MARCHES

The region of Le Marche, or Marches is situated in central Italy. The provinces include Ancona, the capital, Macerata, Pesaro-Urbino, Fermo, and Ascoli Piceno. The name of Le Marche is literally the plural of marca, meaning march. This is a reference to the many ancient ones that take place in this region. It borders Abruzzo, Lazio, Umbria, Tuscany, and Emilia-Romagna. It also shares a border with the republic of San Marino. There is a long coastline on the Adriatic Sea. Additionally, the region has mountainous terrain. It has much natural beauty and is a hidden gem amongst the central Italian regions. Tuscany and Umbria are more touristic but Marches has plenty to offer as well. This is a great place to pick up a pair of luxurious Italian shoes because it has a heavy tradition of shoe-making.