Montecassiano, Medieval hilltop municipality in Macerata Province, Italy
Montecassiano is a hilltop municipality in Macerata Province that features narrow stone streets and traditional buildings surrounded by ancient defensive walls. The settlement occupies the high ground overlooking the surrounding countryside, creating a distinctive layered appearance across the slopes.
The settlement emerged during the Middle Ages as a strategic location and grew into a commercial hub following the construction of Palazzo dei Priori in the 13th century. The defensive walls were built to protect the community and maintain its control over the surrounding region.
The Church of San Marco presents architectural elements from the 14th century, while the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria della Misericordia dates back to the 12th century.
The municipality is accessible through regional bus services connecting to major transportation routes in the area. Wear sturdy footwear when visiting, as the steep streets and uneven paths on the hillside require good footing.
The territory includes four separate subdivisions named Sant'Egidio, Sambucheto, Vallecascia, and Vissani, each maintaining its own identity within the municipality. These enclaves offer different perspectives on local building traditions and settlement patterns.
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