sant Agata Feltria is a must for those seeking slow travel, stunning landscapes, and hidden treasures. Don’t forget to visit Petrella Guidi, a truly enchanting spot where history and beauty merge, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Romagna’s Fairy Tale Village.
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