Places
Viewpoint·Easy·Scenic·Popular
San Leo, Marecchia Valley
Marche
San Leo is a medieval town on an isolated rock promontory (639 m) in the Marecchia valley — one of the most spectacular sites in central Italy. The great occultist Cagliostro was imprisoned here from 1791 until his death in 1795. Dante used the San Leo rock as his inspiration for Purgatorio. Machiavelli praised its defences. The Marecchia valley view from the fortress is extraordinary.
Duration
2 hours
Distance
4 km
Elevation
+200 m
Best season
Year-round
Highlights
- Cagliostro imprisoned here 1791–1795
- Dante's model for the mountain of Purgatorio
- Most spectacular fortress rock in central Italy
With your dog
Rock fortress; dogs on leash.
