| Description: |
It has been referred to as the ´Balcony of the Sibillini´ for its majestic view which extands over the immense territory below, a piece of land that stratches from Mount Conero to the Sibillini mountains, down to the ‘Gran Sasso’. Rich in history and traditions, San Ginesio is reckoned to be among the most important artistic centres of the Marche region, rich in history and traditions. Very few are the evidences of its probable Roman days and the origins of its name seem to be connected with the patron saint of the same name, who is also protector of those involved in show-business. The present urban layout, the magnificent town entrance gates and their still existing watchtower, as well as large sections of the city walls, all date back to the time when the small village became a self-governing municipal entity of the communal Italy of the time, getting rid of Fermo’s interference. San Ginesio could not, however, avoid becoming a target for the expansionists plans of the powerful family Da Varano from Camerino, under whose rule it remained until the XVI century.
It is to this time that the episode of the 300 citizens dates back. During a period of indipendence from Camerino, these citizens were believed to have taken part in the plot against the Da Varano family; sent into exile, they took refuge in Siena. As a result of the Sienese themselves pleading the citizens´ cause before the S.Ginesio communal magistrates, they were eventually allowed to return to San Ginesio symbolically carrying a still surviving wooden crucifix. A commemoration of this episode called “Ritorno degli esuli” is held once every three years.
Text by Fabio Santilli
Translation by Gianfranco Martorano |