Oil Mills and Farms

Extra virgin olive oil is one of the most renowned products of Marche, and the area between the coast of Senigallia and its hinterland includes numerous municipalities that are members of the National Association of Oil Towns, thanks to the quality of their productions.

The areas that are mainly devoted to the production of olive oil are Corinaldo, Arcevia and Ostra Vetere, where mills are also available for tasting.
The olive tree has been rooted for centuries in local cultivation; in fact, in addition to national Frantoio and Leccino olives, original local varieties are also widespread: Raggia in the province of Ancona and Rosciola in the Colli Esini.
The different varieties, from producer to producer, lend themselves to a fascinating game of tastes and combinations.

The rural landscape around Senigallia is dotted with farms involved in various agricultural sectors, including dairy and meat production, and open to the public for visits and tastings.
The agricultural traditions of the area are documented by historical archives and in particular by the maps of Fonte Avellana, still considered a cradle of European civilization thanks to the monks who administered the lands in the Middle Ages. The most flourishing area was Frattula or Bruciata di Castel Colonna. Wheat, cereals and woodland crops were produced, and valuable breeds of cattle, horses, pigs, sheep were raised. With the aim of maintaining this tradition, Borgo di Frattula has been defined as a specific area for pig breeding and therefore for the production of pig derivatives. Over time this area has expanded to include some territories of the municipalities of Senigallia, Monterado, Corinaldo, Ripe, Castel Colonna. Pigs are raised in the pigsty of local farms and fattened with natural food grown on the farms.
The regulation for the production of Frattula Salami also establishes what parts are fit for slaughtering and the production methods.

In the hilltop villages, numerous events recall the cycles of agriculture with festivals and celebrations, from Cupramontana to Montecarotto and Staffolo.
As in many other parts of Italy, the cuisine of village festivals in the small towns of Marche recalls their history, retraces the times of castles, fortresses, cathedrals and provides a balance between sea and countryside.

The food and wine culture is alive. Families gather around generous tables, and festive appointments are frequent. Tradition is renewed with wisdom. Openness to the new is always thought out and experienced. Ancient combinations, unusual for our palates but easily justified by the habits of the past, are rediscovered.

Homemade delicacies and specialties can be bought in the numerous farms along the way from Senigallia to Jesi, Arcevia and Fabriano.

The dedicated page lists the most remarkable ones, although visitors will easily find other delicious addresses.